This episode delves into the Vilna Gaon's criticism of Beshtian Chassidus, focusing on accusations of revealing explanations in Torah against Halacha and possible links to changes in prayer.

In this episode of Gaon, Rabbi Arnie Wittenstein explores the Vilna Gaon's nuanced approach toward the Chassidim in the 1770s, questioning whether his opposition to Beshtian Chassidus affected his personal interactions with them.

Rabbi Arnie Wittenstein, a Torah scholar and historian, discusses the background of the Brody Cherem in Gaon #19, focusing on the theory that opposition to Beshtian Chassidus began in 1781 and the involvement of Maskilim in the conflict between Chassidim and Misnagdim, particularly exploring the role of Yisroel of Zamosz.