Der Nister was a master of Yiddish literature, whose works delved into the depths of Kabbalah and symbolism. Despite a traditional religious education, his writing drew from secular ideas and Jewish mysticism. His style is characterized by an intense use of symbols, a reflection of his pseudonym, 'The Hidden One.' While known for symbolic works, his masterpiece is a sprawling family saga that leans towards naturalism. Declared reactionary by the Soviet regime, he ceased publishing original works, only to return after WWII to chronicle the persecution of Jewish communities, ultimately meeting his end in the Gulag.
Der Roman "Die Brüder Maschber" des Schriftstellers Der Nister gilt als das jiddischsprachige Pendant zu den "Buddenbrooks" von Thomas Mann. Auch hier geht es um eine Welt am Abgrund und den Untergang einer angesehenen Familie. Unter der realistischen Oberfläche verband sein Autor Der Nister das Werk insgeheim mit der jüdischen Mystik und ihren uralten Symbolen.