The Duties of the Heart

The Duties of the Heart (Chovot HaLevavot) is a work by Bahya ibn Paquda, first published in Arabic in the 11th century, and later translated into Hebrew and other languages. It is one of the foundational texts of Jewish ethics and philosophy, offering a spiritual and intellectual guide to the inner life of faith.

Written during the flourishing of medieval Andalusian culture, Bahya’s work bridges the rationalism of philosophy with the deep moral introspection of religious devotion, setting forth what he called the “duties of the heart” — inward obligations that complement the “duties of the limbs,” or outward religious acts. This 1909 translation by Edwin Collins, issued as part of the Wisdom of the East series, presents Bahya’s timeless reflections to an English-speaking audience.

It explores themes of sincerity, humility, trust in God, and the pursuit of truth, written in a manner that still resonates with readers interested in spiritual philosophy, mysticism, and ethical religion. The text encourages a reflective and disciplined approach to inner life, reminding readers that intellectual understanding and moral character must work together in the service of divine wisdom. Bahya ibn Paquda’s influence extended well beyond Jewish thought, shaping later medieval philosophy and mystical writings.