Hasidism, the last of the Jewish mystical movements, created a characteristic wordless vocal melody which is called in Hebrew nigun. These nigunim are often used as an extension of the existing liturgy, and serve as a prelude or postlude to the traditional prayers; there may even be devotional gatherings during which only these nigunim are heard.

Hasidism originated in Eastern Europe about 1750. It spread quickly over the Jewish diaspora in the Slavic countries, and is still alive in many communities such as Jerusalem, Safad, London, New York and elsewhere. It is the latest, but not the sole mystical movement that attracted masses of the people. Disastrous persecutions were often followed by a withdrawal of the Jews into an inner life beyond grim reality.