R. Zevi Elimelech Shapiro of Dynow (1785–1841), hasidic zaddik in Dynow, Galicia, often known after his main work as “the author of Benei Yissakhar” (Zolkiew, 1850). He was a disciple of R. Zevi Hirsch of Zhidachov, R. Jacob Isaac “ha-Hozeh” (“the seer”) of Lublin, and the Maggid of Kozienice. R. Zevi Elimelech served as rabbi in Strzyzow, Halicz, Dynow, and Munkacs. His total opposition to Haskalah and philosophy was evidenced in both his devotion to Kabbalah as the essence of Judaism and his statement that “there is no knowledge, either in the realm of science or philosophy, which is not alluded to in the Torah [which is higher than the intellect]” (Benei Yissakhar, Sec. 2:88). He considered philosophical enquiry a waste of time and of soul. Rational reason should not be sought for the mitzvot, but they should be observed with love, as divine decrees, whether rational or not, without questioning or seeking proofs.

על שמות, כינויים, מושגים ועניינים בקבלה.