THE BAAL SHEM TOV'S WALKS

From Rabbi Yisroel Yaakov Klapholz, “Tales of the Baal Shem Tov” (Pe’er HaSefer), Vol. I, p. 192.

The Baal Shem Tov’s Walks

Reb Yisroel used to take long walks in the mountains to be alone with his Creator. The high mountains were separated by a deep gorge. One day, as Reb Yisroel was taking a walk, deeply engrossed in thoughts of exalted things, he neared the edge of the cliff, unaware of the impending danger. There was a band of robbers looking on, certain that he would be dashed to pieces within seconds. As they were watching breathlessly, they saw the opposite cliff draw near until it touched its neighbor, permitting Reb Yisroel to walk unaware from one edge to the other. As soon as he had crossed, the mountains separated again, and resumed their former position. On his return trip, the mountains again drew close to let him cross and then again returned to their places. This happened each time he passed this place. (Shivchei Baal Shem Tov)