Hasidism, Chasidism1. the beliefs and practices of a mystical Jewish sect, founded in Poland about 1750, characterized by an emphasis on prayer, religious zeal, and joy.2. the beliefs and practices of a pious sect founded in the 3rd century B.C. to resist Hellenizing tendencies and to promote strict observance of Jewish laws and rituals. Also Assideanism. ? Hasidic, adj. ? Hasidim, n. pi.See also: Judaism-Ologies & -Isms. Copyright 2008 The Gale Group, Inc. All rights reserved.