1 CROWN HEIGHTS Newspaper ~July 4, 2008 כאן צוה ה’ את הברכה CommunityNewspaper

פרשת חקת | ואש חדש תמוז , תשס”ח | בס”ד weekly vOL. i | NO 33 July 4, 2008 | Tammuz 1, 5768

YECHI HAMELECH

WE WANT MOSHIACH NOW CROWN HEIGHTS WELCOMES ALL SHLUCHIM AND GUESTS HERE FOR GIMMEL TAMMUZ the Mayer and Lillian Nigri School for Boys tHE sHLUCHIM oNLINE sCHOOL WILL HONOR PHILANTHROPIST mAYER nIGRI, HIS SON jOSEPH AND wife Maia AND his son david FOR THE ENDOWMENT OF THE NEW Mayer and Lillian Nigri School for Boys 2 CROWN HEIGHTS Newspaper ~July 4, 2008 The Vaad Hakohol Visiting and Praying at the Resting Place of a Tzadik By Shlomo Segal because Tzadikim are beloved after Neshomos, the destruction of the Bais the body. The Neshomo is forever and their passing, more than during their Hamikdosh did not take place, etc. especially the Neshomo of a Tzadik. Member of the lifetime.” From this we derive the great From this we derive that the resting Bais Din of Crown “Another explanation is that the benefit of prayer at the resting places of places of Tzadikim and especially of Heights Neshomo of every Chossid and Tzadikim. the nosi of the generation has the same mekushar is part of the Neshomo of Question: quality as prayer in during the We also find that the great Poskim the Tzadik, who is an encompass- times of the Bais Hamikdosh. What is the source wrote many reasons why it was good ing Neshama (Neshama Klalis). His and the unique to visit and pray at the resting places It is also noteworthy to mention what Neshomo is compared to the head, in benefit of visiting of Tzadikim.The Maharil (in Hilchos the wrote in the Igros Vol. 3 comparison to individual Neshomos and praying at the Taanis pp. 270) wrote, “Because the pg. 458: as cited in chapt. 2. resting places of Tzadikim? resting place of Tzadikim is sacred “That which he requested that his name “Although every limb receives life from and pure, and the prayer is accepted in Answer: be mentioned at the resting place of my the Neshomo, the beginning point particular when on a holy site.” father-in-law, the Rebbe--I will fulfill of the Neshomo is the head and the We find many places in the that An additional reason for visiting and his request. brain, and then the life and energy is address at length the great benefit of vis- praying at the resting place of Tzadikim distributed to every limb. iting the resting places of Tzadikim. “Regarding what he wrote--that he is given by the Shelo (Tractate of Rosh has no understanding in the matter “Similarly, it is with a Chossid and Some examples: Hashana pg. 69c): “In order that the of praying at the resting place--in the Rebbe. When the head is healthy and Tzadikim should awaken pity on us, as Tractate Sota 34b, “When Kalev the same way that when you eat, drink, and strong, it contains the life and energy in the story of Rebbe Meni who prayed son of Yefuna was sent by Moshe on the sleep, surely you do not think prior to of every limb. In order that the limbs at his father’s resting place, and as Kalev mission to spy on Israel, he prayed in your eating, etc. how this affects the should also be healthy, there needs to the son of Yefuna prayed at the resting Chevron at the resting place of the Avos body and the soul, and nevertheless be the limb’s “hiskashrus” connection place of the Avos.” in Meoras Hamachpela in Chevron.” one continues doing all these activi- with the complete head, that the veins In this matter, we also find a Sicha that ties everyday, although he does not and nerves which connect the head with Tractate Bava Metzia 85b, “One of the the Rebbe spoke on 1954. understand how it works. It is the same the limbs should be open, and then the sages when he became blind went to The Rebbe explained that the resting regarding the matter of praying at the designated life and energy can be drawn pray at the resting place of Reb Chiya place of the Tzadikim is considered resting place of a Tzadik. down to the specific limb. and was cured. as Eretz Yisroel. One who prays there “To respond in short: when people came “This is the general principle of Tractate Taanis 23b, “Some people has the quality of a prayer in Israel. to the Rebbe for a brocho [before the hiskashrus of a Chossid to a Rebbe; were torturing Rebbe Meni the son of The Rebbe added that based on the histalkus], they did not come to him through this a Chossid receives every- Rebbe Yona. He visited the resting place Sefer Pelach Horimon from Reb Hillel because of the quality of his body but thing that he needs physically and of his father and said, “Father, father, Paritcher where he quotes the Alter the quality of his Neshomo. The entire spiritually.” the people are torturing me.” One day Rebbe statement that for the great concept of petira is relevant only in these people rode their horses and while passing the resting place of his father, their hooves stuck to the ground, and they could not move.They realized their Beis Din of Crown Heights actions against Rebbe Meni had caused this and committed themselves not to 390A Kingston Avenue, , NY torture him anymore.” Tel- 718~604~8000 Fax: 718~771~6000 It is also told in Tractate Sota 14a (Ayin Yaakov version), “Rebbe Chomo the son of Chanina said, “Why was the Rabbi A. Osdoba: ❖ Monday to Thursday 10:30AM - 11:30AM at 390A Kingston Ave. resting place of Moshe concealed? ☎Tel. 718-604-8000 ext.37 or 718-604-0770 Sunday-Thursday 9:30 PM-11:00PM ~ Because it was revealed and known to Hashem that the Bais Hamikdosh Friday 2:30PM-4:30 PM ☎Tel. (718) - 771-8737 would be destroyed and Yidden would be exiled, and they might visit Moshe’s Rabbi Y. Heller is available daily 10:30 to 11:30am ~ 2:00pm to 3:00pm at resting place and cry and beg Moshe. 788 # 210 718~604~8827 ❖ & after 8:00pm 718~756~4632 They would tell him, ‘Moshe Rabenu, stand up in prayer for us.’ Moshe ☎ would stand up and nullify the decree Rabbi Y. Schwei, 4:00pm to 9:00pm at 796 Montgomery St. 718~773~3146 Rabbi Y. Raitport is available by appointment. ☎ 718~604~8000 ext 39 CommunityNewspaper Rabbi Y. Zirkind: ☎ 718~604~8000 ext 39 ☎ ❖ ☎ 392 Kingston Avenue Rabbi S. Segal: 718~604~8000 ext 39 Sun ~Thu 5:30pm -9:00pm or 718 -360-7110 Brooklyn, NY 11225 Rabbi Bluming is available Sunday - Thursday, 3 -4:00pm at 472 Malebone St. Published & edited weekly by the Vaad Hakohol of Crown Heights. ☎ 718 - 778-1679 , Rosh Hakohol ☎ ❖ Dr. Tzvi (Harvey) Lang, Chairman Rabbi Y. Osdoba 718~604~8000 ext 38 Sun~Thu: 10:0am -11:30am ~ Fri 10:am - 1:00 pm or Rabbi Plotkin, Secretary ☎ 718 -604-0770 Layout: SimplyUnique ([email protected]) All material in this paper has been copyrighted. It Rabbi S. Chirik: ☎ 718~604~8000 ext 38 ❖ Sun~Thu: 5:00pm to 9:00pm is the exclusive property of this newspaper, unless otherwise attributed., and cannot be reproduced without the consent of the publisher. Composition responsibility: This newspaper will not be liable for errors appearing in advertising, beyond the cost of the space occupied by the error. Advertiser assumes responsibility for errors in telephone orders. Erev Shabbos Motzei Shabbos All advertisement designed and prepared by the CHCommunity Newspaper are the property of the Gut Shabbos newspaper and cannot be reproduced without the 8:12 9:19' consent of the publisher July 4, 2008 ~ crOWN heights Newspaper 3

The Rebbe's Sicha Parshas Chukas 5743

Published and copyright © by Sichos In stances change. This is not the case be spread with mesirus nefesh, self- released from prison and sent to exile English with a chok. Since the law is totally sacrifice. The portion of parshas Chukas in the city of Kastrama, he discovered beyond reason and must be performed associated with the 3rd of Tammuz that the train would arrive on Shabbos. We can derive an additional lesson from for no other reason than the fact that (for the third day of the week) stresses He notified them that, if necessary, he the weekly portion, Chukas. A G-d has so commanded, it remains this point. There it is related how, in would remain in jail for Shabbos, but chok is a type of law beyond intellectual constant despite various changing response to the request of the Jewish under no circumstances would he arrive understanding. It is for this reason circumstances. people for water and G-d’s command to on Shabbos. that the law of the red heifer, which speak to the rock, Moshe instead struck This same idea is stressed by “engraved This response seems puzzling, for is discussed at the beginning of the the rock. As a result, G-d decreed that letters.” When ink is written on paper, when one’s life is in danger, the laws parshah, is called a chok, because it he shall not enter Eretz Yisroel. the ink may possibly fade or crack, or of Shabbos are put aside. Here, there defies reason. even be completely peeled off. The This requires some explanation. Why had been a clear death sentence, and connection between the letter and was this considered such a serious it would seem most important to get Chassidus explains that the word chok the writing surface is only temporary. transgression? Moshe had tried speak- out of such an environment as soon is related to the word chakikah, or Engraved letters, though, cannot be ing to the rock but no water came. as possible. Furthermore, technically, “engraved.” In particular, it refers to peeled away. They become a permanent, Furthermore, G-d had instructed there would not have been a halachic letters which are engraved in stone, in unchangeable part of the stone. Moshe to “take the stick,” and it was desecration of Shabbos (see Likkutei contrast with those which are written only natural for Moshe to think that Sichos, Third of Tammuz, 5744). with ink on paper. This idea of permanence gives us an just as previously he had used the stick additional lesson regarding the 12th However, this case involved a public Obviously, Chassidus does not only to bring water, so too here! of Tammuz and the spreading of Torah Chillul Hashem. There would have point out this connection because of and mitzvos. When this is only an The Chumash itself relates that G-d been public mention that they had the phonetic similarity between the external aspect of our being (like letters declared why this was so serious, “you forced the Previous Rebbe to travel two words, but also because they are of ink, which are separate from the did not have faith in Me, to sanctify Me on Shabbos, and he therefore would similar in meaning and content. paper), it can vary when the environ- in the eyes of the B’nai Yisroel.” (Bam- not agree under any circumstances. ment changes. When the mission of idbar 20:12.) This involved a public This is an additional lesson teaching us When a law is connected with a certain spreading Torah and mitzvos becomes Kiddush Hashem and was therefore how our work in spreading Torah and reason or explanation, it is possible engraved in our being, however, it extremely important. mitzvos must be done with constant that the law will eventually change. remains constantly strong despite any self-sacrifice, since it is connected with We see this with rabbinic enactments, We find a similar point in regard to the possible obstacles. Kiddush Hashem. which can sometimes be modified by 3rd of Tammuz. When the Previous a qualified Jewish court when circum- Furthermore, Torah and mitzvos must Rebbe was notified that he was being

Gimel Tamuz: Yearning and Bitochon From the Rebbe’s talks and letters 5. “My revered father-in-law, the spiritual, is also on a higher and simultaneously had an effect on the Regarding the Previous Rebbe and the Rebbe of blessed memory, who more elevated plane” (Igros vol. 3 person, and on such an occasion, histalkus ‘bore the ailments and carried pg. 270). a person needs to draw this down (Taken in part from Sichos in English) our pains’, who was ‘anguished into action”. (From Sichas Yud 7. “We all should know, that we had by our sins and ground down Shvat 1961) a great Rebbe. Now we also have a Compiled by Rabbi Michoel Seligson by our transgressions’; just as he great Rebbe, my father-in-law the 10. “The same is relevant to every saw us in our affliction, so will he Rebbe, who asked (and prayed) on leader and Nosi of the Yidden in 1. During the first year after the speedily in our days and rapidly in our behalf and whose requests were his generation: A Nesi Yisroel, Previous Rebbe’s histalkus, the our times, redeem the sheep of his fulfilled. Also now he is asking for despite knowing his own high Rebbe told one of Anash that, “A blessing and success for Yidden status, nevertheless places himself yunger man needs to think about ❝ His connection with in general, and for those who are aside, and watches his flock. And the Rebbe in the early morning us now is just as strong connected to him, in particular when they remain in exile, he too and at the end of the day.” (Kfar (Igros vol. 3 pg. 444). remains with them in order to be # 525). as it was in the first mo- able to draw down [hamshochos] 8. “The Mishna declares ‘At thirty 2. A note that the Rebbe wrote to the ment after his passing. ... to them and serve them. He is the one achieves strength.’ We might esteemed chossid, Reb Avrohom channel through which a Yid can go to his graveside, write assume that since it is thirty years , stated, “Reb Avrohom, we connect the root of his Nshama Pidyonos, with ques- since the Rebbe’s passing, we are need to draw the Rebbe down with Hashem.” (Sichas Yud Shvat now able to stand on our own. The again. In the present situation, it is tions and requests, and 1954. Editors note: During this reply is no, ‘a shepherded will never too difficult – for me, for you, and Sicha, the Rebbe broke down and ask for mercy and bless- leave his flock.’ His connection with who benefits from this?” cried several times). ing to the extent that he us now is just as strong as it was in 3. “Thank you for the updates on your should also make the the first moment after his passing. 11. “At first glance the connection it is activities. .You should increase Therefore we must hold tight to not understood, that because ‘his in writing letters. And if you are vessels with which to the ‘kliamkeh’ (his doorknob) and children are alive’ therefore it must lacking energy, you should think receive the blessings ❞ especially to his open door; go to be that ‘he is alive’ – could there be that by not writing [and doing] his graveside, write Pidyonos, with a situation where his children are one hinders the Geula, Tchiyas flock simultaneously from spiritual questions and requests, and ask for alive and he is not?! Hameisim and greeting the Rebbe, and physical exile, and uplift us to mercy and blessing to the extent my father-in-law, and his father, [a state where we shall be suffused that he should also make the vessels The explanation is, since a Rebbe is a the Rebbe Rashab, etc. Do you not with] rays of light.” (End of Maamor with which to receive the blessings general Nshama he is the essence of his have a yearning for all this?!”(Igros Bosi L’gani 5711-1951) .” (Sichas Yisro, 1980). children, and therefore, as long as his 4 vol. pg. 120) children are alive, he is also alive. 6. “Nevertheless, the influence [he 9. “The same is relevant regarding 4. “For when we realize, that then conveys] is at present, to a certain Tzadikim who are compared to As long as his children - chassidim, ‘those who lie in the dust will rise up degree, different from what it was their creator (Medrash Bamidbar mekushorim and the ones connected and rejoice,’ including the Previous previously. For at present, [his] Rabba 10:5), that even when a to him, and all who have heard about Rebbe. And the Previous Rebbe soul is free from all the limitations thought about hiskashrus occurs to him - are alive, then he too is alive. will show Moshiach the fruit of his and constraints of the body and a person, or a feeling or something And he awakens pity and draws down labors during his seventy years on can ascend one peak after another. higher yet, one needs to know that hashpoas to his children, not only in this world. This will inspire us to (This is the meaning of the term this may stem not on one’s own a spiritual sense but also in a physical become worthy examples of those histalkus.) Hence the influence behalf, but rather the Rebbe has sense, in parnossa and so on.” fruit.” (Sichas Bshalach 1981). that he grants, both material and thought about him and therefore or 4 CROWN HEIGHTS Newspaper ~July 4, 2008 Our Heroes

Horav Hagaon Hachossid Reb to manage all the other girls’ schools. Over the course of a short period of 3, 1895—Sivan 17, 1975 from Otwock to , where they tember 1939. When the Rebbe reached time, Reb Yisroel was serving as the spent Shabbos. Sunday, they traveled Riga in Teves 1940, he spoke on the president of nine branches of the Bais (Adapted from the Sefer Toldos Chabad to Riga. They hadn’t yet decided if phone with Reb Yisroel and relayed a Rivka schools. Bartzos Habris) they should immediately return to the blessing for Anash in the . U.S. or remain in Riga. For the time When it was obvious that the Rebbe In addition to these schools, geared Part II being, they decided to participate in was arriving in the U.S., Reb Yisroel for girls who attended Torah studies in the shiurim of Horav Chefetz and Reb and a committee of chassidim wrote the afternoon, a new branch of schools By Rabbi Michoel Seligson Yitzchok Horowitz since the Rebbe letters to all the Rabbinical organiza- was established with full day classes had instructed them to go to Riga. The tions and to American Jewry at large, in which the girls would study Torah Over the course of a few years, Reb chassidim in Riga told the bochurim to inviting them to participate in a grand topics as well as secular subjects. This Yisroel Jacobson had developed shiurim feel free to do as they wished, and they kabbolas ponim to greet the Rebbe would be a unique achievement for for bochurim and successfully should feel free to return home to the upon his arrival. students to spend a complete day in a brought them closer to chassidus and United States at anytime, which they kosher environment. the Previous Rebbe. When the Rebbe arrived, he was greeted by different segments of American Establishing Rabbonei Chabad in Gaon Yaakov - Chassidishe pride Jewry. Rabbinical delegations, yeshiva Different Cities students and throngs of Yidden from all One Yud Tes Kislev, Reb Yisroel was walks of life, eagerly waited to catch a In addition to sending shluchim, farbrenging with congregants of one glimpse of the Rebbe, about whom they Lubavitch Rabbonim were sent to of the larger shuls in Brownsville. A had heard and read so much. run Chabad shuls and communities. participant asked if they could sing the was one of the cities that had Alter Rebbe’s nigun. Reb Yisroel told The Rebbe stayed in the Greystone many Chabad shuls. The Previous them not to. A short while later, Reb Yis- Hotel in City over the follow- Rebbe wished to see Reb Yisroel fill roel instructed that before singing the ing weeks. A committee of chassidim the position of Rav in the Chabad shul, Alter Rebbe’s nigun everyone should was established to raise funds for a Anshei Lubavitch, since Chicago was a put on their hats. All the congregants building where the Rebbe could settle central location for Lubavitch, similar did so. and establish a Lubavitch center. Reb to New York. The efforts to effect this Yisroel, a member of the committee, change spanned many years. Eventu- During the , the rabbi of the immediately committed himself to this ally, in honor of the shuls’ fiftieth year, shul was sitting at another table and project and began fund raising for this the Rebbe sent Rabbi Shlomo Hecht as studying Gemoro. When he heard Reb vital cause. his representative. In time he won over Yisroel’s instruction, he commented, Rabbi Jacobson the community, and they appointed “I am sitting and learning Gemoro in One of the Rebbe’s first projects was to him as their Rav. a yarmulka. I am saying Brochos in a subsequently did. establish a yeshiva. The evening after yarmulka. Why does the nigun need his arrival, he stated that he would Spreading Chassidus a hat?” The Rebbe was in Warsaw until Teves, not retire for the night until he had and he was concerned, having received received word that a yeshiva had been Chassidus Chabad stresses the spread- Reb Yisroel insisted that the Rav no information regarding the bochu- established by the next morning. The ing of chassidus, and a group of chassi- should also put on his hat. Reb Yisroel rim. When he reached Riga, he was Rebbe was assured that the yeshiva dim convened a meeting to discuss and stood up and sang the nigun with great notified that the bochurim had returned would be established. The yeshiva was plan the spreading of Chassidus. Reb inspiration. The congregants were very home safely. When the Previous Rebbe started in the Oneg Shabbos Shul in Yisroel involved himself in this project touched by Reb Yisroel’s singing of the arrived in the United States in 1940, East Flatbush, where in later years Reb as well, and committees were created nigun. these bochurim were the foundation Chaim Meir Bukiet served as the Rav. to implement practical suggestions to of the Yeshiva in Reb Yisroel was appointed the menahel achieve this goal. After the nigun, the rabbi stood up and New York. and together with Hagaon said, “This is the gaon Yaakov of chas- Hachossid Reb Shmuel Levitin. Chevra Kadisha sidim. To sing the Alter Rebbe’s nigun, The Rebbe’s settling in the U.S. in one needs to put on his hat.” 1940 TheY eshiva needed a building to serve In 1942, the Previous Rebbe founded as a home for the students. Reb Yisroel the Lubavitch Chevra Kadisha, and he In mid 1939, Reb Yisroel organized Already in the winter of 1939, the Reb- was summoned to a planning meet- confirmed the appointed gaboim of the a group of bochurim to travel to the be’s secretary Reb Ychezkel [Chatchka] ing and in his selfless way took upon Chevra Kadisha. Reb Yisroel was one Rebbe in Otwock. There they would Feigin wrote to Reb Yisroel, sharing himself another new project. of the appointed three. study in Yeshiva Tomchei Tmimim for confidential information. Until this two years. He selected the following point, the Rebbe had turned down Girls’ Schools Observance of the Shabbos bochurim for this unique experience. suggestions that he settle in the U.S. : Mordechai Dov Altein, Meir The Rebbe was now considering this In addition to the establishment of During these years in America, some Greenberg, Avrohom Dov Hecht, option and had begun the process of the yeshiva, the Rebbe embarked on a aspects of Yiddishkeit needed special Yitzchok Kolodny, Zorach Gordon obtaining a visa. The Rebbe said that new mission, that of establishing girls’ Chizuk. One of the Mitzvos in dire need and Mordechai Fisher. On the 19th of he was going to travel, not as a Rav. He schools. On the 6th of Cheshvan 1944, of strengthening was the observance of Menachem Av 1939, Reb Yisroel and would need permits for family members a meeting was called by the Rebbe in Shabbos. The Previous Rebbe wrote the group of bochurim left the United and additional families referred to his Yechidus room. The Rebbe, his letters to various chassidim regarding States. They arrived in and trav- by the Rebbe as, “around me”, plus son-in-law, and a group of chassidim this matter. eled by train to Otwock. The Previous an additional ten to fifteen students. participated. The aim was to concen- Rebbe’s son-in-law, the Rebbe, greeted Reb Chatchka told Reb Yisroel that trate on the field of girls’ education, In a letter dated the 14th of Shvat 1946, them at the train station. He talked to the processing of all the documents which had been very neglected in the the Rebbe suggested that as a represen- them about the concept of a Rebbe and needed to be done in the U.S. and not United States. tative of Agudas Chassidei Chabad, how privileged they were to see the at the American Consulate in Warsaw, Reb Yisroel should get involved and Previous Rebbe. Reb Yisroel remained whose members were known for their Reb Yisroel took upon himself the establish a learning program for Shab- in Otwock with the students until the bias against immigrants. In conclusion, responsibility of running two girls’ bos day. 14th of Elul, at which point he returned Reb Chatchka relayed that all of the schools, one in Brownsville and the to the United States via Italy. above was dependent on the situation other in East New York. From then on, Mikvaos in . If peace held in Poland and the schools were divided. Bais Rivka, World War II the surrounding countries, then plans under the management of Horav Jacob- Another essential feature in Yiddishkeit for the trip would be put on hold. son, was in Brownsville and East New was the building of mikvaos. In a letter On Friday, the 17th of Elul, World War York. Merkos L’inyonei Chinuch was in the early 1940’s, the Rebbe wrote II broke out. The bochurim moved The Second World War began in Sep- July 4, 2008 ~ crOWN heights Newspaper 5

t o R e b life, gave them simple guidance in students. He would speak to them for such an outstanding and exceptional Yisroel manners, how to conduct oneself, and hours, helping them to make sense personality: regarding so on. This developed into a warm of their past history or assisting with “Therefore, as a result of his accom- a permit relationship between the families and information about a new Torah topic plishments – as much as he had accom- for build- Reb Yisroel. He knew each of them by they had just discovered. plished up to the conclusion of his life, ing mate- their first name and was always available he felt that he was still in the midst of a rial for a to them. Reb Yisroel was very positive about life conversation or an activity. He was still Mikva. and its experiences. Mrs. Seligson, a Yeshiva Tomchei Tmimim in New- in the full swing of his activities and The gov- Crown Heights resident, and the wife of ark, therefore had no patience for his own ernment the doctor in Bais HoRav, once met Reb sighs of illness. The enormous invest- limited the Yisroel in the street. He said to her, “The In 1958, Reb Yisroel organized the ment of energy for the work of Torah availabil- students are talking to me about their yeshiva in Newark, New Jersey. Bochu- and Chassidus was not extinguished ity of these unpleasant past and wish to convey to rim who had completed their studies even when his physical energy had materials, me their feelings about it. I tell them, in the Lubavitch Yeshiva would then left him. as it was ‘Forget about your past, we have begun continue onto Newark for two years. wartime, a new a chapter in life.’” He had devoted his entire life and Afterwards, they returned to 770. This Rabbi Jacobson 1954 and all had elevated his great soul, standing was considered, “Exile to a place of essen- Anyone who met Reb Yisroel saw a per- with full alertness, fully mobilized, in Torah.” The yeshiva in Newark existed tial materials were in use for the war son with an immense amount of energy, readiness on his sacred post. What can until after 1971, when it was relocated to effort. a cordial and warm person, who was be greater than that?!” Morristown, N.J. Reb Yisroel served as sincerely considerate of every individual Farbrengen in different cities the mashpia in the yeshiva in Newark, that he was in contact with. He left his wife, Mrs. Shaina Jacobson; as well. his daughter, Mrs. Chaya Soro, the wife In 1944, a plan to strengthen chassidim Reb Yisroel was the Rav in the commu- Reb Yisroel’s Memoirs of Horav Shlomo Hecht, who served as and learning was initiated. Chas- nity and would constantly be consulted the shliach of the Previous Rebbe and sidim would travel to different cities with questions of all kinds. There were In the 1970’s, Reb Yisroel shared with as a Rav in Chicago; and may they live and farbreng. Reb Yisroel traveled to often occasions when RebY isroel held the readers of the Yiddishe Heim his and be well, his daughter, Mrs. Rochel Philadelphia and Washington D.C. two phone receivers and carried on two memoirs and treasure house of stories Dwoshe, the wife of Horav Mordechai where he gave chizuk to the Yidden of conversations at the same time. about the Previous Rebbe and the Dov Altein of Crown Heights, who the respective cities. chassidim of his time. Reading his served as a Rav in and in the One of Anash told a personal story of memoirs, it seems as if the clock had Bais Din of Vaad Rabbonei Lubavitch Hiskashrus to the Rebbe his experience with Reb Yisroel: “Reb been turned back forty or fifty years Hakloli; his daughter, Mrs. Chava, the Yisroel once participated in the simcha to Otwock and Brownsville. His 280 wife of Mr. Michoel Hartheimer, of After the histalkus of the Previous of a certain family. A few years passed, pages of memoirs are published in the the Upper East Side of Manhattan and Rebbe, Reb Yisroel was among the older and he came upon their phone number. sefer “Zikoron L’bnei Yisroel”. When grandchildren and great-grandchildren chassidim who committed themselves He asked me to contact the family. the memoirs were prepared for publica- who are Shluchim of the Rebbe in their to the Rebbe. This is clearly evident When I met the family, I asked them if tion, the Rebbe was asked to give his respective cities. from his correspondence with the their children were attending a Talmud consent and blessing. In response, the mashpia Horav Chaim Shaul Brook in Torah. They told me that they weren’t. I Rebbe wrote, “I consent and in addition, Yehi Zichro Boruch! May Reb Yisroel, a Israel. Reb Yisroel also wrote a pidyon then taught the Bar-Mitzva boy how to a great yasher - especially that legendary Chossid totally and selflessly to the Rebbe in late 1950, in the name put on . Every Motzoei Shabbos people will surely learn from reading committed to the Rebbe’s activities, of the students for whom he was the I would visit them and teach them about the memoirs, particularly regarding the who lived and breathed everything that mashpia in Yeshiva Tomchei Tmimim Yiddishkeit. The family also had two necessary and sincere communal work, related to the Rebbe and his projects, 770. daughters who had no interest in Juda- specifically the Chabad work.” who was devoted to every Yid of any Over the course of the following years, ism and had no intention to marry or background that turned to him, and Reb Yisroel served as the mashpia in settle down. After they were convinced In the last few weeks of his life, he was who guided the Tmimim from their 770. He would give shiurim and far- to learn about their heritage, they ill and had to be hospitalized. Yeshiva age on through their married breng with the bochurim. Reb Yisroel became involved in it. Over the course life, serve as the inspiration to be sin- was very close to each bochur, and all of time, one sister became engaged to On the 17th of Sivan in 1975, Reb Yis- cerely devoted to the Rebbe’s interests had a special relationship with him. a religious bochur. When her sister roel returned his energetic Neshama, and institutions, to relate to another Yid He taught them to have an exceptional met the bochur, she said, ‘If I will get filled with many accomplishments, who only needs a cordial greeting or a devotion to another Yid. One of his married, it will be only to someone like to her Creator. The Rebbe instructed hearing ear in order to receive guidance students recalled that Reb Yisroel was my sister is marrying.’ that on his matzeva the words “Vrabim or assistance, and to never be satisfied once informed that there was a Yid who heshiv me’ovon” - he returned many with one’s accomplishments. was ill in the Bronx. He instructed his “After a few years, the family grew from sins, should be inscribed. students that for the next week or so, and the original couple had eighteen We should speedily witness, “The ones one of the students should visit this grandchildren, all of them religious and To conclude with the eloquent words who dwell in the dust will awaken person every morning. Every evening, fulfilling Torah and Mitzvos. These are of Reb Yehoshua Dubrawsky in his and rejoice,” with Reb Yisroel among after a full day of work, Reb Yisroel all the fruit of Reb Yisroel’s efforts to article in the Yiddishe Heim # 65, them. would travel to the Bronx to visit as keep in touch with one single, almost in the attempt to sum up the life of well. forgotten family.” Shabbos gathering with Anash Yeshiva families In 1965, many Yidden were returning In addition of being in contact with to Yiddishkeit and settling in Crown the bochurim, Reb Yisroel would visit Heights. There was no yeshiva where homes of Anash on Shabbos. He would they could study and gain the knowl- converse with the men and their fami- edge of Torah and Mitzvos that they lies. Prior to Shabbos, yungeleit would needed. Reb Yisroel founded the first find out the location of the Shabbos Baal Teshuva yeshiva, Hadar Hatorah. farbrengen, and everyone participated Students from various backgrounds by bringing food for the gathering. were welcomed and felt they found something that added a greater and On Shabbos afternoon, Reb Yisroel deeper meaning to their lives. Reb would come to the house and sit together Yisroel, as was his nature, devoted Achos Tmimim - at the right- first row - Rabbi Elye Chaim Althaus with newly married couples. He would himself to each one of these cherished 2nd row= Rabbi Mordechai Chefetz speak to them about Torah views on 6 CROWN HEIGHTS Newspaper ~July 4, 2008 Gimmel Tammuz

Korach’s spiritual what happened on Gimmel Tammuz is not evident at the outset, ultimately, natural order. Although our behavior level was very high was a positive development or not. we will see how He fulfills our physical until the present -- in this the last However, in retrospect, it is clearly the needs generously, and, how much more generation of the exile and the first Published and copyright © by Sichos In beginning of the redemption. Thus, it is so, our spiritual needs. generation of the redemption -- can English also the beginning of the process which already be considered a miraculous This is particularly in the present year, The third of (Gimmel) Tammuz ultimately brought the Previous Rebbe order, since this has been repeated the fortieth year since the Previous commemorates the beginning of the to America, where a new stage in the several times, it has already become Rebbe’s passing. Through this approach, redemption of the Previous Rebbe from spreading of Chassidus was begun. second nature, and we must consider we will merit the open miracles which imprisonment. Though originally, a a higher and more “miraculous” rung It is appropriate to conclude the gather- will accompany the Messianic redemp- death sentence had been passed against of service. ing with the distribution of money to tion, miracles which will surpass the him, on the third of Tammuz, he was be given to tzedakah. This reflects the miracles that accompanied the exodus The decision to do this is itself signifi- freed to travel to Kostrama, where he tzedakah which G-d gives every indi- from Egypt as implied by the verse, cant, as the Rambam writes, with one was to live in exile. Ultimately, he stayed vidual, granting children, health, and “As in the days of your exodus from thought, speech, or deed, each Jew can there only a few days and received prosperity in abundance, particularly Egypt, I will show you wonders.” This tip the balance and bring salvation to complete freedom later on Yud-Beis when a proper receptacle is made to is related to the coming year, whose himself and the entire world. This is Tammuz. accept His generosity. letters are an acronym for the Hebrew particularly true since the Previous “These days are remembered and words meaning, “May this be a year of Rebbe told us that all that is necessary Our Sages teach: “What G-d com- celebrated.” Thus, each year, though miracles.” to do is “to polish the buttons,” and mands His children to fulfill, He, the primary commemoration of the Mashiach will come. Each one of us Himself, carries out.” Thus, just as He This can be enhanced by our efforts redemption is held on Yud-Beis and will point with his finger and say, “This commands us to give charity according in living in a miraculous manner, i.e., Yud-Gimmel Tammuz, the beginning is our G-d... This is the L-rd for whom to our potential, we can understand that studying Torah, fulfilling mitzvos and of the redemption on Gimmel Tam- we have hoped. Let us be happy and He also gives according to His ultimate spreading the wellsprings of Chassidus muz also warrants recognition. At rejoice in His salvation.” May it be potential. Even if the charitable intent in a manner which is lifted above the the outset, it was not known whether now—immediately!

Gimmel Tammuz 1927 bullet; then the terrible exile in Slovaki The Rebbe replied, “I don’t care if I have not forsake us or abandon us. — a double miracle! to remain in prison for an extremely Redemption of the Previous Rebbe “Not only is this a prayer to Hashem not long time because of this; I refuse to from Spalerka Prison Lulov’s harsh voice broke through the to forsake us, but it is also a promise and travel on Shabbos.” Rebbe’s thoughts: “Your situation in blessing that Hashem will not forsake (From “A Day to Recall A Day To Remem- Kostroma will be deplorable. A lot of The Rebbe spent that Shabbos in jail. us, even when we are in exile. ber” by Rabbi Sholom Ber Avtzon) hard work and much pain is awaiting On Sunday, Gimmel Tammuz, at two “Let the nations of the world know and The very next day, Thursday — Rosh you. However, if you retract your state- o’clock in the afternoon, he was told realize. We did not go into exile on our Chodesh Tammuz — three officers ment concerning the Leningrad Jewish that he could go home for a few hours, own will, nor will we return [to Eretz entered the Previous Rebbe’s cell. communal conference, I will arrange but he must catch the eight o’clock train Yisroel] by vir­tue of our own capabili- Prison protocol called for utmost your immediate freedom.” to Kostroma. ties. Hashem our father and King sent respect on the part of the prisoners; For over an hour, Lulov tried to con- The Rebbe made his way home. One us in exile, and He will redeem us by when addressed by a guard or officer, vince, cajole and threaten the Rebbe, could only imagine the happiness and sending us Moshiach. However only inmates must stand at attention. The to make him change his mind. But the relief of his family, when they saw him our bodies were sent into exile and Rebbe refused to arise, and said so, in Rebbe remained firm. “I don’t regret enter the door! After a joyous reunion subjected to foreign rule. Our souls Yiddish. what I did, and I won’t change my with his family, the Rebbe went into were not. One of the officers, a Jew, retorted, “If opposing opinion,” he replied stoically. his room to daven Mincha. “We are obligated to publicly proclaim you don’t stand, we will hit you!” The “Threaten me, if you will, with Siberia; Word of his arrival had spread like before all, that on any matter affecting Rebbe replied softly, “Nu?” The guards I won’t take back anything I said.” wildfire, and people streamed from the Jewish religion, Torah, Mitzvos and hit the Rebbe and left his cell. Both Lulov and the head of the local all parts of the city to catch a glimpse even its customs, no one can impose A short while later, Lulov entered the G.P.U. were infuri­ated and humiliated. of their Rebbe. Chassidim stood by his beliefs on us nor coerce us to act cell with some prison officials. “Rebbe!” How they longed to punish the Rebbe! the door of his study, and lis­tened to contrary to our beliefs. Lulov said sarcastically, “Why aren’t But their hands were tied; the National the Rebbe daven, enraptured by his “We resolutely state with the steadfast- you standing? These men are here to chief director of the G.P.U., Monshin- emotional and heartfelt Tefillos. ness of the Jewish nation: ‘Touch not give you good news!” sky, had already decided; he, not them The few hours that were allotted went my anointed nor attempt to do evil unto would decide the Rebbe’s fate. Once again, the Rebbe refused and by very fast. The hour turned seven, and my prophets.’ was struck once again. This procedure The Rebbe had bested them, and they the Rebbe was preparing to leave. He “It is well known that the law [of the was repeated a third time, with the knew it. But they would have their sweet was allowed to take along one family country] allows us to learn [and teach] Rebbe still declining to stand for the revenge; the Rebbe would have to leave member and one Chossid. The Rebbe Torah and perform Mitzvos. It is only jail guards. jail the following day, on Friday, and chose his second daughter the Reb- because of the efforts of false informers arrive in Kos­troma on Shabbos. betzin Chaya Mushka and the Chossid Finally, they ordered the Rebbe to with totally untrue accusation that Reb Eliyahu Chaim Althaus. Many follow them to the office, where he was Lulov was adamant about his decision. religious are imprisoned and Chassidim went to the train station to shown his verdict. If the Rebbe chose not to travel on sent to labor camps. The actions of buy tickets, but none were for sale. The Friday, then he won’t be able to leave those ignorant and evil doers shall be There were three sentences on the offi- G.P.U. forbade it. The train will travel the prison at all — and Lulov and his completely nullified. cial document, the first two crossed out. almost empty, as long as the Rebbe cohorts will have him retried. The first one was the death sen­tence: won’t be with his Chassidim. “This is our plea to Hashem: Do not “Death by a firing squad.” Next to it Once again, Mrs. Peshkova used her abandon us, rather give us the strength By The Train Station was the word, Nyet — No. The second considerable influ­ence in . At that we do not falter in face of this sentence, also with a line running an emergency meeting with the Prime The Rebbe arrived under heavy guard physical suffering. The more they through it, was: “Ten years in Slovaki”, Minister, she made her case. In her of the secret police and the regular civil afflict us should bolster our fortitude followed by another “Nyet”. presence, Rykov called Monshinsky, police. Standing on the station plat- of strengthening Judaism. the head of the G.P.U., and told him to form, the Rebbe turned to the crowd The third sentence, left unedited, “Remember, their punishments are in allow the Rebbe to travel on Sunday. and, unintimidated by the “authorities”, read, “Three years in Kostroma.” This the physical realm of the world, which the Rebbe addressed the crowd. was to be the Rebbe’s punishment: a Once again, Lulov had lost — but he is temporary, while Torah, Mitzvos and relatively mild exile, not too far from refused to give up completely. One last “We raise our lips in prayer to Hashem: Israel are eternal. civilization. time, he tried to convince the Rebbe. ‘Yehi Hashem Elo­kaynu Imanu Kaasher “Shalom — May Hashem bring peace “If you leave tomorrow, on Friday,” Haya Im Avosaynu Al Yaazvaynu V’al Inwardly, the Rebbe rejoiced and upon you. We shall merit the blessing, Lulov told him, “You will be released Yitshainu’ — Hashem should be with thanked Hashem with his whole heart. ‘Hashem shall be with us as He was immediately after your arrival there.” us as he was with our fathers, He should He had escaped immediate death by July 4, 2008 ~ crOWN heights Newspaper 7

What is a Rebbe? extremely lauda­tory terms. diffuse their influence in an indirect inward and encompassing influence — and encompassing manner. These dif- in Torah, in avodah, and in the practice This letter was writ- Nevertheless, the essential point is ferences may be further subdivided: of good deeds; [and they conveyed ten by the Rebbe on missing here. Apart from this being the some Nesiim endow their recipients blessings both] spiritual and material. Gimel Tamuz 1950 essence per se, it is especially important with insights into the revealed plane Consequently, [the Nesiim of Chabad] because of the vital effect it has [in of the Torah (Nigleh); some endow have been bound with all 613 organs of Published and copyright © by Sichos In general], and in particular upon us, their recipients with insights into the the soul and body of those who were English the community of those who are his mystical plane of the Torah, and some connected with them. chassidim and who are bound to him. do both together; some instruct their Many people seek to pinpoint and char- That essential point is the fact that he is followers in the paths of avodah and Every single one of us must know — i.e., acterize the vir­tues and preeminence the Nasi, and the Nasi of Chabad. Chassidus; some direct material ben- must think deeply and fix his thought of each of the Rebbeim of Chabad, and efits to their followers; and so on. on this — that [the Rebbe Rayatz] is in particular of the Nasi of our genera- For a Nasi by definition is referred indeed the Nasi and the head; from tion — my revered father-in-law, the to as the head of the multitudes of And there are Nesi’im who comprise him and through him are directed all Rebbe, ” — in various terms: the Israel; in relation to them he is the several of these attributes, or even all material and spiritual benefac­tions; and הכ מ paradigm of self-sacrifice, a gaon, a man “head” and “brain”; their nurture and of them. by being bound to him (in his letters he of exemplary character traits, a tzaddik, life-force reach them through him; has taught us how this is accomplished), an individual endowed with divine and by cleaving to him they are bound This [essential] quality [of a Nasi] we are bound and united with the spiri- inspira­tion, an individual accustomed and united with their Source in the has characterized the leadership of tual root, with the ultimate Supernal to [performing] miracles, and so on. Supernal worlds. the Nesiim of Chabad from the very spiritual root. beginning, from the Alter Rebbe up to When one considers how the teachings Menachem Schneerson There are various categories of Nesiim: and including my revered father-in-law, of Chassidus de­fine what self-sacrifice some Nesiim convey their influence the Rebbe, ” . They incorporated all , 5710 [1950] הכ מ really means, what being a gaon really in an internalized manner; others the above attributes: they radiated both Brooklyn, N.Y. means, and so on, these are indeed

3rd Day Of Tammuz, 5749 Published and copyright © by Sichos in retrospect, it is clearly the beginning needs generously, and, how much more generation of the exile and the first In English of the redemption. Thus, it is also the so, our spiritual needs. generation of the redemption -- can beginning of the process which ulti- already be considered a miraculous The third of (Gimmel) Tammuz mately brought the Previous Rebbe to This is particularly in the present year, order, since this has been repeated commemorates the beginning of the America[28] where a new stage in the the fortieth year since the Previous several times, it has already become redemption of the Previous Rebbe from spreading of Chassidus was begun. Rebbe’s passing. Through this approach, second nature and we must consider imprisonment. Though originally, a we will merit the open miracles which a higher and more “miraculous” rung death sentence had been passed against It is appropriate to conclude the gather- will accompany the Messianic redemp- of service. him, on the third of Tammuz, he was ing with the distribution of money to tion, miracles which will surpass the freed to travel to Kostrama, where he be given to tzedakah. This reflects the miracles that accompanied the exodus The decision to do this is itself signifi- was to live in exile. Ultimately, he stayed tzedakah which G-d gives every indi- from Egypt as implied by the verse, cant, as the Rambam writes, with one there only a few days and received vidual, granting children, health, and “As in the days of your exodus from thought, speech, or deed, each Jew can complete freedom later on Yud-Beis prosperity in abundance, particularly Egypt, I will show you wonders.” This tip the balance and bring salvation to Tammuz. when a proper receptacle is made to is related to the coming year, É”ÖÜ, himself and the entire world. This is accept His generosity. whose letters are an acronym for the particularly true since the Previous “These days are remembered and Hebrew words meaning, “May this be Rebbe told us that all that is necessary celebrated.” Thus, each year, though Our Sages teach: “What G-d com- a year of miracles.” to do is “to polish the buttons,” and the primary commemoration of the mands His children to fulfill, He, Mashiach will come. Each one of us redemption is held on Yud-Beis and Himself, carries out.” Thus, just as He This can be enhanced by our efforts will point with his finger and say, “This Yud-Gimmel Tammuz, the beginning commands us to give charity according in living in a miraculous manner, i.e., is our G-d... This is the L-rd for whom of the redemption on Gimmel Tam- to our potential, we can understand that studying Torah, fulfilling mitzvos and we have hoped. Let us be happy and muz also warrants recognition. At the He also gives according to His ultimate spreading the wellsprings of Chassidus rejoice in His salvation.”[29] May it be outset, it was not known whether what potential. Even if the charitable intent in a manner which is lifted above the now, immediately. happened on Gimmel Tammuz was a is not evident at the outset, ultimately, natural order. Although our behavior positive development or not. However, we will see how He fulfills our physical until the present -- in this the last

Gimmel Tammuz 1927 Tuesday morning, the fifth of Tammuz, towards the G.P.U. Messing, the head of orders the Rebbe’s free­dom, he would the Rebbe went to the local checka the Leningrad G.P.U., claimed it would immediately rearrest the Rebbe. Continued From Page 6 — secret police. The administrator give cause to anti-Se­mitism, showing Mrs. Peshkova continued her intensive with our ancestors to neither forsake received him in an extremely sullen and that only a Jewish leader is freed while endeavors on behalf of the Rebbe and nor abandon us.’ And there shall be light antagonistic manner. He declared, “You other clergy are not. Even if Moscow was finally successful. unto all Jewish people in their abodes in are an exile prisoner receiving your the spiritual and material senses.” punishment for your criminal activities against the good of the country. Not Thus spoke the Frierdiker Rebbe in only can you not leave the city without front of the dreaded officers on his way special authori­zation, you must inform to exile-- the very same words he said us even if you are just changing your by the Purim farbrengen that caused place of residence.” his arrest. “You will be watched and we will be Kostrama informed of all your activities, public The traveling was non-stop for almost and private. Finally, you are to present twenty four hours. Late Monday night your­self here every Tuesday.” the train arrived in Kostrama. In The rescue committee continued their defiance of their commands that he efforts on behalf of the Frierdiker immediately report to the local authori- Rebbe, notwithstanding the advice that ties, the Rebbe went to his lodgings in they were given to wait for a while, as the house of the local Shochet. it would be perceived as open defiance 8 CROWN HEIGHTS Newspaper ~July 4, 2008 Shiduchim

put the names of the boys who came match. And also because now with this A Needle in A Haystack back from shlichus on the list. perception, more parents are actively involved and put more effort finding We are continuing to explore new tools revealed but hidden too. That is how The girls are put on after the first year of shidduchim for their children rather to be used in the old shidduchim trade, the star system came about. For you not Sem. in Elul not earlier. The reasoning than taking a more laid back approach trying to use all that the modern world familiar with the site, the star system is: not to put them in earlier is that when like in years past. has discovered in a proper way, in a * Sem Bais/Gimmel **Sem Daled/Hey the girls are listed a Sem Aleph, the tzniusdicke way, to increase our chances *** Sem Vov ****Sem Zayin +. previous Sem Aleph listing become Sem Many shidduchim have come about of making the perfect shidduch for our Beis etc. So everyone goes up a level. because people looked at the list. children. This way you can figure out the age of Naturally the girls do not want to be Sometimes friends or relatives were the girl approximately without actu- listed as older unless it is so, therefore able to come up with the right name Ka”h, Lubavitch has been growing and ally disclosing their age. The one who the best time to move the levels in the after perusing the list. There are no continues to grow. Once everyone knew originally started the girls list could not list is in Elul at the beginning of the new firm statistics, but the list has been suc- everyone else, or at least had a friend continue taking care of it, so it fell back term. The girls are usually listed a year cessfully employed by the Lubavitcher or relative who knew the family. Even on the bochrim who originally started earlier than the boys. Olam and should not be overlooked. not so long ago, when my husband was the boys list. growing up in Crown Heights, everyone Shluchos, classmates and friends will The list changed address a couple of knew everyone else. Jewish Geography The site was designed very simply send in names to be put on the list. Girls years ago because the TK extension was a lot simpler then and so were shid- with an amateurish look. This has not will send their own names sometimes, was rejected by a lot of servers and also duchim, but things changed, and B”H, changed for the time the list has been and some boys will too, although because problematic pop ups would Lubavitch has grown; the original fami- up. It was done so intentionally to show pop up. Now the list is hosted at a .com lies themselves are hundreds strong, address : http://lubavitchsingles.com. and the ones who have joined through From there one can access both the the years multiply all the time. boys’ or the girls’ list. On the index page of the boys list there are various links. To make things a bit easier, mothers or One of the links is to the site “mikomos” fathers would try to get lists of boys’ which has possible places to go to on names to be able to jump start a shid- that this was a homegrown idea, not generally girls will send in names more dates in the Tri State and a few other duch search. Such lists were hard or a professional endeavor. There is no often than boys will. If boys are ready States. Links are provided to some impossible to come by. By serendipity, cost to be mentioned in the list, and to get married and see their name is shidduchim articles, fun shiduchim in 1996, a bochur in 770, with help from all work is done by volunteers, L’Shem not listed, they will send it in. When sites and for the Enterprise Chabad car his friends, had access to such a list. By . a name is sent in, it is checked to see rental discount for that all important word of mouth the word spread, and if it is a made up name or if the person car. And when B"H we make a wedding fathers and brothers asked for copies, So how does one use the Bochrim or actually exists. It has happened that there is a link to weddingshtik.tk to be so did shadchonim. At the time the Girls’ List to find a shidduch? totally fake names are sent in to the mesameach the Chosson and Kallah list was handwritten and photocopied. list. If you send in your name and you with. Boys who got engaged got crossed off, If you are a long time Lubavitcher and do not see it in after a couple of weeks, and new names would be added, all know a lot of the families, just scanning email them again, maybe they could The site gets numerous hits a day. If you done by hand. When the cross outs and the list and narrowing down the names not verify your name. are familiar with a lot of people or if you additions became too messy, a new list you know may be helpful. Then you have a friend who is, do not hesitate to would be started until it got out of hand can inquire about those names and If a boy or a girl went though the use this resource in your shidduchim again, and so on. Eventually with the see if there is any family you know that Lubavitcher School system, they search. help of computers, the list got easier to would fit the parameters of what you are most probably in the list. If they manage. Certainly deletions and addi- are looking for. If you are not familiar dropped out early, they would need to tions were easier to handle, and a fresh with a lot of families in Chabad, then send in their name. CHABADMATCH. copy could be had with a click. ask a friend who knows a lot of people com or (for a boy) your son – if he is the right Who is on the list? Mainly English Progress brought the internet, and as age – or a nephew, to look through speaking bochurim and girls from Another tool available to us Lubavitch- with everything else, it was (and is) the list and see if there are any names North America. All those listed are ers that utilizes the very latest state of both very good and very bad. But being that catch his eye--if he knows them single, not previously married. the art technology but does so in a tra- Lubavitchers, we try to use all we can and can describe then to you. Then, ditional way is ChabadMatch.com. in the right way and for the good, so if appropriate, do research and try to When someone’s engagement is listed the list moved to a free server host, make the shidduch. Same thing if you on Shmais, that name is removed from ChabadMatch agrees that there is a Geocities. This incarnation of the list are looking for a girl: ask your daughter the list. If you know of someone on the shidduchim crisis. A lot of the web- appeared in 2002,, and it became a or someone with whom you are close to list that is already engaged or married, master’s friends were finding great hot topic among those in the “parsha”. look at the list for suggestions. you should notify the list (with some difficulty in finding shidduchim, so Imagine you don’t have to beg anyone, backup proof of your information) so he came up with this concept to try ask favors or bug your friends; all you Having one’s name on the list, be it the the name can be removed. and help others find their spouses. The need is a computer, and you can have boys list or the girls list, is not an instant original idea grew out from the desire a list of all eligible Lubavitcher boys. solution to finding a shidduch. Do not The list organizer tried in 2004 to have to get more information about poten- What a Metzia! wait for people to call you because listings with a bit of a profile and not tial shidduchim than the “Bochrim they have seen your name on the list, just names; unfortunately, the ones List” was making available. The site The boys’ list was great, but what about but be proactive and look at the list for who answered sent in inappropriate creator took his idea to developers and a girls list? And is it really proper to have the possibilities that it can bring you. profiles, and almost no one mainstream designers, raised initial funding and all these boys’ names on the web? Is it Maybe it’s that name that would never sent in a proper profile, so the idea was built a prototype which he showed to Kosher?? The creator of the list went have come into your mind if you had dropped. shadchonim. With their feedback the to ask the Rov who looked at the site not read it there. Go back a few times site was tweaked to be the best that and how it was set up and gave it an to look at the list; new names get added Are there really more boys than girls? it could be. ChanadMatch is a work OK. So part of the problem was solved, often. According to the list manager, that in progress; new improvements are but how could a boy make a girls, list? is not really true. If one looks at new added as necessary. Presently, when Besides the fact that the boy’s list took How do names get on the list? When births for a long time, it was about there are new members on the site, the enough time to maintain, should the bochurim return from shlichus, their 50/50. Lately, there have been a lot more shadchonim get notified. girls not do a list for themselves if they names are now put on the list. It used boys than girls, but it all evens out in felt the need? to be that bochurim were put on the the end. So why do we perceive there The site was also shown to Rabbonim, list later, but when it was explained is a shidduch crisis? Because there are and it received their haskoma that it was And so it was that a girl put together a few years ago that girls are looking a number of older girls and boys who indeed proper and okay to list names the first girls list and devised a manner already at 19 and there are no younger have not found shidduchim, and the and profiles of singles in this way. by which the ages of the girls could be boys listed, the decision was made to older they get the harder it is to find a July 4, 2008 ~ crOWN heights Newspaper 9

ChabadMatch started two years ago, Keep in mind that only shadchonim mother saw the profile of the same boy It costs $18 to register at the site. The and at this time they have about 1,950 see the pictures; no parents see them on ChabadMatch. The qualities she money goes to maintain the site, web singles registered. Since inception, 20 on their searches. was looking for were there in black on design and to host it. Plans are in the shidduchim came directly from using white, and she realized this is who she works to fundraise to be able to have a the site, and a few more happened The questions on the website were wanted for her daughter. The match was full-time administrator for the site. indirectly because of seeing a proposed again, and this time it went profile on the site. through, and they are B”H married. One never knows who or even what is Sometimes everything is right but the designated shliach for a successful As any other tool, this database the time; when the right time comes shidduch. Every step we take on the is made to be used as a spring- everything falls into place. shidduch road is a step ahead. Even a board for your own efforts. If failed suggestion takes us closer to find- a promising profile is found, In another case, one family lived in ing a zivug for our son or daughter. Let thought out carefully with shadchonim research has to be made; the shadchan and the other in . us try every means at our disposal--our so that the person describing him or has to be contacted, etc. Just having The match came about, and they met friends and families, our community herself is able to give a comprehensive the profile up on the site will not bring in Israel. They are now married. shadchonim, conference calls, Bochrim profile of themselves. Naturally some results. New names are listed daily, so it lists or ChabadMatch. We never know will reveal more and some less. One Sometimes a shidduch would not be which method will work for us. may say this profile is even better than thought of because one may think the an interview with a shadchon because backgrounds are too disparate, but by Best wishes to all of you out there look- more thought goes into the writing of looking at the profiles one can see that ing for your zivug, and may we see you a profile than just describing oneself to they are actually a perfect match, and soon in the Mazal Tov pages a shadchon. a meeting proves it! The amount of information that parents can see is decided by the parent writing It’s Like Riding a Bicycle the profile or by the single; they can By Rabbi Third is the knowledge that the easiest pays to return often to the site to see if make more or less information avail- way to break a habit is by layering new something interesting is now listed. able to parents looking at the database. According to the dic- behavior patterns on top of the old When a parent or a single fills out the tionary, the definition ones. I don’t know where motivational Chabadmatch is a starting point. Use profile, the answers should be as com- of habit is “an acquired speakers get the idea that it takes ChabadMatch to narrow down your plete and comprehensive as possible. behavior pattern, reg- twenty-one days to gain a new habit. choices. Go to the site often to see Think about the impression you want ularly followed until There are habits that can be changed new profiles. Then continue with the people to come away with. it has become almost in 30 seconds; some need 30 days, and research and contacting the shad- involuntary.” some can’t be changed after 30 years. chonim, etc. On the site one can find all sorts of boys Do you know anyone who has acquired or girls: there are some boys who are Habits are like submarines; they run such habits? Maybe someone whose Two contacts are listed for every list- on shlichus and plan to make a life of silent and deep. They also are like com- habits could use some change? Like ing. In the case where a person cannot shlichus; there are working boys; there fortable beds in that they’re easy to get your spouse, children or friends? reach either of the two contacts, one’s are girls who are on shlichus or who into but difficult to get out of. So don’t own shadhan or one of the shadchonim are working; girls who only want boys Though it’s a known fact that you can expect immediate, amazing results. listed on the site can be asked to make who will try to go on shlichus, or girls change your life if you can change your It may take a while to remember the the shidduch. Even the webmaster who are looking for both working and habits, anyone who has tried to break motions of a new skill, but after many has taken a hand in helping out when shlichus boys or just for working boys. a habit knows that it can be one of the years of being you, it takes far longer to necessary. There are profiles from America, Israel, hardest challenges we can face. settle into a new habit pattern and stay and Europe. According there. The main thing is that we must Changing a habit is a lot like learning The site was created for shadchonim to the site manager, Lubavitch has be patient and stress the positive. to ride a bicycle. You must believe that to have a database of singles who are become too big, and a list of names a machine that can’t even stand by itself A story that brings this point home is looking for shidduchim. Shadchonim is not enough to be helpful to a vast will transport you safely. Of course, one about a Rabbi. Every morning he have access to all singles profiles, names majority of parents who do not know you’ve seen it work for others, but now would jump out of bed at 6:00 a.m. and and pictures. who people are by family names. you’ve got to convince yourself that drive around town to pick up the people this achievement can actually happen needed for his minyan (quorum). Feedback revealed that parents were Why did this site succeed in having to you. frustrated by not being in control of singles list their profiles while the One morning he woke up, jumped out the shidduch process. Waiting for a “Bochrim List” did not? My opinion Think about what it takes for you to of bed and started driving to do his shadchon to come up with a suggestion is that in 2004 when the “Bochrim convince yourself that a bike will hold pick ups. As he drove onto the freeway, is sometimes hard, and when the sug- List” made the attempt, people were you, and you’ll understand why it’s so he turned on the radio just in time to gestions are not appropriate, a parent still shying away from putting personal difficult to change an ingrained habit. hear the radio announcer say, “Great might well be upset and wish that there information on the web. But recently We read about changing our habits and Saturday morning to you.” was a way they could themselves start with the Facebook (or My Space) see others struggle with it - sometimes The Rabbi freaked out and said, “Oh my the process. The site empowers parents phenomena, this has become accepted successfully - we know it’s within G-d. I’m driving on Shabbat!” to do limited searches and offers a way at an alarming rate. There is a lot on our reach, but we’ve got to fall many to study the profiles without pictures Facebook that should never have been times before we actually succeed. He started to worry not only about and most without names, so they can written and published. the desecration of the Holy Day, but decide if there is a profile they are We will be more likely to succeed in also about who will see the local Rabbi interested in. They then can approach a Because ChabadMatch is a private site, our mission if we accept three habit- driving on Shabbat. So he quickly drove shadchon to complete the shidduch. one can only go in with a password, and changing tips. off the freeway just in time to hear the only parents (or registered singles), and radio announcer say, “Excuse me, did I First, the recognition and understand- The webmaster and his wife put in time shadchonim have access. It is as safe say Saturday? I meant Friday.” ing of what a habit is--a routine adhered keeping the site up to date and answer- as possible. Writing a profile, one has to over time will become second nature, The Rabbi was legitimately worried that ing any queries that are sent to them. a chance to connect to a much wider like riding a bicycle. Practice make as a creature of habit he jumped out of On the site now there is a ratio of about range of shadchonim than would be permanent. bed and got into his car on a day that 60% girls to 40% boys. About 30 to 40% possible without ChabadMatch. driving is forbidden. put up pictures. The administrator finds Second is the acceptance that no one that pictures are a plus to have on one’s Here are some success stories at Cha- can change you, and you can’t change If we want to break a habit and acquire a profile, although a shadchan can always badMatch: A shidduch was proposed to anyone else. You must admit your own new one, we have to remember learning ask for one when necessary, but it helps a girl’s family, but the parents had some need, stop denying, accept responsibil- to ride a bicycle. We have to believe it initially to receive that extra attention. reservation, and the shidduch did not ity for changing yourself and ask for will work, make our move and stick go though. Some time later the girl’s help if necessary. to it. 10 CROWN HEIGHTS Newspaper ~July 4, 2008 From Shedlitz to Safety A Young Jew’s Story of Survival By Rabbi Shimon Goldman to draw encouragement and strength prospering businesses. After years of Notwithstanding the recent unspeak- from the Amshinover Rebbe. Moreover, wandering and deprivation, we were able calamities, Jews were determined Exerpted from the book with the author’s we received an explicit directive from pleasantly surprised to see these normal to live complete, wholesome lives, in permission the Rebbe Rayatz to consult with the aspects of life again. both the physical and spiritual sense. Continued from previous issue Amshinover in all circumstances — even in life-and-death matters. This Naturally, the American way of life I felt a sense of tranquility that evening; AMERICA direct instruction underscored the differed greatly from our accustomed my friends shared the same feeling. greatness of the Amshinover Rebbe.) habits. Besides obvious differences, The balmy weather also Crossing the Ocean there was an emotional element also contributed to our general feeling of Aside from the uncomfortable condi- involved. There is a common saying, contentedness. We enjoyed the warm We left with nary a backward tions we had to contend with, our inner “Calamities are forgotten quickly; days and comfortable nights, having glance. Immediately upon boarding the feelings were markedly different when happy events are long remembered.” In never experienced such pleasant cli- ship, we felt overwhelming gratitude compared to previous travels. On our our case however, we could not shake matic conditions before in Poland. towards Hashem for His kindness to earlier trips from to Japan and, off the fresh horrors of war. We could us. As though in a dream, we watched later, from Japan to China, we were flee- never forget that our families were After the dinner, Rabbi Hecht divided our ship steam out of the port — leaving ing Nazism or Communism. As such, butchered, our communities destroyed, us into pairs, sending us to sleep in vari- behind the Chinese, the Japanese, and these trips were fraught with unease our friends killed. These depressing ous home around the neighborhood. I the local Jewish community. We could and uncertainty. However, now as we thoughts hampered our efforts to was paired with Hirshel Fuks, and we hardly believe we were on our way to crossed the ocean toward America, we integrate with American society but, stayed at the beautiful home of a Jew- America, to our friends, to the Rebbe. felt serene and confident, realizing we as time progressed, we slowly became ish barber and his wife. They viewed Soon we could once again begin a life of were starting a new lease on life. accustomed to our new way of life. us as G dly angels — survivors of the and prayer, unhampered by Nazi inferno who arrived in America war or trouble. The unfathomable ways I cannot remember the exact duration A Warm Welcome complete with Chassidic garb and full of Hashem raced through our minds of our journey, but one morning we beards. In fact, the barber’s wife even — how Divine Providence ordained awoke to loud shouts. We clambered up The organizers of our welcoming com- gave us a pidyon nefesh, asking that who should live and who should perish; on deck and the sailors told us we would mittee had arranged three separate we pray on her behalf! She also gave us who remained with family and who reach American shores within twenty- events to welcome us in our new home. some money, and refused to accept our remained alone; who would survive in four hours. We hardly slept that night, They divided our group into three, so explanation that were not really holy good health and who would suffer for waiting impatiently to finally reach our that we could be represented at each of people. We later divided the money long afterwards. destination. Sure enough, the very next these welcoming affairs. Ten bochurim among our entire group. day, we watched in wonder as the port traveled to Seattle, Washington; another Our trip was uncomfortable and rough. city of San Francisco came into view. ten went to Los Angeles; and ten stayed We stayed in Los Angeles for a few days The ship rocked and pitched in the tur- The sailors pointed out the gigantic in San Francisco. and then caught a train to Chicago. bulent waters, making us feel clammy Golden Gate Bridge, enjoying our cries From there we planned to travel to New and nauseous. Our cabins contained of amazement as we sailed near the large I joined the Los Angeles group. We York, to see the Rebbe again. When army bunk beds that offered us only bridge. As the ship docked in the port, arrived to find an elaborate affair we stopped in Chicago, we went to thin, lumpy mattresses, but the constant we continued gaping in wonder at the organized in our honor — the first visit the Bnei Reuven synagogue. The queasiness kept many bochurim in these modern structures of the city. yeshiva students to escape the European rabbi was Rabbi Avraham Mordechai “beds” throughout the entire trip. Aside Holocaust and arrive in America. The Hershberg, a prolific Torah scholar who from our group, there were also many Barely had the crew lowered the dinner was held in a huge, elegant hall, later became the Chief Rabbi of Mexico. other refugees on the boat, including disembarking ramp when hordes of and thousands of people participated I knew Rabbi Hershberg from Vilna, students of Mir and other yeshivos also journalists ran up on the ship, eager in the event. It was a very moving and when I spent hours visiting the students on their way to America. to interview us. News of our arrival emotional evening. Rabbi Hecht, the of the Chachmei yeshiva, where had preceded us by a few days, and the organizer of the reception, addressed Rabbi Hershberg also studied. Even I previously mentioned Reb Yisrael American public was interested in hear- the crowd with heartfelt words, bring- then he was considered a prodigy and, David Rosenberg, a bochur with great ing a report about the very first group of ing many people to tears. He began at the age of eighteen, had authored musical talent. During our trip, Yisrael war survivors to arrive in America. The by pronouncing the Shehechiyanu a work on the order of Kodshim that David experienced a long spell of sea- journalists clambered around, asking blessing aloud and explained that earned him a wide reputation among sickness, and spent many days in bed. A questions and snapping pictures, when when one meets another person after the Torah scholars of Poland. true musical artist, Yisrael David used they suddenly spied the Amshinover an extended period of time, and the the time to compose many new nig- Rebbe. His patriarchal features and meeting generates genuine feelings of Needless to say, I was overjoyed to see gunim, one of which was later printed holy countenance made an incredible elation, it becomes appropriate to thank a familiar face again. We greeted each in HaKriah v’HaKedusha, a periodical impression on the journalists and they Hashem by reciting Shehechiyanu. other warmly and entered into conver- published by the Rebbe. turned their fullest attention to the “Indeed, there is no greater joy than sation. Due to familiarity, I addressed Rebbe. Cameras flashed and whirred our meeting tonight,” proclaimed Rabbi the eminent rabbi by his personal name, The ship also carried many soldiers as they photographed the Rebbe, and Hecht. “After years of wandering and but he quickly corrected my effron- home from the battlefield, together with his picture later ran in many prominent want, the bochurim have escaped to tery. “You can’t just call me ‘Avraham a large crew of sailors and maintenance American newspapers, all describing a new home. Meeting temimim from Moshe,’” he said. “Here I am the rabbi; workers. One of these, a black sailor, the Rebbe as a holy, spiritual person. Poland is a great joy, one that definitely you must address me as Harav, Mara never tired of greeting us on deck. warrants a Shehechiyanu.” D’asra.” I happily complied. Whenever he saw us, this crewmember The reporters finally left us alone and would stop his chores and instantly we were able to disembark. The Rebbe’s A gifted speaker, Rabbi Hecht con- After our visit to Chicago, we proceeded bellow Moshe’s demand to Pharaoh: eldest son-in-law — the Rashag — had tinued his address for some time, toward our final destination — the “LET MY PEOPLE GO!” He wanted sent two representatives from Tomchei captivating the audience with his city of New York. Upon our arrival, to impress us with his “knowledge” of Tmimim to greet us. Rabbis Yosef sincere words. When he finished, he we immediately took a car to Tomchei the Bible, but we understood no English Wineberg and Moshe Yitzchak Hecht invited us to address the audience, and Tmimim, hearts beating with the and could not appreciate his efforts. welcomed us at the immigration center Reb Elya Moshe Liss rose to thank the anticipation of meeting our fellow and escorted us to the lodgings they crowd and say a few words. Though the students once again. It was only natural On this trip, as in Shanghai, we were for- had previously prepared. Our group evening was dedicated in our honor, it that Tomchei Tmimim would be our tunate to have the Amshinover Rebbe consisted of twenty-nine bochurim and became a demonstration of a united first stop. Many students there had accompany us. (I have mentioned this Reb Elya Moshe Liss, a widower. Jewry, proving to the entire world that shared hard times with us in Vilna and saintly tzaddik so many times through- — despite the horrific Holocaust — the Shanghai, and we could barely wait to out this account that it might appear I A new world suddenly opened before Jewish nation had endured and would see them again. am an Amshinover Chassid! However, us. We saw undamaged, comfortable remain vibrant. The huge audience I simply cannot forget how, during all houses, populated synagogues, children shouted an unspoken message: the Jew- our troubles and travails, we merited who looked healthy and happy, and ish people would never be obliterated. July 4, 2008 ~ crOWN heights Newspaper 11

Rebbe’s Story “When one tells a story about his Rebbe he connects to the deeds of the Rebbe” The Rebbe to Rabbi NM Bernhard: (Sichos 1941 pg. 68) “Jewish life today is being devastated, as if by a fire, and whoever can extin- Jewish life today is being devastated, as guish the fire must do so.” if by a fire, and whoever can extinguish the fire must do so. “From all over the world his followers come--to consult the new “Rabbi of The Rebbe pointed his finger at me: Lubavitch” on matters of faith, health, “You have no right to sit and become family, and finance. They seek him a talmid chacham [scholar].” I said out on social issues and psychological that I could fulfill my obligation by problems--on everything which might giving a class, but the Rebbe responded, affect their spiritual, physical and mate- “How many people will you affect, 20 rial well-being, and make no vital move or 30?” without him.” I mentioned I was offered a Principal’s Charles Haddock position. I would like to present part one of The Rebbe said again, “You will only an interview with Rabbi Nachman influence 200 or 400 children in a Meir Bernhard, former Rabbi of the big school. Hashem has given you the prestigious Oxford Synagogue in Johan- skills and strength to lead an entire nesburg, . He experienced community.” He urged me to utilize fascinating encounters with the Rebbe my potential to the fullest. in Yechidus regarding his work as Rabbi I still resisted. and the future of Judaism in South Africa. The following is an excerpt “I have already left an important posi- from the new book on the Rebbe “The tion for the sake of my children’s Rebbe Inspiring A Generation” www. education. What will happen to them inspiringageneration.com in South Africa?” By then, I had three daughters. I received my Rabbinic ordination in 1958 and left for my first position in The Rebbe answered that the children Wichita, Kansas. Once, Rabbi Yosef of every Jew who devotes himself Wineberg came to Wichita on the to communal work receive Divine behest of the Rebbe. I met him, but I protection. had no idea he was a Lubavitcher. The Rebbe didn’t exactly tell me “go,” We left Wichita five years later and but he calmed my fears about going to returned to New York when our eldest South Africa. daughter was of school age. The Ortho- When I went out of the Rebbe’s room, dox Union asked me to be their New I said to myself, “I may not yet be a York director. I accepted the position. Lubavitcher Chasid, but from now on Within a few months I was asked to I am the Rebbe’s Chasid.” become Rabbi of the largest synagogue in South Africa. We arrived in South Africa in 1966, a few weeks before Rosh Hashana. Not feeling drawn to the Rabbinate Whenever I was offered exciting posi- and wanting to pursue my studies, I tions in other parts of the world, I asked declined. But they insisted that I at least the Rebbe. come and see the place. The Rebbe always answered me that After my visit, I read a friend’s report South Africa was my proper place, that about a lecture tour to South Africa. I was there by Divine Providence, that The report mentioned Rabbi Yosef my situation was improving, and that Wineberg. The name rang a bell, and G-d would help. I thought maybe it was worthwhile to hear his opinion about the proposed After three years, the government position. wanted to throw me out because of my opposition to apartheid. I didn’t call for I met with Rabbi Wineberg and told an open rebellion. I just spoke from the him my hesitations. He firmly insisted Jewish heart and conscience. I said that that I go there. “They need a young, we should work to bring about change dynamic rabbi like you,” he said. Rabbi legally and within the system. But the Wineberg didn’t give up easily and sug- prospect of deportation did not upset gested that I ask the Rebbe. “I would if me at all. The Rebbe had wanted me to you arranged it,” I told him. be there, so I was. But if I was deported, It was after 1 a.m. when I entered the I would be able to move to Israel. Rebbe’s office and saw the Rebbe for the first time in my life. The yechidut [personal audience] lasted for over an hour. I felt as if the whole world around us had disappeared and ACCOUNTING OFFICE IN WIL- it was only the Rebbe and I. LIAMSBURG SEEKS FEMALE WITH BKPR & ACCOUNTING. This yechidus took place a year after KNOWLEDGE PLEASE CALL 718 I had left both the Rabbinate and the 599-6111 LEAVE MESSAGE OR ; I had devoted myself EMAIL TO [email protected] to learning full time. In the yechidus, the Rebbe told me that 12 CROWN HEIGHTS Newspaper ~July 4, 2008 Parshas Hashavua

only to Moshe and no one else. there is a vertical line (indicating a ”pause) between the word “lo” — “no )חיד”א - פני דוד( Vedibarta Bam ~ Chukat By: Rabbi Moshe Bogomilsky — and the words “mekom zera” — of the purification animal.” (19:17) Throughout the history of the Jewish “place of seed.” This vertical line serves people the ashes of nine red heifers זאת חקת התורה...“ QUESTION: Since the parshah is as an explanation as to what the people were prepared, and the tenth one will ויקחו אליך פרה discussing one who has become defiled complained about. .be prepared when Mashiach comes ”אדמה and has already said that the heifer (See Yalkut Re’uveini and Parah 3:5.) When Hashem took them out of Egypt, “This is the statute should be burned to ash, the word When Hashem conveyed to Moshe He never promised them that He of Torah...and they “latamei” — “for the contaminated the statute of the red heifer, He said to would provide them with luscious fruit shall take to you a person” — is superfluous, it should him, “veyikchu eilecha parah adumah” during their travels. However, it is self- red heifer.” (19:2) simply have said “velakechu mei’afar” — “they shall take to you a completely understood that He was required to give — “they shall take from the ashes [and QUESTION: Why red heifer” — which our sages explain them at least the bare necessities and put upon it spring water]”? does it say “Zot chukat haTorah” to mean, “It will always be accredited not let them perish from thirst. — “This is the statute of the Torah” ANSWER: The Torah refers to the to ‘you’ (Moshe) because even in the Consequently, when they arrived in — instead of “Zot chukat parah adu- purification process through the red ashes of all future red heifers there shall the Wilderness of Tzin and there was mah” — “This is the statute of the red heifer as a “chok” — a “statute” — be mixed in some of the ash from the no water, the people became upset heifer”? meaning that it is incomprehensible to original one which you prepared.” and quarreled with Moshe. When man. Even King Shlomo the wis­est of all ANSWER: The laws concerning the The acrostic of “ ” which is spelled they bemoaned their situation they למשה ,men exclaimed, “I said I would be wise parah adumah are paradoxical. On the by the words “ ” proclaimed, “Why did you take us out לטמא מעפר שריפת החטאת .(but it is far from me” (Ecclesiastes 7:23 one hand, when the mixture is sprinkled — “[and they shall take] for the con- of Egypt to bring us to this place? ‘Lo’ Our sages (Midrash Rabbah 19:3,6) on the defiled person he becomes taminated person some of the ashes (pause) — our complaint is not — explain that with his wisdom he thought cleansed. On the other hand, those who from the burning of the purification ‘mekom zera ute’einah vegefen verimon’ he would be able to comprehend the are involved in the preparation of the animal” indicates that throughout all — that this is not a place of seed, fig, or reason for the red heifer, but he did not parah adumah become defiled. generations the Jewish people shall take grape or pomegranate — because we suc­ceed; Moshe was the only one to for the contaminated, ashes which are can get along without these. However, The people appointed to prepare the whom Hashem explained it. mixed together with some of the ashes our complaint is ‘mayim ayin lishtot’ parah adumah may rationally argue, there is no water to drink. Water is a — (שפתי כהן) .The Gemara (Rosh Hashanah 21b) prepared by Moshe “Why should we become defiled for the explains the pasuk “Kohelet (Shlomo) bare necessity for human existence!” “ותמת שם מרים ותקבר שם” sake of those who were not careful to )קהלת יצחק( avoid contact with a corpse?” “ודברתם אל הסלע לעיניהם ונתן And Miriam died there and she“ מימיו” (Through the statute of parah adumah was buried there.” (20:1 the Torah is teaching that a Jew must QUESTION: If she died, obvi- help another Jew even if it requires “And speak to the rock before their eyes ously she was buried. Why does sacrifice. This is “chukat haTorah” — “a that it shall give its waters.” (20:8) the pasuk mention it? basic principle of Torah” — and though QUESTION: Why now did Hashem we may not easily comprehend it, we ANSWER: When the spies instruct Moshe to speak to the rock must practice it in our daily lives. returned from their journey to whereas in Rephidim (Shemot 17:6), Eretz Yisrael and incited the )כ”ק אדמו”ר( when they thirsted for water and people against it, Hashem was complained, Hashem told him, “You very angry. As a punishment, all shall strike the rock and water will There is a popular adage, “Give till it the people who had left Egypt come forth”? hurts.” Unfortunately, many people sought to find words of delight” (Eccle- between the ages of twenty and sixty give when it hurts, but very few give till siastes 12:10) to mean that Kohelet perished during the forty years they ANSWER: Hashem said to Moshe, it hurts. The statute of parah adumah, wanted to be equal in wisdom to Moshe. sojourned in the wilderness. Every “When the child is young his teacher which is described as “the statute of However, a Heavenly voice responded, year, on Erev Tisha B’Av, the people hits him and teaches him. Once he Torah,” teaches us to help another Jew “Vekatub yosher divrei emet,” what is dug graves for themselves and slept becomes older, he reprimands him even if it hurts. written in the Book of Devarim (which in them throughout the night. Those with words. Similarly, when the rock is known as “Sefer Hayasher” — “Book who were supposed to die that year was small you hit it, but now you shall “זאת התורה אדם כי ימות באהל” of Fairness” — see Avodah Zarah passed away, and those that survived speak to it. Teach it and it will bring “This is the teaching regarding a man 25a), are words of truth, and it states returned to their tents (Bava Batra forth water” (Yalkut Shimoni). who would die in a tent.” (19:14) that “Never again has there arisen in 121a, Rashbam). This may be further expounded: The Israel a prophet like Moshe” (Devarim QUESTION: Regarding this pasuk Accordingly, throughout the forty rock is analogous to people who at 34:10). the Gemara (Berachot 63b) says: “Ein years, the people were first buried and times seem to be “hard as rock” and divrei Torah mitkaymin ela bemi What gave Shlomo the idea that he then died. Miriam was the first person obstinately refuse to direct their lives shemeimit atzmo aleihah” — “Torah could duplicate Moshe’s achievement to die and be buried after her death. morally and ethically as a Jew should. )שני המאורות( has a lasting effect only with one who and understand the concept of the red The incident in Rephidim occurred kills himself for it.” heifer? before the Torah was given. The only “ולמה העליתנו ממצרים להביא אתנו method available then to guide a Jew אל המקום הרע הזה לא | מקום זרע לטמא “ מעפרSuicide is forbidden! How can a dead The first letters of the words in the right path was to strike him ותאנה וגפן ורמון ומים אין לשתות” can be arranged to spell ”שריפת החטאת ?man study Torah “ ” (Shlomo), and since he found an harshly. The episode in our parshah And why did You have us ascend from“ שלמה ANSWER: Often when people sit down allusion to his name in the portion that however, took place after the Torah to study, they permit various factors Egypt to bring us to this evil place? discusses the red heifer, he assumed that was given. The way to reach a Jew to interrupt them, such as a telephone Not a place of seed, or fig, or grape, or with proper diligence and assiduous now, is not through striking him, but call or the arrival of visitors. There is pomegranate; and there is no water to study he could understand its meaning through talking to him with sincerity no way, however, of disturbing a dead drink!” (20:5) and significance. and warmth and introducing him to person with a telephone call or the like. QUESTION: If a poor man were to the beauty of Torah. The Gemara is teaching that a person The Heavenly message can be explained come begging and say, “Help me, I who wants to succeed in his learning to mean “Vekatub yashar” — “That The Torah assures that with such don’t have any gourmet food,” people must consider himself “dead”: He which is written in the “proper order” an approach one will successfully would laugh at him. The Jewish people cannot permit anything whatsoever to — is definitely “divrei emet” — “words penetrate and “venatan meimav” — should have only complained that interrupt him. of truth.” Thus, while there is indeed a “he shall give his waters.” One will they had no water to drink. What hint to Shlomo’s name in the parshah, eventually bring to surface the beautiful )ר’ אפרים זלמן ז”ל מרגלית( sympathy did they hope to evoke with the letters in sequence do not spell “pintele Yid” — the spark of Judaism their complaint about “figs, grapes, or “ולקחו לטמא מעפר שרפת החטאת” “Shlomo” but rather “ ” — “to hidden within him. ?”pomegranates למשה )שמעתי מאחי הרב שמואל פסח שי’ -They shall take for the contaminated Moshe” — meaning that the under“ באגאמילסקי( person some of the ashes of the burning standing of the red heifer is revealed ANSWER: In printed chumashim July 4, 2008 ~ crOWN heights Newspaper 13

A Tribute to Rabbi Yossi Schildkraut and his guests chinuch. Two years ago, this was effectively a speech about how he loves coming Menachem and Feighy Shagalov, an addressed, Boruch Hashem, by the cre- here to the Rebbe, and all he’s asking open home every year to the family of ation an exclusive mosad: The Shluchim from the Rebbe is for Yiddishkeit for Luiz Kignel. They extend their warmest Online School. his family and his kids. He was crying hospitality in the most chassidishe way. with emotion. After he finished to say This unique mosad has shluchim raving That is the most priceless thing we can L’chaim they were dancing around as it continues to make all the difference give them to take back to . Rabbi the table and singing and screaming in raising and educating thousands of Yossi, thank you for continuously help- for about an hour. They sang Yechi young shluchim on shlichus all over the ing and extending yourself for anyone

HaMelech, Yechi Adoneinu, and in the world, effectively eliminating a problem who reaches out to you. All the brochos By Moshe Rubashkin middle they called out, “Yiddishkeit, that has persisted for nearly 50 years. The should come speedily to you and your A Gut Chodesh. A Gut Shabbos. A Gut Yiddishkeit, Yiddishkeit!” Whoever Shluchim Online School has revolution- family. You should continue doing Yom Tov. was there will never forget the emotions ized the education of young shluchim and the beautiful work in your beautiful and feelings that were expressed in the the very nature of shlichus itself. mossed. I thank you in the name of the All the Rebbe’s children are coming room. community for all the help you have We are also announcing the naming of to the Rebbe to spend Shabbos and given us and will continue to give us. the Boys School by Mr. & Mrs. Meyer & Gimmel Tammuz together. I would All I can say is that Rabbi Yossi Schil- Lilian Nigri & Family and unveiling its like to welcome all the Shluchim that dkraut did not forget his roots. He did new logo. are coming, especially Rabbi Yossi not forget from where he came from. Schildkraut who is bringing hundreds He is a dugma chai with his open heart, Major plans of baalei batim to the Rebbe. I saw helping all the Shluchim that come to and significant personally how they live from year him. When the Rebbe speaks about improvements are to year waiting anxiously to come to HaMaaseh Hu Haikar this is Rabbi in store for next Crown Heights to spend time with Yossi Schildkraut. his real desire is year. Meanwhile, Chassidim in the Rebbe’s daled amos. to see Crown Heights blossoming in we look forward to There are no words to give over the joy every which way. I’m the first one to giving your son(s) and Yiddishkeit that they take back experience HaMaaseh Hu HaIkar, and/or daughter(s) from the Rebbe and the Chassidim. when I flew to Brazil on behalf of the the chassidishe This year the group included wives Shechuna and asked Reb Yossi to help chinuch that all who are accompanying their husbands. me raise money for the shechuna, Reb young shluchim Every year Gimmel Tammuz farbren- Yossi put his whole heart into helping deserve. gen around 12 o’clock they march into me help the shechuna. 770 and sing Yechi. They dance on I would like to the tables, and they are for real. They There is one particular person, who share some com- bring in a tremendous chayus to the deserves the title Sar Shel Chesed: ments that I heard whole farbrengen with their singing and Mayer Nigri. When I came to see Reb from Rabbi Yossi simcha. It’s just astonishing. That’s all Yossi, he set up an appointment for about the guests and their feelings about We met on wednesday with the new they pray for, is for Yiddishkeit and to me with Mayer Nigri. I met him at their repeated trips to Crown Heights C.O. of the 71st Precinct, Peter Simo- see the Rebbe. These are professional his home. Mayer Nigry heard me out and the Rebbe. The group as a whole had netti at the 71st precinct. people--bankers, lawyers, architects, and not only did he give what I asked a minhag that after Davening they go to builders and so on. but he gave more than I asked, and he farbreng upstairs with Reb Meir Itkin It was a very warm meeting, the new continues to give for the Shchuna. This OBM in the back room’s I would to like to share a little more is his first time coming together with Zal. They were amazed at about this special trip and about Rabbi the group. He will spend Shabbos and how Reb. Meir would say Yossi Schildkraut. This is Reb Yossi’s Gimmel Tammuz together with the L’echaim on 180 proof and tenth year bringing in the baalei batim. group from Brazil. with his warm beautiful It started with 16 from Sao Paulo, Brazil smile would look at them and now bli ayin hara he has a couple of During his stay he will be honored by straight in the eyes laugh- hundred from all over Brazil. This year for his endowment ing. There is one younger there is a special program for wives as of the Mayer and Lillian Nigri School man that came with the well. There are , speakers, for Boys. Joining them will be Rabbi group, not shomer shab- davening in 770, and a grand brunch in Yossi Schildkraut. For all of you who bos not connected at all. the Shluchim Office. Trips to the , are not familiar with the The Shluchim When he came into this shiurim after davening, and a Yeshiva Online School, listen to the words of farbrengen and saw how day in Goetzel’s shul. I have had, Baruch Rabbi Moshe Shemtov the Director of my older brother Yossi CO Peter Simonetti is reaching out to Hashem, the zechus to host Shabbos the School: walked over the table stepping on top all the community leaders and to the lunch for the whole group for the last of all that was there, he could not believe Dear Shliach and Shluchah : mosdos to understand the community his eyes. Rabbi Yossi Schildkraut tells שיחיו seven years, bli ayin hara. The varmkeit needs. We wish him much success dur- from the baalei batim is indescribable— Since 5767, a quiet revolution has been me that that scene by itself turned him ing his tenure in our neighborhood. their yearning for Yiddishkeit, both taking place in the world of shlichus. around to where he is today: shomer for their families and for themselves. shabbos, building a family, where you One of the often-heartbreaking daily Yinghy Bistritzky, Dr Tzvi Lang, One year, one of the baalei batim gave could say a chassidishe younger man. challenges of shlichus life was that of Chanina Sperlin, Jay Goldstein, Moshe I asked Rabbi Yossi what did he see? Rubashkin He saw the pshutos of walking over the table with all the food on it, and that We would also like to announce that took him. The baal habatim spending B”H the pool will be open to the com- time at the homes in Crown Heights munity. The pool area itself is complete; is another main attraction. There they the locker room will need another few see real yiddishkeit and real nachas, weeks. Due to the hot weather we are the interaction of the kids and the not waiting to fully complete all the families. They come year after year construction, please bare with us in the and spend time with the same families. meantime. We are really trying our best They bond to each other and go to each to finish the work fast. other’s simchas. It is also good to announce that the One particular home is the one of Continued on page 15 14 CROWN HEIGHTS Newspaper ~July 4, 2008

Pictures taken at Thursday's breakfast by Meir Alfasi July 4, 2008 ~ crOWN heights Newspaper 15

CHJCC is initiating a new program Lewis and all those who supported have interesting and uplifting outings. Whereas the girls are really educating for the summer. It is called Ora Chaya and gave their time and kochos to the Please call Phillis Mintz for all the themselves in every aspect, the boys Mushka, and it is for the high school program. particulars. are out to lunch! I feel that if we could girls twice a week, where the girls can put together a good program on these Another program that has been very I would like to see a playgroup built come and hear lectures, and spend time subjects we would see immediate posi- successfull B"H is the Shalhevet Pro- for the young mothers to take out the in a chassidishe, warm enivironment tive results. As for the moment there gram. Every Wednesday girls from kids, like a kiddie park. We have two and have their own space. is no real education in these subjects grades 7th and 8th from all Crown places we are deciding upon, it would available to bochrim. Today is the one year anniversary of Heights schools would meet and sing, be lifesaving for the young couples and Nightlife which has had an immense dance, do arts and crafts, mingle, in a the young mothers. I am looking for I would like to thank the whole com- success and has brought enjoyment, chassidishe atmospere. We thank the a sponsor so that we could build the munity for giving me the opportunity knowledge and friendship to the hun- girls who put effort into making it the playground in the memory of a beloved to serve, in the most positive way. These dreds of girls who attended. success that it was. relative. It would be a tremendous uplift last 40 months were really an education for the community. for me. What it means Avodas Haklal Special thanks to the staff, Chaya Sarah I would like to inform the community and Zorchei Tzibur. There is no right or Zarchi Craindy Kline Rivka Shur that B"H the CHJCC has had once A potential shliach is being interviewed. wrong, there is really one way and that Suri Cement Rochel Leah Shapiro, again a tremendously successful year His mission would be to open a beis is the ' way. That is plain and Zisha Grossbaum, Mimi Notik, Chana giving out scholarships for camp, all medrash. To learn with young adults, simple to have Ahavas Yisroel. done in a very positive way. Special bochrim back from shilchus, young men thanks to Philis Mintz for making it that did not go on shlichus, working I'd like to wish everyone a healthy happen and for handling everything boys etc. To create shiurim and most and wealthy summer. May everyone's in her inimitable way. importantly classes on such subjects tefilos be answers for the good, speedily as: how to behave on a date, how to and may it be a Summer of strength- A special thanks to Rabbi Veli Karp know what to look for in a spouse, ening and rejuvenatiing ourselves. for coming up with the idea that every how to talk to a wife, how to build a Moshiach Now. Sunday the CHJCC enable families to lasting relationship and a solid home. 16 CROWN HEIGHTS Newspaper ~July 4, 2008

On the Derech – Harnessing the Power of Expression

By Yonason Gordon tion” (geulah). This Alef, aside from Eventually, I learned to confront these of creative expression, recognized as representing the “one” G-d (Alufo Shel imageries and fancies head on. With a something of great importance? In a letter the Rebbe very thoroughly Olam), also represents the experience little bit of effort, and a lot of , explains the difference between sup- of wonder (Keter). we can all learn to see the good. Open Personality pressing sin (iskafia) and transforming sin to merit (is’hapcha). The Rebbe The second is recognition that we are Creative Expression Rabbi Ginsburgh calls this approach explains, the latter is especially relevant part of . The Rebbe is the being an “open” individual. Not open to Baalei Teshuvah (I Will Write It In head of the generation, and dutifully, Children sense inhibition. Life is not, in the sense that we don’t recognize the Their Hearts, Vol. 4, P. 46). we are following his directives. as western culture believes, a fight influences that are out there. Rather, between good and evil. There is only that nothing threatens us, and to the While attending Yeshiva University, Transforming Darkness into Light good. And if we need more good, then contrary, we have the potential to prior to becoming Lubavitch, I often we just need to shine the light a little transform any experience. Ulitimately, frequented the TV room late at night. Given the great potential that we have more intensely. Like myself and those “doing good” (asei tov) is much more Two, Three, Four in the morning, I in this generation, why is it that children two other Lubavitchers mentioned, powerful than turning away from would watch pretty much whatever lack Jewish excitement, and even, chos a person inclined to Chassidus, and evil (sur meirah). Material that is was on (mostly science fiction related). v’sholom, involve themselves in secular especially the teachings of the Rebbe, censored or banned can receive even Sharing this experience where two activities? is looking for more out of life. more attention that what it did previ- other fellows, both people who I later ously. Much more potent, however, is found out came from Lubavitch homes. As the Rebbe explained at length in the When this creative drive is suppressed, to simply replace that material with Out of a 1,000 students at YU, what aforementioned letter, Chassidus favors then other aspects of the world around something better. To transform rather are the odds that three of them would the opinion that we can transform our us may seem more interesting. Mov- than suppress. have already, or soon benefit, from the experiences into good. To suppress ies, Video Games, Internet, etc… are teachings of the Rebbe? and push away untoward influences their way of calling out for help. To try For other source material to this is one level. But midas haChassidus, and get them to stop these activities, approach, as it relates to the purifying Rabbi several years especially relevant for Baalei Teshuva, to suppress this urge, is one level. of the Parah Adumah (mentioned in back answered a person who was tested is to completely transform. Midas Chassidus seems to teach that Parshas Chukas), please visit: www. with the same material I had previously we should rather harness the “great sichosinenglish.org/books/likkutei- been. Aside from studying the Agadot Throughout my spiritual journey, I had strength of the ox” for good. sichot-9/39.htm (adapted from Sichos of Chazal (Ein Ya’akov, Midrash, all sorts of disturbing thoughts occur Shabbos Parshas Chukas, 5710, Shab- Tanchuma, etc…) the advice was to to me. When I would write, and later Unite and Conquer bos Parshas Chukas-Balak, 5712). dream of the coming of Mashiach; call Rabbi Ginsburgh, I would always to picture it clearly in ones mind. In receive a very simple answer. Confu- In our generation, we have the ability to Although I am no expert, if someone a recent lecture, Rabbi Ginsburgh sion, it seemed, came from a lack of confront our experiences head on, and would like to contact me, I to help developed this further. As I interpreted clarity. If we had vision and purpose unite the mundane with an experience advice on actualizing the above wher- lessons from his class (please email me (points 1) and 2) mentioned above), of G-dliness and wonder. Personally ever I can. My email is ysgordon@ to receive a copy of the original when then all else would fade away. speaking, when I see something unfold gmail.com (for boys and men). Emails available), the two most important in the news, I try and write an essay con- from women and girls will be forwarded lessons to convey to a child is that 1) Today if I see something unpleasant necting this topic to Chassidus. I then on to my wife, Hila. We are living in a time where we need (immodest, immoral, etc…), my natural send it off to selected media outlets, and Yonason Gordon has been involved in the to simply “open our eyes” to experience inclination (as with many), is to sharply sometimes, the person or organization Jewish writing and publishing fields for the wonder, and, 2) To recognize that push it off. In time, I realized these responsible for the story genuinely likes over seven years. For those interested in the Rebbe, Rosh Bnei Yisroel, leads and experiences never completely left me. the essay. Most recently, it was from a helping promote the teachings of Rabbi directs us to this goal. Yes, they were suppressed and shoved person who was being interviewed by Ginsburgh in the NY area (through time into some unconscious realm. But at major media outlets worldwide. This and funding), please email Yonason at The first point is described as the experi- times, especially in dreams, they would is the power of Chassidus. What child [email protected]. ence of the letter Alef entering “exile” manifest. wouldn’t be excited by having their (golus) to transform it to “redemp- essay, artwork, music, or other form

Newly discovered images of the Lubavitcher Rebbe and Chassidim 1972 - 1973 July 4, 2008 ~ crOWN heights Newspaper 17

Vedibarta Bam ~ Pirkei Avos The numerical value of “yud” when (Bereishit 18:27). King David said squared (10 x 10) is one hundred. The “Ve’anochi tola’at velo ish” — “I am Uborei’ach min ha’aveirah shemitzvah square of “hei” is twenty-five (5 x 5). only a worm and not a man” (Psalms“ “הוי רץ למצוה קלה ובורח מן gorerret.” The Mishnah means to say The square of “vav” is thirty-six (6 x 22:7). Moshe said of himself “Venachnu העבירה” “Run to [perform even] an easy mitzvah, that one should flee from the aveirah 6), and the square of the final “hei” is mah” — “What are we [we are noth- and flee from transgression.” (4:2) that a mitzvah “dragged in.” Avoid twenty-five (5 x 5). Thus, 100 + 25 + ing]” (Shemot 16:7). QUESTION: Why in regard to a “mitz- halachically questionable activities 36 + 25 = 186. The first three letters of the names vah” does the Mishnah state specifically for the sake of a good purpose believ- Moshe” ( ), “Avraham” ( ), and“ “רבי לויטס איש יבנה אומר: מאד מאד אברהם משה ,mitzvah kallah” — “an easy (light or ing that the end justifies the means“ ”David” ( ) spell the word “me’od“ הוה שפל רוח” דוד minor)” — while concerning an “avei- because to ignore the means results in “Rabbi Levitas of Yavneh says: ‘Be of an ( ). Rabbi Levitas is advising us to מאד rah” there is no distinction made? “mitzvah ve’aveirah” — “a combination exceedingly humble spirit.’ ” (4:4) reflect upon these three giants whose of mitzvah and aveirah” — which will ANSWER: A person may consider acronym is “me’od.” When a person ultimately “gorerret aveirah” — “cause QUESTION: The words “me’od me’od” some mitzvot easy and enjoyable, and thinks of how insignificant he is in more aveirot to take place.” — “exceedingly” — are superfluous. It others difficult and tedious. However, comparison to them, “me’od hevei should have just said “Be of a humble )ממעינות הנצח( when one commits a transgression, shefal ru’ach” — one will indeed be of spirit”? (זרוע ימין – חיד”א) .humble spirit “ואין לך דבר שאין לו מקום” regardless of what it may be, to the “רבי יוסי אומר כל המכבד את התורה violator it is something which he enjoys “And no thing which does not have its ANSWER: The word “me’od” can גופו מכובד על הבריות” and considers light — minor — and he place.” (4:3) also mean wealth and affluence, as the transgresses it with ease. Only after- QUESTION: Instead of “makom” — “a Gemara (Berachot 54a) interprets the “Rabbi Yosei says, Whoever honors wards, when he comes to his senses, place” — why doesn’t he say “everything words “bechol me’odecha,” which are the Torah is himself given honor by does he realize the seriousness of his has a tzorech — purpose”? recited in the Shema. men.” (4:6) transgression and the gravity of his ANSWER: The Ba’al Shem Tov The Mishnah is teaching that even QUESTION: Why is it significant that brazen act, feeling pain and remorse explained the pasuk “Forever, O G‑d, when “me’od” — one is extremely great Rabbi Yosei is the author of this state- over it. Your word stands firm in the heavens” in “me’od” — riches and affluence — ment? Why did he talk about “gufo” — (Psalms 119:89) to mean that, “Your nevertheless, one should be humble, “the physical self” and not “nishmato” word”: “Let there be a firmament in the for mortal man has no justification for — “the spiritual self”? Also, instead of There are two words which are usually midst of the waters” (Bereishit 1:6) — conceit and arrogance, since ultimately “beriyot” — “creatures” — he should expressed both when doing a mitzvah or these very words and letters stand firmly all will be consumed by worms. have said “benei adam” — “people”? committing a transgression. The words )חיד”א - פתח עינים( forever within the firmament of heaven are “ah” and “oy,” and which comes first ANSWER: The Midrash Rabbah and are forever clothed within all the Bereishit 68:4) relates that a Roman) “מאד מאד הוי שפל רוח” and which afterwards depends on the heavens to give them life, as it is written, status of the act. “Be of an exceedingly humble spirit.” matron asked Rabbi Yosei some ques- “The word of our G‑d shall stand firm (4:4) tions about Hashem’s activities, and his A pious Chassid woke his son early forever” (Isaiah 40:8) and “His words QUESTION: Why is the word “me’od” reply to her was polite, and logical and one cold winter morning to take him live and stand firm forever” (Liturgy, repeated? accompanied by proofs from Torah. to the minyan. As the boy was getting Morning Prayer). For if the letters were Though her questions were in no way out from under the blankets he cried, to depart [even] for an instant, G‑d ANSWER: The rich person who is related to the seven Noachide laws, and “Oy, it is cold!” After shul was over, his forbid, and return to their source, all very generous cannot be arrogant if he thus, he perhaps halachically did not father asked him, “How do you feel the heavens would become naught and is unlearned in Torah. As soon as he have to entertain her questions at all, now, Chaim?” To which the lad replied, absolute nothingness, and it would be thinks of his Torah ignorance, he will nevertheless, he replied in order so that “Ah, a mechayeh! I feel wonderful!” as though they had never existed at all, realize how insignificant he is and be she not formulate a negative attitude The father pointed his finger and said, exactly as before the utterance. humble. Also, the great Torah scholar, towards Torah. In fact, in the end she “Chaim, let this experience be a lesson who is dependant on others to support This same thought was expressed by the admitted, “There is no G‑d like your to you through all your life. When one him, will be humble when he thinks of Arizal (Eitz Chaim, Sha’ar Man U’Mad, G‑d, your Torah is indeed beautiful performs a mitzvah, the ‘oy’ comes first his poverty and inability to maintain section 3), of blessed memory, when he and praiseworthy, and you spoke the and ‘ah’ comes afterward. But when himself. said that even in completely inanimate truth.” one commits an aveirah, the order is The word “me’od” ( ) is an acronym — ”The term “beriyot” — “creatures מאד ,matter, such as stones or earth or water reversed. ‘Ah, it is a mechayeh’ comes for “mimino eish dat” ( ) — includes people who lack any specific מימינו אש דת ,there is a soul and spiritual life-force first, and ‘Oy, what did I need it for’ “From His right hand he presented a fire that is, the en­clothing of the “Letters of virtues, and also non-Jews. The only comes later.” of law” (Devarim 33:2), which refers to speech of the Ten Utterances which give redeeming qua­lity they posses is that Torah. It is also an acronym for “maskil .life and existence to inanimate matter they are Hashem’s creatures (see p “ובורח מן העבירה שמצוה גוררת מצוה el dal” ( ) — “Who cares .(41 משכיל אל דל that it might arise out of the naught ועבירה גוררת עבירה” wisely for the needy” (Psalms 41:2), “Flee from transgression; for one and nothingness which preceded the Rabbi Yosei is teaching that every- and it is thus a reference to assisting mitzvah brings about another mitzvah Six Days of Creation.” one should promote the honor of the the needy. and one transgression brings another.” Torah in the eyes of all people, even Hashem is referred to as “HaMakom” Rabbi Levitas is saying that even if a (4:2) non-Jews. When a person endeavors — “The Place.” The Midrash Rabbah person is very learned in Torah, blessed QUESTION: Why is a rationale neces- to see that all men honor the Torah, (Bereishit 68:9) explains that this is to with affluence, and very charitable, sary? Even if one transgression does he in turn will receive honor from all emphasize that the world is contained nevertheless, he should not be conceited not bring about another, sin should be people, even those who are merely in Him and not He in the world. He but rather exceedingly humble. avoided. Hashem’s creations. Moreover, since )חתם סופר( is not limited by space and therefore such individuals have no conception of ANSWER: A certain organization present everywhere. spiritual things, the honor they give him wished to raise funds for the local The Mishnah is teaching to never reject Alternatively, in the Torah there were will be directed towards “gufo” — “his orphanage. To that end, they arranged anything because there is no thing three people who excelled in humil- physical person” — the dimension to for a theatrical production which which does not have “makom” — a ity. Avraham said “Ve’anochi afar which they relate. was somewhat immodest so that the spark of G‑dliness in it. va’eifer” — “I am but dust and ashes” )ביאורים לפרקי אבות( .orphanage could receive the proceeds )שער היחוד והאמונה פ”א - נוצר חסד( The Rabbi in this city was Rav Meir The longest running English in Leibush, known as the Malbim. Upon Crown Heights--26 years and still going hearing of this plan, he called in the PIRKEI AVOS SHIUR strong! According to Kabbalists, Hashem is organizers and told them to cancel the For Women and Girls referred to as “Makom” — “Place” — play. Even though it was clearly for the 5:30-6 PM Halachos of Tefilla with Rabbi Michoel Seligson because His Holy four letter Name, sake of a mitzvah, it contained a tint of A special gathering for Gimmel Tamuz with Shlucha DIni Greenberg from the Tetragrammaton ( - - - ) has the Shang Hai, China י ה ו ה .an aveirah numerical value of one hundred and Different Speaker on Pirkei Avos each week. ,(מקום) ”He supported his view by citing this eighty-six, the same as “makom Mishnah and quoted the words with a according to gematria beribu’a – numer- Congregation ANASH 770 Montgomery St. somewhat different division of words: ology involving “squares.” Use women's entrance on the side of the building. 18 CROWN HEIGHTS Newspaper ~July 4, 2008

Matters of Interest

Raising Financially Responsible Children est invention of all time?” Einstein responded, “Compounded interest”. Be By Mordy Schachter, more. These findings affirm that we are spending money. sure to tell your kids the value of com- Agent New York Life not doing a good job of teaching our There are proponents of an allowance pounding interest and remember, the Insurance Company kids about the value of money. Since the system for kids. They reason that allow- most important aspect of compounding habits and ideals that one embodies as The United States has ing kids to start handling their own is to start early. Explain to your child a parent will be passed on to the kids, one of the lowest sav- money can empower them with a sense that the younger he starts, the more he we must make sure that we are smart ings rates of industrial- of responsibility. However, at the same will earn. with our money. ized countries. You time, it is absolutely important that they Recommended Readings would think that we have gotten better Kids can mange money too earn the money. The message should be at saving in the last 30 years, when that this is the way society works. You We are the ones responsible for teaching I once overheard a fellow agent tell a in fact, we are only getting worse. To have to work for your money, and just our kids how to be fiscally responsible, client, “When you’re teaching your give some perspective - our savings like any job, “If you don’t do your work, and the time to act is now. Here are children to be financially responsible, rate is only one half a percent of our you don’t get paid.” some books which I believe will help it’s more than just teaching them how income. Incidentally, this is the lowest us get there. Money Still Doesn’t Grow to play a game of ‘Monopoly’. It’s about Where to save the money savings rate in history since the Great On Trees: A Parent’s Guide to Raising teaching them the importance of proper Depression! A Kid$ense survey showed that over Financially Responsible Teenagers and money management.” one-third of kids, ages 12-17, still use Young Adults by Neale S. Godfrey and If you want to teach responsibility, Throughout the course of our busy days, a “piggybank” to save money. Though for kids, Neale S. Godfrey’s Ultimate be responsible! we have opportunities to teach our this is an excellent way to teach young Kids’ Money Book. When it comes to raising financially children about proper money manage- children the power of saving for the Mordy Schachter is an Agent at New responsible children, we as parents ment. When you are out shopping, show future, it is important for children to York Life Insurance Company who have to set a good example. Kids your children how the same item will advance through fiscal training by the has recently qualified for “Council” cultivate their habits by watching what cost more at one store versus another. time they are teenagers, and move their status in his company. He has dedi- the grownups do. A recent Nuveen When you go to the bank, take your money to a bank account where they cated himself to servicing the Crown Kid$ense Money Survey showed that children along, and let them see how will earn real interest. Heights community. For any related over 58% of kids ages 12-17 wouldn’t a deposit is made and how money is A reporter once asked Albert Einstein, questions, please contact Mordy at bother to bend down and pick up money withdrawn. This way, they will become “What do you consider the great- (718) 915-3438. off the street unless it was a dollar or accustomed to the idea of saving and

as well. Ups and downs are common Chassidus. The RAMBAM Lifestyle in life. What matters is our response By Yaakov Bam, Nutrition and Wellness to it. To be continued. Stress can start the body’s response Consultant to perceived danger, the “Fight-or- Health Tips for Your Good Lifestyle Yaakov Bam, MS, is a member of The Rambam: Flight” response. During this reaction, How to prevent (solve) the distress? American Association of Nutritional hormones like adrenalin are released, Consultants. He focuses on guiding and “I can guarantee speeding the heart rate, slowing diges- One of the important steps to prevent advising institutions, families and private that anyone who tion, pushing blood flow to major (solve) the stress is to mesader (orga- individuals in implementing the RAM- accustoms himself muscles, and changing various other nize) our home and office, and schedule BAM Lifestyle. By improving your lifestyle to these ways which nervous system functions, giving the our time. you Will: have more energy everyday, we have discussed body a burst of energy and strength. get rid of bad cholesterol, constipation, will not become sick Tracht Gut, Zayn Gut. Think positively. normalize blood pressure, boost your throughout his whole life, and will G-d created it to enable us to fight or Don’t do unnecessary thinking. immune system and metabolism, prevent never need to take any medicines. His run away when faced with danger. heart disease, stroke, and diabetes chas Proper habits can prevent distress. body will be perfect and healthy for his vsholom, etc… Yaakov can be reached Never postpone for tomorrow, what you entire life....” Today it’s triggered during a stressful at [email protected] or by phone, can do and complete today/now. workday, traffic jam etc… (347)564-2874. To find out more details We all experience stress. Is all stress Eat nutritious balanced meals. about the RAMBAM Lifestyle, please see bad? What do we have to do to get rid When the perceived danger is gone, Exercise regularly. preceding and upcoming articles of the of (reduce) bad stress? we are intended to get back to normal Health Interest series. To register for a free function via the relaxation reaction. If Get enough rest. “Eustress” (stress that is healthy or gives Health Lifestyle seminar, please contact person is under a chronic stress, this All of the above is part of living a one a feeling of fulfillment) is good for Yaakov Bam. often doesn’t happen enough, bringing fulfilling life based on teachings of us. It keeps us excited about life and harm to the body. brings a feeling of satisfaction. B”H When faced with chronic stress, people Grass is GREEN in Crown Heights. Some of the examples of eustress are: begin to see physical symptoms, chas If YOU WANT TO v’sholom. The first symptoms are • Happiness felt on the birth of a relatively mild. With more exposure child Have more energy everyday! to chronic stress, more serious health • Achieving a goal problems may develop. Get rid of cholesterol, high blood pressure, constipation! • Excitement while preparing for a hasunah These stress-related conditions include: Boost your immune system! • Buying a home depression, heart disease, diabetes, hair Prevent heart disease, stroke, and diabetes! It is known that eustress is very impor- loss, obesity, tooth disease, etc… tant for a person to excel in his/her More then 90% of doctor’s visits are for Discover simple, effective ways to get healthy and stay healthy! life. sicknesses that are stress-related! The opposite of eustress is distress _ Call Yaakov Bam, MS Stress is created by a person him/ which can be very destructive to us. Professional member of American Association herself. When we think that we are the _ of Nutritional Consultants. victim of circumstances and are unable Some of the circumstances that lead to _ @ 347.564.2874. to deal with a particular situation, we distress are: _ Email: [email protected] are under stress. We should look at the • Dissatisfaction in relationships glass half full not half empty. • Financial worry When we know the signs and under- Crown Heights residents have been helped. • Work overload stand the sources of stress, with a firm • Feeling unfulfilled in life resolution, we can find a remedy for it Advice, preventive help or intervention for you & for your family. July 4, 2008 ~ crOWN heights Newspaper 19 Fellow Jew, Its up to you

Spies with Enthusiasm Clearly the group to emulate is the such as the Presidents of the United second group of spies who came back States to proclaim that the Seven Noa- By Moshe Nunez There is a time to stick to the mission, with a good report, but most impor- hide Laws are the bedrock of society not more, not less. However, after fall- tantly actually began to implement the which must be known and followed. Klal Israel has ing short of our shlichut, when we are overall objective which was to conquer spent 40 years given another opportunity, we have to the land. It is no different today. In As the Rebbe’s Chassidim, we in the desert make up for lost time and for the missed the past we have been overwhelmed Lubavitchers must follow the Rebbe’s a fter hav ing opportunities of the past. with the nations around us: they seem example. We must make our peers received the like giants; they appear as such an (whoever is in our sphere of influence) Torah. The con- How does this apply to us today? Are overpowering majority. to acknowledge and practice these gregation is now we conquering Eretz Israel? Our task Seven Universal Precepts. The formula heading towards today is to conquer the whole world This has led us to muffle our role how to do this is clear: Live and teach the Promised because in the days of Moshiach the as the light unto the nations and to at every opportunity these precepts Land, a land flowing with milk and whole world will be like Eretz Israel overanalyze the Rebbe’s directives to with all their ramifications in the “light honey. As they are about to enter, (Midrash: Pesikta Rabati; Yalkut Shi- teach the Sheva Mitzvot Bnei Noach. of chassidut” which reveals the reasons Moshe Rabbeinu sends spies to survey moni). The Rebbe quoted the Tzemach All that needs to be done is to start why it is imperative to live life as the the land to make an action plan of how Tzedek countless times that we should the conquest. We must be a light unto Life Giver commands. to start the conquest. make Eretz Israel right here where we the nations by showing them how a are (Mach do Eretz Israel). believer in G-d is to live. It is time not We live in a time in which the fears, 40 years earlier Moshe Rabbeinu had to think about or analyze the Rebbe’s doubts, and negativity of the past sent another group of spies on a similar So just like the first and second spies directives, but to implement these by must be rectified with confidence, mission. They returned with “good were standing at the threshold of teaching Sheva Mitzvot Bnei Noach perfect emunah, and enthusiasm. We news” and “bad news”. The good news entering Eretz Israel, so too we are with all their ramifications in the light must bring a report back to the Moshe was that the land was extraordinarily standing at the gates of the Geula. It is of chassidut. Rabbeinu of our generation that we not fertile producing unbelievably large human tendency to think we can run only are able to conquer the land (the produce. The bad news was the cities away from our problems and that the While it is each individual’s choice which world), but we actually began capturing were fortified, the inhabitants were grass is greener on the other side of the group of spies he/she will emulate, the its villages, presenting these as the first giants, and in their estimation it was fence. To run from our problems and fact remains that Klal Israel is one, and of many believers in the G-d of Israel. impossible to conquer. avoid dealing with life’s challenges is if we are not united in our purpose and What better time to do this now as we not practical because the issues we are resolutions, we delay the possession of approach Gimmel Tammuz where our Due to their non-positive disposition avoiding do not necessary go away when the land (chas v’shalom). Rebbe’s influence became unbound by and focus on “the problem”, they were we ignore them or turn our backs on time and space. unable to see, accept, and implement them. Actually, they usually come in a For countless decades and even cen- “the solution” which led that whole more magnified form. turies we have been a light unto the May this lead to the day when the generation to die in the desert. In the nations, but in a timid, shy, and even nations of the world recognize that business consulting world there is a We must make the vessel (keili) through covert way. We have hoped that our their destiny is linked with Klal Israel, popular phrase: “Either you are part which H-shem will give us the nations mere presence in this world would be through Moshe Rabbeinu and the of the solution, or guess what? You’re to make them subservient to His Will enough to bring Moshiach and the Torah. At this time all will recognize part of the problem.” There is nothing and His Torah. Will we be like the first Geula Sheleima to all the nations. Then and cry out: “Shema Israel H-shem in between. spies who focused on the seemingly came our Rebbe who broke through all Elokeinu H-shem Echad!” insurmountable obstacles or will we be previous barriers and limitations mak- 40 years later the second group of like the second group of spies? ing his peers (contemporary leaders) spies sent by Moshe Rabbeinu took the opportunity to make a tikun. They saw and acted upon “the solution”, not “the problem”. The result was that they came back with “good news” and even “better news”. The “good news” was that H-shem would give us the victory to take any of these territories. The “better news” was that the “good news” was already proven true in that we actually already captured the villages of Yaazer.

We find that the first group of spies overstepped their mission in a nega- tive way (except Yehoshua and Kalev). They were asked to spy out the land and bring a report of the facts with complete objectivity. They were not asked to give their opinions, nor jump to conclusions regarding the feasibility of entering the land. H-shem had already promised to give Klal Israel the land of Cana’an; they merely needed to provide a human vessel (keili) through which Ha Kadosh Baruch-Hu would bring the solution to the challenges at hand.

The second group of spies in Parshat Chukat rectified the action of the first spies in that they overstepped their mission in a positive way. They believed so much in H-shem’s promise to give the Yidden the land that they actually captured the villages they were sent to spy-out. 20 CROWN HEIGHTS Newspaper ~July 4, 2008

Sunday..... Funday

In July and August, let the CHJCC take you places!

Day Trips For Families

For more information, Please call Mrs P. Mintz:

Handyman Painting - AC Installation - Demolition - All types of construction 718 778-8808 x 28 Zalman Lefkowitz--347-756-1171 Levi Weiss--917-903-7698 DO YOU WANT TO LEARN NEW SKILLS? NIGHTLIFE! ?????????????? Upcoming Events Thursday July 3, 8pm GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO GAIN COMPUTER SKILLS/OF- A Tribute To Nightlife: Nightlife Celebrates Its 1st Year Anniversary!! It's a Party! Karaoke & DJ, Hear From Fellow 'Nightlife'ers, FICE MANAGEMENT SKILLS Ice Cream Sundaes, lots of singing & dancing!!

THIS COURSE IS PERFECT FOR BEGINNERS AND FOR Sunday July 6, 8pm Gimmel Tamuz Event: USERS WHO WANT TO BRUISH UP THEIR COMPUTER "How Do We Stay Warm In a Cold Environment" SKILLS. with Rabbi Benny Zippel, Chabad of Utah Monday July 7, 8pm • MS WORD Why Do We Attract What's In Our Lives And In • EXCEL Our Marriage Relationships In Particular with Mr. Mutty Weinberger, LMSW SEPARATE CLASSES FOR MEN AND WOMEN All programs are held at The NIGHTLIFE Lounge: LIBERAL ELIGIBILITY GUIDELINES Rubashkin Residence - 1349 President Street email: [email protected] PLEASE CONTACT Blog: www.CHnightlife.wordpress.com RIVKA SHUR AT 718-778-8808 EX 24 [email protected] NightLife programs are a joint project of CHJCC and BYIT and sponsored by the CHJCC July 4, 2008 ~ crOWN heights Newspaper 21 The third of Tzmmuz

The Chabad Approach to Life was no one else out on the streets. When you go over. And I say that is it is actually the Chassidim following the Rebbe preferable to go over than to go under!" By Jonathan Sacks Chabad recognized -- under the Rebbe arrived at the park, they found the gates Reprinted from Chabad.org. -- no boundaries. And I often ask myself why? What drove of the gardens closed. What do you do? the Lubavitcher Rebbe? In one lifetime, the Rebbe's influence It was risky, it was almost impossible, The garden is closed, it's locked, the gates was felt throughout the entire Jewish and because it was almost impossible, are barred. Lubavitch recognizes no closed doors, world. Lubavitch did it. no boundaries. Uforatzta – sprout out. Completely undeterred, the Rebbe It used and still uses every modern Wherever Jews are: in Hawaii, in Hong I remember the one occasion that I spent looked at the seven or eight foot metal technology of communication, Cable Kong, in Alaska or Australia, there Rosh Hashanah together with the Rebbe fence and proceeded to climb over it. and satellite, Mivtzah campaigns and you will find a Chabad-Lubavitch in , Lubavitch World And if the Rebbe climbs over a fence Mitzvah mobiles. Lubavitch, before it was Rabbi, a direct personal emissary of Headquarters in Brooklyn, NY. And still and you're a Chassid, what can you do ever heard of in other circles, went to Jews the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Men- then they were talk- that the other Jews forgot, to tiny isolated achem Mendel Schneerson, of righteous ing about an event communities, to university campuses. memory. There you will see him/her that happened some Jews on drugs, to Jews in prison. reaching out to Jews and rekindling the years before, I think flame of Jewish life. 1955. The Torah says, "If you are scattered at the ends of the heaven, from there the Lubavitch went and still goes everywhere. Each year the L-rd your G‑d will gather you and from Above all, Lubavitch went before anyone Lubavitcher Rebbe there will He bring you back." And was else -- and at a time when it was fraught would lead thou- there ever a religious leader in Israel with immense danger -- to the former sands of Chassidim who took that verse so to heart and so . The USSR was surely one along Eastern Park- astonishingly became a partner with the of the greatest systematic attempts in way to do Tashlich Almighty Himself in bringing back from all of human history to extinguish the [the prayer done every corner of the Jewish world. "Ner Tamid" -- the continuous flame of at the side of water our faith. And Lubavitch reached out to to symbolize the And I often ask myself why? What drove the Jews of silence to keep the spirit of throwing of the sins the Lubavitcher Rebbe? but follow? Jewish Judaism alive... and succeeded in to the water] on Rosh Hashanah at the I don't know. And who will know. in doing so! Brooklyn Botanical Gardens. That year in Lubavitch they recited the It was risky, it was almost impossible, famous saying of the Rebbe Maharash, One day we will tell our children's That year there was a tremendous down- and because it was almost impossible, the fourth Chabad Rebbe: "If you meet children that we were privileged to live pour, and so powerful was it, that there Lubavitch did it. an obstacle, and you can't go under then in the same age as him. Directives and customs advised by the Rebbe regarding the Yahrzeit: Adapted from Sefer Haminhagim privilege. saying that a gartl is worn during the of observant youth - and, in a neighborly reading.) Those who had the privilege spirit, should make every endeavor to (published by Sichos In English) A [yahrzeit] candle should be lit that of entering [the saintly Rebbe’s study] also visit centers for the young people will burn throughout the twenty-four By the grace of G-d for yechidus, or at least of seeing his who are not yet observant - in order to hours. If possible, the candle should be face, should - while reading the pidyon explain to them the warm love that the Rosh Chodesh Shvat, 5711 of beeswax.[673] nefesh - picture themselves as standing saintly Rebbe constantly had for them. Brooklyn, N.Y. Five candles[674] should burn during before him. The pidyon nefesh should It should be explained to these people the prayer services. then be placed between the pages of a what he expected of them; they should To Anash, to the students of Tomchei maamar or kuntreis, etc., of his teach- be told of the hope and the trust that Temimim, and to those who have a After each prayer service (and in the ings, and sent, if possible on the same he placed in them - that they would bond or a relationship with my revered morning, [this means] after the reading day, to be read at his graveside. ultimately fulfill their task of strength- father-in-law the saintly Rebbe, of of Tehillim), the sheliach tzibbur should ening the observance of Judaism and blessed memory: study (or at least conclude674 the study In the course of the day one should disseminating the study of Torah with of) ch. 24 of Mishnayos Keilim and ch. 7 study chapters of Mishnayos that begin G-d bless you all. all the energy, warmth and vitality that of Mishnayos Mikvaos. He should then with the letters of his name. characterize youth. Greeting and blessings: recite the mishnah beginning “Rabbi In the course of the day one should Chananyah ben Akashya...,” followed If prevailing conditions allow, all the In reply to the many questions that have participate in a farbrengen. silently by a few lines of Tanya,[675] above should of course be continued been asked about a detailed schedule and Kaddish deRabbanan. In the course of the day one should during the days following the yahrzeit, for the Tenth of Shvat, the yahrzeit of set aside a time during which to tell and particularly on the following my revered father-in-law, the Rebbe, I After Maariv, part of the maamar (Basi one’s family about the saintly Rebbe, Shabbos. would hereby suggest the following: LeGani) that was released for the day and about the spiritual tasks at which of the demise should be recited from May G-d hasten the coming of our On the Shabbos before the yahrzeit he toiled throughout all the days of memory. If there is no one to do this Redeemer, and then “those who repose [each chassid] should attempt to be his life. from memory, it should be studied from in the dust will awaken and sing joyful called for an aliyah to the Torah. the text. This should also be done after In the course of the day, people (to praises.” And our Nasi among them If there are not enough aliyos the Shacharis, and the maamar should be whom this task is appropriate) should will give us wondrous tidings, and lead Torah should be read [a number of concluded after Minchah. visit synagogues and houses of study us along the path that leads up to the times] in different rooms. However, no in their cities and cite a statement or House of G-d. Before Shacharis, a chapter of Tanya additions[672] should be made to the an adage drawn from the teachings of should be studied. This should also be [Signed: Rebbe’s name] number of aliyos [at each reading]. the saintly Rebbe. They should explain done after Minchah. how he loved every Jew. [Furthermore,] (a) Miscellaneous: The congregation should see to it In the morning, before prayer, charity they should make known and explain that the Maftir should be the most “I once heard from my revered father- should be given to those institutions the practice that he instituted of reciting respected congregant, as determined by in-law, the Rebbe, that before visiting a that are related to our Nasi, my revered Tehillim every day, studying the daily the majority; alternatively, the choice resting place or ohel [i.e., the structure father-in-law, of sainted memory. portion of Chumash with the commen- should be determined by lot. built over or around the grave of a tzad- Donations should be made on behalf of tary of Rashi, and, where appropriate, dik] it is customary not to eat, but one The congregation should choose some- oneself and on behalf of each member of studying the Tanya as he divided it into drinks something.” one to lead the prayers on the day of one’s family. The same should be done daily readings throughout the year. If the yahrzeit. It is proper to divide [the before Minchah. possible this should all be done in the It is the custom of the Rebbe Shlita to honor, choosing] one person to lead course of a farbrengen. make an appeal for Keren Torah (“the After Shacharis and the recitation of Maariv, a second to lead Shacharis, Torah Fund”) at the farbrengen of Yud the maamar, each individual should In the course of the day, people (who and a third - Minchah. In this way a Shvat. read a pidyon nefesh. (It goes without are fit for the task) should visit centers greater number of Anash will have the 22 CROWN HEIGHTS Newspaper ~July 4, 2008 Shleimus Haaretz

When Silence is a Sin and Samaria, (or any area within the director may have other considerations. The Obligation “If they choose not to rely upon my boundaries of the Land of Israel) which He may reason that it would pay to let to Protest* information — let them investigate the is given away, places the lives of untold a certain patient die, in order that in • Every Inch They Give Away From issues themselves. Then, in accordance numbers of Jews in immediate danger, two days or a year he can save two or The West Bank Places The Lives Of with the dictates of the existing real- G-d forbid (because one is not allowed three people.... Yet, according to Jewish Hundreds Of Jews In Danger! ity, they should issue a clear, decisive to rely on a miracle).” Law, when the issue concerns saving human life, one is obligated to save Published and copyright © life immediately. The judgment that by by Sichos In English letting one patient die, he will be able The Tumult They Made About This to save two later is in absolute conflict — Helped with the Code of Jewish Law (besides the fact that the judgment could be The Rebbe cried out many times for the wrong or unfounded). Rabbis to publicize a ruling that forbids the ceding of an iota of land, and even “The same applies regarding the subject affirmed that the uproar resulting from at hand: When dealing with potential this ruling has been effective: loss of life, it is imperative to consult the military, because only they know “The tumult they made regarding what is necessary to ensure security; this — helped, and has not only caused not the politicians.” people to refrain from being silent, but to confidently state the ruling, to the The Rebbe then sums things up: extent that it has given many Rabbis the courage to send letters to the Prime “From here it is clear that when a Minister ...” military man expresses a diplomatic statement, we must ascertain if his The Rebbe was not content with this, reasoning addresses the issue of saving but went on to spell out that such a ruling: Does pikuach nefesh require Yet it is not sufficient to consult just human life (which will guarantee that ruling must be based upon Jewish Law. that we cave in under the pressures of any military personality. One must security is his main concern), or is based For example, in his address of [9] Kislev non-Jews living in whatever country, be certain that his opinions are free of only upon political considerations — 5738 (1977), the Rebbe said: and that of the Jews who are “afraid and any biases which are not based purely which contradict the Code of Jewish soft-hearted” (by virtue of their alleged upon security considerations. In the Law!” “In order to issue a ruling concerning diplomatic savvy)? Or, does pikuach Rebbe’s words: these matters, one must be well versed nefesh make it forbidden to surrender The Rebbe concludes with a call to act in the details of the issue. Therefore, even the tiniest bit of land from Judea “According to the ruling in the Code swiftly and issue a verdict concerning to save the Rabbis the “trouble” of and Samaria, as the military authorities of Jewish Law, one must consult this question. researching it for themselves, I shall affirm?” military men and not “statesmen” give them the information based upon (politicians). The Rebbe then summarized what “Since this is a matter in which every my own inquiries. This includes the should be the cardinal element of a day makes a difference, they should opinions of the military experts — “There are those who would assert that Rabbi’s appraisement: make all their inquiries at the earliest namely, that every bit of land from the it is not necessary to consult military possible opportunity and should lose West Bank which is given away would “The main point is that it is forbidden men. This assertion contradicts the no time (since this is a matter of life endanger the lives of hundreds of Jews, to reckon with the opinion of the Code of Jewish Law. According to the and death) ... Without doubt they will G-d forbid. There is also the conspicu- politicians. Before taking a step related Code, when one has a medical question immediately issue a clear and decisive ous outcome of past episodes, when the to national security, one must consult which involves the saving of human life, ruling....” opinions of the military experts were the military authorities. And in fact, one must consult a doctor and not, say, not taken into account. they maintain that any part of Judea the director of the hospital, since the

THE SHLEIMUS HA*ARETZ TALK SHOW UPDATE AND SPECIAL GIMMEL TAMMUZ EVENTS From Tamar Adelstein, coordinator position in the US government during on-line and in booklet form. To volun- If for some reason these numbers the Six-Day War. teer, please call me at 718-774-0914 or don’t work when dialing in, please call Crown Heights. Women for the Safety email me at [email protected]. 718-774-0914 for help. If the website and Integrity of Israel Our next guests included new friends is functioning, you can retrieve this from around Yerushalayim’s neighbor- A series of special events have been 28 Sivan 5768 ~ July 1, 2008 program and all other archived shows hoods. By Hashgocha Pratis the two planned in honor of Gimmel Tammuz at: www.sanesite.org; click classes;click Our last Shleimus HaAretz Talk Show Lubavitchers we had invited on the on Thursday, Rosh Chodesh, July 3. Shleimus Ha*Aretz. was in honor of Yom Yerushalayim and show to tell us about their communi- They include: featured an array of outstanding guests ties couldn’t make it, but what came A Shleimus HaAretz Farbrengen will from Eretz Yisroel. out from the others was a real sense of The Shleimus HaAretz Talk Show be held at 8pm at 1714 President Street appreciation for the Rebbe’s love and from Noon to 1:30pm, NYC time, between Utica and Rochester. Come We began our interviews with Mrs. concern for C’lal Yisroel and Eretz which will feature interviews with and share your learning, thoughts, and Adel Teller who shared her family’s long Yisroel. In planning this segment of Rabbis Yaakov Cohen and Boaz Kali ideas for this inyan that means so much and loving relationship with the Old the show, I was amazed at the extent who are implementing Sheva Mitzvos to the Rebbe. Light refreshments will City and its environs as well as some of development in the City and, G-d with the Arabs—an important aspect be served. Open to the community; of her own meaningful thoughts about Willing, I hope to do another program of Shleimus HaAretz. We will also be separate seating. Want to listen and the kedushah that makes Yerushalayim on Yerushalayim. speaking with D’ror Vanunu who is the join in: Dial 712-451-6000, Access the spiritual center of the world. international coordinator of The Gush Code: 505946#. As mentioned on the show, we are Rabbi Avraham Shmuel Lewin related Katif Committee. D’ror will explain planning a special Kinus Torah for The Shleimus HaAretz CD featuring his experience as a bochur in K’far the latest crisis Gush Katif expellees Shleimus HaAretz that will honor the 4 shiurim from the talk show given by Chabad during the Six-Day War and are facing, and what we can do to help best submissions of Chiddushei Torah Rabbis Shalom Ber Kalmanson and his first visit to the Kosel so vividly them. As always, Mrs. Elly Rodan with a monetary prize: $350 for the top Heshel Greenberg can be found on sale that we all felt as if we were actually will update us on the latest Pidyon entry, $100 and $50 for the 1st and 2nd in Crown Heights. stores. there! His recollection of Yosef ben Sh’vuiim news and currents events runners-up. Volunteer help is needed Eliezer’s encounter with the Rebbe going on in Eretz Yisroel. To join in Finally, our next program will, G-d in the following areas: judges’ panel, prior to and after the War is a must for live dial: 712-451-6000, Access Code: Willing, air in August. Looking forward publicity and outreach. The contest is all to hear. Ben Eliezer was a protégé 505946#. To retrieve via phone, dial to your listening ear! Have a healthy open to Jews from all communities, and of Arthur Golderg who held a senior 641-715-3486, Access Code: 505946#. and happy summer. publication of the submissions will be July 4, 2008 ~ crOWN heights Newspaper 23 Sivan/Tammuz

This week we continue with theY ahrzeiten of people who lived in our shechuna. Russia and settled in . He was as the gabai in the We are also including the Yahrzeiten of Shluchim. In mentioning them we born in 1902 in Druyo and was nifter in 770 shul and was come to “v’Hachai yiten el Libo”. We learn lessons from their lives that we can an accident near in 1975. mekushar to the incorporate into our own. This column includes the Yahrzeiten of the 30th of His resting place is on Har Hazeisim Previous Rebbe Sivan through the 8th of Tamuz. The respective resting places of the individuals in . and the Rebbe. He merited to be Habochur Boruch Nissan Chabad. He sacrificed himself to save appointed by the Men Teldon 30th of Sivan Yidden in communist Russia, and as Previous Rebbe, a a result, “merited” to sit in prison for The son of, may he live and be well member of the fac- Horav Hachossid Hatomim Reb many years. He raised many genera- Horav Hachossid Hatomim Reb Tuvia, ulty of Bais Rivka in Sholom Dov Ber Vishedsky tions of Shluchim and chassidim, who the Rebbe’s shliach in Commack, New Europe. He was on the governing board are mekushar to the Rebbe with heart York; Boruch Nissan was nifter at Bar of , International Agudas The son of Horav Hachossid Hatomim and soul. He was born in 1908 on the Mitzva age in 1991. To eternalize his Chassidei Chabad, Ezras Achim that Reb Moshe, he was a devoted teacher 20th of Tishrei in Pleshzenitz and was memory, a Bar Mitzva fund for the dis- assisted Yidden in Russia, and the in the Yeshiva . He later nifter in 1995 in London. tribution of Tefillin was established in Colel Tiferes Zekainim. He instituted served as a mashpia of Yeshiva Hadar his honor. Our readers are encouraged the reciting of the in 770 Hatorah for many years. In his later Horav Hachossid Hatomim Reb Tzvi to send a contribution to the Boruch after Shacharis. He was born 1912 in years, he served as a Rav in the Rainis Hirsh Chein Nissan Bar-Mitzva Fund, c/0 L.Y.O. Stradov and was nifter in 2001. Shul on Troy Avenue. He was nifter The son of Horav Hachossid Hatomim 305 Kingston Avenue, Brooklyn, NY in 2007. Reb Peretz, he was a descendent of the 11213 Women 2nd of Tamuz distinguished Rabbinic Chein family 4th of Tamuz Horav Hachossid in Russia and was a baal midos tovos. Horav Hachossid Hatomim Reb Mrs. Chava Elka Raskin On his matzeva it is noted that he was Hatom im R eb Avorhom Dovid nifter within twenty-four hours after The daughter of Horav Hachossid Reb Shmuel Hakohen Wilhelm the histalkus of the Rebbe on Gimel Avrohom Feder and the wife of, may Glick Tamuz 1994. The son of Horav he live and be well, Horav Hachossid The son of, may Hachossid Reb Hatomim Reb , she was Horav Hachossid he live and be well Moshe Yehuda a Baalas Midos Tovos. She was nifter Hatom im R eb Horav Reb Yisroel Arye, he was in 1987. Eliezer Elimelech Dovid Hakohen, he among the chas- Mangel 8th of Tamuz was a descendent of sidim who were Eli Hakohen who The son of, may devoted to the fulfillment of the Rebbe’s Mrs. Esther Rochel Paltiel served in the Mishkan Shilo. He was he live and be well directives. He was a G-d fearing person, The daughter of Horav Hachossid Reb mekushar to the Rebbe and was always Horav Hachossid an individual who steadily attended Chaim and the wife of Horav Hachossid very involved in the Chinuch of his Hatomim Reb Nis- shiurim. Born in 1929 on the 4th of Hatomim Reb Dovber, she built her children, attempting to keep to the san, he merited to Shvat in Mihalipolva, Rumania, he was house in a trustworthy manner. During highest standards. He participated in be the shliach of the nifter in 2003. the years of hunger in World War II, she a steady shiur which took place for Rebbe in Mercer County, New Jersey 6th of Tamuz supplied the deprived with a special approximately three decades and was and was committed to his sacred work devotion, consideration and courtesy in sincerely involved in his studies. His with heart and soul. He was born in Horav Hachossid Hatomim Reb a cordial way. She was nifter in 2000. house was always open for the shiurim. 1963 on Hoshano Rabo 1963 and was Dovid Henach Zaklikovsky In his last months, ill and suffering from nifter in a car accident in 1988. Mrs. Raizel Scheinfeld The son of Horav Hachossid Reb great pain, he insisted that the shiur 5th of Tamuz Moshe, he was a student of the Yeshiva The daughter of Horav Hachossid Reb should continue in his home so that he Tomchei Tmimim in Warsaw and later Yaakov Hakohen and the wife of Reb could personally participate. He was a Horav Hachossid Hatomim served as a shochet. He was nifter in Yitzchok Scheinfeld, her treasure was baal midos tovos, a considerate person Reb Kadish Rumanoff 1980. fear of Hashem. She loved everyone and with unique sincerity and a good sense The son of Horav Hacho- was likewise beloved by all and had a of humor with which he entertained 8th of Tamuz ssid Reb Shraga Faivish, he special interest in and concern for every his friends. He was nifter in the was among the students Horav Hachossid individual. When she worked in the midst of his life in 2004. who studied in Yeshiva Hatomim Reb kitchen of the Oholei Torah kindergar- 3rd of Tamuz Tomchei Tmimim in Yitzchok ten, she showed a special consideration Lubavitch. He served as Scheinfeld for every individual child and derived Horav Hachossid Reb a Rav in the Azaritzer pleasure when children were satisfied Eliezer Landsman The son of Horav Shul in Brownsville and happy. She was involved in the Hachossid Reb The son of Horav and all his life devoted activities of Bikur Cholim in Crown Mordechai Tzvi, Hachossid Reb Yaakov, himself to spreading Heights, davened three times every he was an only son he committed himself Torah and being meka- day, and was mekushor to the Rebbe. and an orphan at to strengthening and rev Yidden to Yiddish- She was nifter in an accident in upstate his Bar Mitzva. Despite this, his mother maintaining the Kehal keit. He was among the New York in 2003. sacrificed to send him at age 15, from Chassidim Shul in Crown mekushorim to the Rebbe Brazil to Brooklyn, to study in Yeshiva Mrs. Iran Darwish (Kshani) Heights for more than forty and was nifter in 1972. Tomchei Tmimim. Reb Yitzchok was a years. He was nifter in 1995. The daughter of the Horav Hachossid Horav Hachossid Hatomim Reb hatzne leches, modest and private, and Reb Aziz, she was nifter in 1996. 4th of Tamuz Benzion a Baal Tzedoko. He contributed greatly Shemtov especially to the Mosdos Colel Chabad Mrs. Chana Feigenson Horav Hachossid and Bris Avrohom, which conducts Hatom im R eb The son of Horav The daughter of Horav Hachossid Reb brisim for Yidden. He also influenced Menachem Men- Hachossid Reb Zalman Menachem Mendel, she was others to contribute to these mosdos. del Futerfas Kasriel, he was the wife of Reb Yitzchok Feigenson. He merited that his children and committed to During the years of hunger, her house The son of Horav grandchildren follow in the teachings the Rebbeim’s was open to the needy. She was nifter Hachossid Hato- of Torah and Chassidus. He was nifter directives and in 1984. mim Reb Men- in an accident in upstate New York in was exiled in prison in Russia for his achem Mendel, 2003. (see Mrs. Raizel Scheinfeld). Mrs. Disha Greenberg activities in the Previous Rebbe’s Reb Mendel was army. He was among the ten Tmimim Horav Hachossid Hatomim Reb The daughter of Horav Hachossid Reb known for his with whom the Previous Rebbe made Yehoshua Pinson Arye Leib, she sacrificed herself for ardent hiskashrus a covenant to sacrifice themselves Tzedoko and lots of generosity. She was to the Rebbe and served as a mashpia The son of Horav Hachossid Hatomim in order to strengthen and maintain nifter in 1978. in Yeshiva Tomchei Tmimim in Kfar Reb Nochum Yitzchok, he served Yiddishkeit in Russia. In 1947 he left 24 CROWN HEIGHTS Newspaper ~July 4, 2008

Musings parcel of what civilized society should remembered from an earlier trip. The years later, this small kindness is still THE LAMPLIGHTER expect, it becomes a sort of “Mivtza owner, an American, was making small recalled! Mentshlichkeit,” i.e., “The Jewish lady is talk with Yossie who is English. Even By Penina Metal nice, she actually said hello and smiled so, in the course of the conversation, it Toby decided that in the merit of my at my little one!” came out that his wife’s family is from mother’s loving gesture, she would Hashem is watching you. He knows Bayonne, NJ. The lady wanted to know give a special price to Yossie for the whatever you are doing and whatever Kind of sad, really. if perhaps he knew Mrs. Rose Tunis? lichter. you are thinking. Pretty heavy stuff, He informed her that not only did he but the yesod of the hashgocha upon The Rebbe told us that we have to be know Mrs. Tunis, he is, in fact, married I spent this past Shavuous with Rivkie which I was raised. lamplighters. to her granddaughter! and family and when I arrived at her home, the first thing I wanted to see In addition, Mama’s Fifth Shulchan Not only Hashem, but the eyes of the The shop-keeper, Mrs.Toby Asch, went was the candelabra. Aruch was simple: “There is no excuse world are watching us. on to tell a story about “Aunt Rose,” as for bad manners!” Therefore it was she referred to my mother. It is majestic as it is eidel, a reflection expected that one would automatically The Rebbe has told us that just doing of my mother’s character, when I think hold open the door for a neighbor, or one kindness could tip the scales and When her husband, Dr. Reuven Asch about it. My mother always carried assist them with their packages. The bring the Geula. A single kindness takes (a psychologist well-known for his herself with dignity, yet insisted on recipient of these kind gestures would but a moment, but the effects can ripple pioneering work with Israeli orphans), performing maasim tovim b’seser. naturally respond with: “Thank you.” with surprising results, even many was a young child, his mother passed Right? years, down the road. away, r’l. The second night of Shavuous is my mother’s birthday. As I gazed at Rivkie’s Initially, I cringe when the expected My daughter Rivkie, brought this home His aunts and close neighbors, my lovely candelabra, I was warmed not response is not forthcoming. My dis- to me recently, when she called me to mother among them, took turns watch- only by its shining lights, but also comfiture is followed, however, by relate a wonderful vignette about my ing Bobby (as we called him) after comforted by the knowledge that gratitude for the wonderful chinuch mother, obm. school, until his father picked him up the benefits of Mommie’s good deed that I have been privileged to receive. in the evening upon his return home reverberate, offering comfort to me, My son-in-law Yossie was in Eretz from work. Bobby loved rye bread with and pure joy to her grandchildren and Continuing in this line of thinking, Yisrael recently on a business trip. He schmaltz, so that is what my mother great-grandchildren so many decades greeting a passing neighbor with a decided to buy a new Shabbos Lichter lovingly prepared for him. On the later. cheery “Good morning,” regardless of for my daughter, as a gift. surface, a simple act. his color or creed, is the normal thing Od Imasi Chai! to do. Yet rather than it being part and He returned to a silver shop that he Surprisingly, however, more than 60

Turning Disappointment into Food for the Hungry to approve a two-year pilot project that would be administered by the U.S. By Dovid Zaklikowski a senior advisor to the late U.S. Sen. (R-Kansas) on her first day in Washing- Department of Agriculture. (D-N.Y.) and ton. The farm-state politician – and later When Shirley Chisholm was elected chairs the political science department Senate Majority Leader and presidential The USDA, though, fought the measure. in 1968 to represent New York’s 12th at Touro College. candidate – was looking for help in It finally took a federal lawsuit to get District, which included her own neigh- shoring up the economic plight of the USDA to relent, and today more borhood of Crown Heights, she made According to Luchins, a 20-year veteran Midwestern farmers who were losing than 8 million people receive WIC headlines as the first African-American of Moynihan’s staff who in 1983 heard money on their crops. benefits each month, according to U.S. woman elected to Congress. the story first-hand from Chisholm at a government figures. party celebrating her retirement from “Americans started purchasing [pro- However, she soon found her congres- Congress, the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem duce] from Cuba,” explained Jefferson, Chisholm “was responsible for the sional career stunted at its start by Mendel Schneerson, of righteous who was a close associate of Chisholm’s. food program,” said Vernell Alburary, race-related politics. Bowing to political memory, told the congresswoman, “I “So as a result of the imports, the farm- former president of the Shirley Chish- pressures from southern politicians, the know you’re very upset.” ers were poor.” olm Institute for Children. “She was a House’s leadership assigned Chisholm strong, determined individual.” to the Agriculture Committee, a place Chisholm, who lived a block away from According to Luchins, Dole told Chish- where it was assumed that she could the Rebbe and had met him once before olm: “Our farmers have all this extra But Chisholm herself gave ultimate have little influence. when she was running for Congress food; we don’t know what to do with credit to the Rebbe, said Luchins. and searching for endorsements, told it.” Chisholm thought, “One second. At the time, some in the New York the Rebbe, “I am upset. I’m insulted. The Rabbi!” “She said at her retirement party, ‘I media questioned the appointment and What should I do?” owe this because a Rabbi who is an expressed doubt as to Chisholm’s ability During the next few years, and for optimist taught me that what you may to affect the legislative agenda. The Rebbe, who had declined to endorse the duration of the 1970s, Chisholm think is a challenge is a gift from G-d,’” Chisholm’s candidacy and that of her worked to expand the national Food said Luchins in an interview he gave to The less-than-open-arms welcome predecessors because of his policy of Stamp Program, which allowed poor Jewish Educational Media. caused Chisholm, who died in 2005, non-involvement in political campaigns, Americans to buy subsidized food. an understandable amount of frustra- turned the situation around. Finally, in 1973, the Agriculture and “’And if poor babies,’ I heard her say tion, according to Anna V. Jefferson, a Consumer Protection Act mandated this, ‘If poor babies have milk, and poor former state senator from New York’s “What a blessing G-d has given you!” that Food Stamps be made available children have food, it’s because this 22nd District. the Rebbe told Chisholm, urging in every jurisdiction in the United Rabbi in Crown Heights had vision.’” her to take advantage of the Divine States. “She was trying to help poor people,” Providence that put her in a position Go to http://www.chabad.org/548435) explained Jefferson. “She was interested to do something about food supplies. It was in the creation of the WIC pro- to watch Luchins’ interview with Jewish in taking care of the issues in the inner “This country has so much surplus food, gram, however, that Chisholm really Educational Media (JEM). city. That committee had no power to and there are so many hungry people. made her mark. The 1969 White House - Dovid Zaklikowski is on the editorial do that. “ You can use this gift that G-d gave you Conference on Food Nutrition and staff of Chabad.org and is a member of to feed hungry people. Find a creative Health recommended targeted food the chabad.org Ask the Rabbi team. But a phone call from the Rebbe’s way to do it.” supplements for high-risk pregnant secretariat – a simple “the Lubavitcher women and their infants. Chisholm, Rebbe wants to see you” – changed her Tasked with this charge, Chisholm in the House, and Dole, in the Senate, attitude, says David Luchins, who was happened to meet U.S. Sen. Bob Dole championed the idea and got Congress July 4, 2008 ~ crOWN heights Newspaper 25

ON GIMMEL TAMMUZ, THE REBBE LEFT FOR US A SIGN. By Hirschel Pekkar. That is why, the number three plays such that deals with - “his soul is bound up “aleph”, the “one” spirituality, and “two” a significant part in the Torah, which is with his soul”. But the next sentence, – the physicality, together makes three. Some of us know what happened on our life. The Torah itself has three parts where it says “he will see” with the The wise one will now understand, what “beis”, - the second day of Tammuz, – Torah, neviyim, kesuvim. It was given physical eyes, then it says the word “die”, the hint of the number three that the and the next day on the third day - gim- on the third month, to a people that because it is only the physical aspect Rebbe hinted to for our attention.. mel Tamuz, 1994, at the Beth Israel is made up of three parts, - Kohanim, that you can “see” with the physical Hospital, in Manhattan. Leviyim, Yisraeilim. Etc. There is more eyes, that dies. This number “three” is also an indication added to the blessing after eating bread, of the next month which is the month In attendance at The Rebbe’s bedside, because there were three men eating In short, the aleph – one, represents of “av”, this name has the letters of an was a Jewish Doctor and a Philip- to-gether. The Mishnah Avos, after G-Dliness, the beis – two, represents aleph and a beis, telling us as follows, pine nurse, and they witnessed the telling us, how the Torah was handed physicality, and this is the speciallity the Holy Temple was destroyed due to miraculous progression of the events, down, begins it’s instruction to us by of the number three, as it represents the problem with the “aleph and the the disappearance on the second day saying “they said three things”, and “al both aspects being together, which is “beis” of not being together, like in the of Tammuz, of the monitored vital shlosho devorim ho-olom omeid” - on the purpose of creation, that with the story of Kamtza and Barkamtza, where signs of life, the reappearance that three things the world stands”, also Torah, you make a dwelling for Hashem the “two” – separation was expressed, happened after the philippine nurse something that happens three times, here below. but the “aleph” – unity was missing. The refused to give up to try to revive the becomes an established episode, in month of Tammuz is the time to make body of the Rebbe, and the eventual Hebrew it is called - a chazoko, which When we bless anther with lchaim, an appropriate preparation for the next disappearance of the vital signs of life in Hebrew has the same numerical what is the meaning of “lchaim”, even month of “av”, like the month of Elul is of The Rebbe’s holy body, on the third value as the word “omeid”. As a physical souls in the world above, are also called a preparation to the month of Tishrei, day of Tammuz. example, - a table that has three legs “chaim” so what are we blessing the by applying the hint of the “aleph” and cannot wobble, even if the legs are not other person with? Answer, the Torah the “beis”, that means, those who are in There is no doubt, that the Rebbe had equal in length. This is the significance says, - “ki lo al halechem lvado yichyeh the category of “beis”, and those who control over the situation, like the about the number three in general, and ho-odom, ki al kol motzei pi hashem are in the category of “aleph”, to make story is told about the Alter Rebbe, what can we learn from the number yichyeh ho-odom” – not on bread alone every effort of being together, then it that when The Alter Rebbe told his three, that the Rebbe left for us as a does man live, but on what comes out of will become Menachem AV, that the daughter Rebetzen Devorah Leah, the sign to follow, and of course this sign is Hashem’s mouth, does man live. Some “aleph” and the “beis”, being together, mother of the Tzemach Tzedek, the for the purpose of receiving a blessing people pursue “lechem lvado” –bread as mentioned above, will have true third Lubavitcher Rebbe, that there is from “above?” alone, the physical life, but this is not comfort, and our Father In Heaven, a serious complaint against him from what is called living, the physical has to our “AV”– Hashem, about Whom it heaven, that is endangering his very To shed more light on what we can be together with G-Dliness. In the word says – “Shchinto bgaluso” – that the life, and that he wants to nourish the learn from the number three, first, “lchaim” there are two words, “lechem” Divine Presence is also in exile, will also tree of chassidus that he has planted, another aspect has to be explained. In and two letters “yud”, which spell out be comforted, and that will bring us to although, he said, he could direct parsha “vayigash, Torah relates, how The name of Hashem. Moshiach, and the Beis Hamikdosh, things to happen in this world from the Judah approached Joseph, who was the that the “aleph” the G-Dliness will world above, but this is not the way he viceroy of Egypt, and who wanted to The purpose of it all is, that the G-Dli- return to The “Beis” – The physical wants it to be. From this story we see keep Juda’s brother Benjamin as a slave, ness – “one”, and the “two” physicality, home, the Beis Hamikdosh, which clearly that a Nossi Hador, - the Prince to intercede that Joseph should let Ben- should be together. Like we find in The will be number THREE, very soon, of the generation, A Rebbe, has the jamin return to his Father (Jacob), by Torah, the initial letters of “breishis omein. power to control what happens here saying “his soul (of the father) is bound boro elokim” that it is “beis”, “b” – with below, from heaven, like Rashi says “ki up with his soul”(that of Benjamin). In hanossi hu hakol” He is everything and the next sentence it says, “and it will בס”ד everywhere. The fact that the vital signs be, that when he ( Jacob) sees, that he stopped on the second day of Tamuz, (Benjamin) is not present, he (Jacob) “yom bais” in Hebrew, but returned, will die”. Here one can ask, why were shows, that the Rebbe did not want two sentences needed for Judah to make Great news!!! ChabadWeekly.com Great news!!! that “yom bais” - the numerical value seemingly the same point? of “bais” is two, should be the one to ‘Chabad Weekly’ is an online listing of - Full page ads, Events, be specially remembered, because the Answer. There are generaly two types Advertisements, Jobs, Sales, Housing and much more. letter “bais” indicates a physical plural- of characters, some are attuned to be ity, two separate beings, it indicates involved with the physical aspects of something having a division between this world, that is what they “see” with The concept of ‘Chabad Weekly’ was taken from Craigslist, where this one and this one, that is why the physical eyes,, which they call, “the real you post your information free, and re-enter your information Rebbe did not want that something that world”, and some have a every seven days. indicates “division” should be specially remembered. About the physical world desire to slate towards the spirituality Advantages: being created, the Torah, begins with a of the world, which they call “the real 1) Text and images are free. letter “bais” – two, because the physical world”, the aspect of -“and his soul world is made up of separate things, 2) Your information will stay on site for seven days. indicated by the number “two”. is bound up with his soul”. To be effec- 3) Post it yourself – with no middleman. tive with another, one has to approach 4) Your information is neatly posted (header in center, and The fact that it happened in this unusual that person by his particular outlook, details/images to the right). way, and not on the third day only, is like by the Alter Rebbe who influ- 5) Site could be sorted in many ways, to make your search for us to take note of. it’s significance, enced others to become Chassidim, easier and faster. of not being two, but specifically being specifically by approaching them with 6) ‘Full page’ section, where you can upload your image or three. the revealed part of Torah, which was document to be displayed on a full page (useful for posting their specialty. Since Judah did not The answer why the number three is so know who Joseph was, and what gave yers, brochures etc). Full page section is not free. special is, because the number three, him inspiration, he tried the spiritual is the only number that is the sum approach first, because it seemed to Sponsored by: UnionApartment.com. total of it’s previous two numbers. It Judah, that Joseph was some kind of Where you will nd our accommodations encompasses the “one” that represents clairvoyant, spiritually orientated, and comfortable and pleasant. G-Dliness, and the “two”, that repre- since the spiritual, the neshomoh – the sents plurality, - the physical world, soul, does not die, therefore the word being together. “die” is not mentioned in the sentence, 26 CROWN HEIGHTS Newspaper ~July 4, 2008 Personal Recollections

The Longest Yom Kippur: advice, were sadly ‘taken for question- down. Traditional rites and rituals were ing’, yet never returned. banned. It became illegal to practice Along with her husband, our grand- Reflections on my any public form of religion. Bubby’s Yahrzeit father R’ Avrohom Kievman, -whose Concerning our Matriarch Sarah, the -27th of Sivan yahrtzeit was on 20 Sivan- she sacrificed Torah says “And the life of Sarah was Jewish girls were forbidden to attend her life to rescue Chassidim and other one hundred years and twenty years and Hebrew schools.. Though her father By Ari Kievman Jews in Russia, right under the noses seven years, the years of the life Sarah” illegally hired a melamed, a private In honor of the Yahrtzeit of my dear of the notorious K.G.B. Together, they (Gen. 23:1). Rashi, the foremost Bible instructor, to teach his children Torah, beloved grandmother, Mrs. Sarah exemplified true chesed and mesiras commentator explains the redundancy as did many other devout Chasidim, Kievman, an avid reader and subscriber nefesh in this perilous task. Her care of “the years of Sara’s life” is because they still had to attend the communal to the , I present and concern to rescue and assist as “all of them were equal in goodness”. public school as was required by Com- the following essay, written last week many people as possible in their escape Though Bubby’s life was inundated with munist law. on Chof Zayin Sivan, one year after from behind the Iron Curtain was harsh tribulations, they were certainly During her teens, it was compulsory for her passing. legendary. Many a time I would meet complete and wholesome in her selfless the young girls at the time to work for elder Chasidim and upon hearing my benevolent act of courage to help Jews Outside, the sun was shining ever the labor union. Bubby was assigned name, they’d immediately shower wherever she was, in whatever way brightly as on any South African morn- to work in a glass factory. There, they praises upon my grandmother. Though possible. At times, Bubby was sent on ing. The day progressed as usual. But used the young teens to manufacture she behaved unassumingly, I heard clandestine missions by the Rebbe, something inside felt inexplicably and produce glass. from many people about her laudable Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, uncanny. It was just after davening acts of courage back in those days; for the purpose of rescuing Jews in I clearly remember sitting on the couch, Shacharis (praying the morning ser- how she saved many individuals from distant remote places. The Rebbe once as Bubby described to me in vivid detail vice), when all of a sudden, my cell immediate danger. instructed Bubby that her missions the techniques of how they made the phone rang. The caller ID identified were to be executed in like manner as glass. She explained how they would it as an overseas international call. I In the middle of one night, in the early the giving of the second Luchos (Tab- combine sand with soda ash, adding answered with my regular jubilant 1940’s, she ran door to door, advising lets of the covenant) -- without much in several other essential components. ‘hello’. But the jubilation was soon over certain Chassidim, inhabitants of fanfare, which she faithfully complied The ingredients were then mixed and with the information transmitted from Moscow, where she then resided, to flee with. Other than a select privileged few melted in special large pots heated by the other end of the line. The usual day for their lives. Through her surreptitious who were very close with her, no one a furnace at very high temperatures. was no longer so usual, and the brilliant information seeking, she had discovered was aware of her furtive clandestine Several other techniques were used for sun somehow became obscured with that a local Jewish informer, who was missions. more sophisticated or other variants dark clouds. The unthinkable had known as Dovid Itche der musser, had of glass. occurred. My dear Bubby, whom I loved maligned about their stealthy activities In my childhood I experienced very so much, who cared for me immensely, in preserving the underground Yeshiva affectionate moments with Bubby. It was required that the young lass be who shared with me the most amazing network that had been established by Many a time she would share with me present at work in the factory on a daily relationship, had passed away. Bubby’s the previous Lubavither Rebbe, Rabbi tales of her younger years, events and basis without exception. A strict atten- pure neshama was returned to her cre- Yosef Yitzchok Schneerson, of sainted occurrences that she had endured. One dance record was registered daily, and ator. This fine day, became the saddest memory. Spreading religion, according particularly cold winter evening, I recall those who were not present, without a day of my life. I dashed to my room in to Soviet law, was considered counter- distinctly. It was nine years ago. I was convincingly valid excuse that would the Yeshiva dormitory and stayed there revolutionary activity. thirteen years old, and for whatever be acceptable by the authorities, were for several hours trying to chew over reason my mood that night was a tad harshly penalized. Especially during the Bubby was at the area’s train station this shocking, devastating news while glum. I sat down on the sofa in my Jewish festival seasons, the authorities about to embark on a journey. Just struggling to recite words of Tehillim family’s living room all alone forlorn in were particularly ruthless at enforcing before departing, Bubby noticed the and Mishnayos. I cried uncontrollably thought. But not for long. Bubby traced their attendance policy. appearance of what she thought was like never before in my life. my steps and joined me in my distress. maybe Dovid Itche. She stepped off Yom Kippur was approaching, and She sat down next to me very smoothly, Those phone calls when I was able to the train to capture a better glimpse Bubby would in no way permit herself to and gently she spoke with me. In short talk with Bubby and discuss issues that of his face. Indeed, the inane rash be forced to violate this most sacred day. time, I was comforted as Bubby told me only Bubby appreciated are now over. informer, who actually used to come She had to conceive a plan to avoid the how she also endured dim moments We used to discuss the contrast of life to her parents’ home in her youth to desecration of this holiest day; a plan when she was young. from her “good old days” to the new benefit from their kind hospitality. that would work. Regardless of what she contemporary fads. Bubby’s erev Shab- Now, he had become a secret member Bubby was born to a Chassidic family could conjure up, chances were, being bos Kugels and the delectable goodies of the Yivesektzia (Jewish Communist in White Russia , where her father, caught wouldn’t be too funny. Many she used to send us, the frequent gifts Authorities). Everyone knew that when the renowned and celebrated Chabad others who had attempted to dodge she would bring to her grandkids, her Dovid Itche was around it could spell Chosid, Reb Shmuel Yitzchok Raices work had been severely punished, some daily visits and charming compliments, trouble. So Bubby made an instant (“Rashi”, as he was affectionately called in very cruel ways. She knew that this are all no more. No longer will we be decision to diverge from her schedule. by the Lubavitcher Rebbe) served wasn’t going to be easy. But that was able to spend special moments together. She canceled her originally planned as a Shochet (ritual slaughterer of the call of the hour. Our pleasant Shabbos afternoon walks trip and instead followed Dovid Itche’s kosher meat). From early childhood The hours were ticking by. Time was and talks will only be etched in the footsteps. Indeed he was up to no-good. she displayed an exceptional love and flying, and before long it would be annals of my bygone sweet memories. Walking swiftly, he stealthily made his dedication to Torah, Yiddishkeit and Yom Kippur. “What am I to do?” she way to the NKVD registrar offices. Chassidic values. Growing up in very Now a year has passed, and life has wondered. Running out of options, she There, Bubby noticed the way he placed trying and turbulent times in Russia , it moved on, albeit not the same without grabbed hold of the first piece of glass in a document on the official’s desk. With would’ve definitely been easier to do as Bubby. To commemorate this very sight, and, without hesitation, scraped bold chutzpah she furtively glanced at many others had. Abandoning her rich painful day of reflection, our family it along her forearm. Gruesome blood the list of names. Committing their and beautiful heritage, however, was made a trip to visit the sacred resting began to pour from Bubby’s arm all over names to memory, Bubby went knock- not even a thinkable notion for her, as place of our revered grandmother. the place. In seconds, her sleeve was ing on the doors of these individuals, dangerous as that may have been. There, we all recited Tehillim and select drenched in blood. This was a serious regardless of the time at night and the prayers. We also lit a yahrtziet candle After the Bolshevik revolution of 1917, emergency. Luckily, no one saw what danger it entailed, advising them to and reminisced stories of our illustrious the Communist party became the really had pick and run for their lives. Sure enough heroine, Bubby. A special treat it was to leading government body of Russia . that very same night, those individuals’ Transpired; they just though that it was hear from our father memories from Under the Communist regime, religion homes were maliciously, thoroughly an arbitrary freak accident. To Bubby the old days, the early years growing was strictly prohibited. The country inspected and searched. Luckily, due though, this was a moment of immense up under the tutelage of his mother’s was pervaded with Joseph Stalin’s to Bubby’s brave fortitude, they weren’t joy, part of a plan to sanctify the name tender loving care. murderous police attempting to blot home, and thus their lives were saved. of G-d. out any remnant of Judaism they could Like her namesake and ancestor Sarah Amongst those Chassidim whose lives take hold of. Life, especially for Jews, In moments, she was transported to Immenu, she was the proud matriarch of were saved that night was the prominent became exceptionally precarious at the local infirmary. There, a very kind the Kievman family. She molded her chil- Rabbi Nissen Nemenov. Others, who that time. Jewish institutions were shut dren with a unique love and courage. unfortunately did not heed Bubby’s Continued on Page 27 July 4, 2008 ~ crOWN heights Newspaper 27

A Regal Legacy guarantees all who adhere to the mitvah generation, the detrimental fallout understand and are guarded in “tznius,” of tznius a blissful life since this is one that results from a breakdown in the that they share a responsibility for their Gimmel Tamuz. of the most essential foundations of standards of tznius. The proliferation sisters (and aquaintances) - and must of shameless women’s clothing today, make them aware, both by speaking to ’ ’והצנע לכת עם אלוקיך’‘ To many it is a time of reflection and to yiddishkeit as it says others a time of perfection (walk modestly with your G-d). which are intended to arouse man’s them persuasively, and particularly by To many it is an everlasting hoirooh and most base animalistic instincts, have setting an example, that they should The significance and importance of to others a story of a bygone era. succeeded in disassociating modern reinforce the concept of “tznius” in their modest conduct is evident from the To many it is here and now and to others man from the most basic ethics and homes and communities. great reward promised by the Torah, the a distant memory. Yet, the Rebbe's word values. The unrestrained behavior Gemara and the Zohar for being vigi- It is already high time that Jewish moth- lives on… It's the nitzchiyus of Torah; and immodest dress of much of today’s lant in tznius. Also, our sages recount ers and daughters realize their strength the demeanor of royalty. youth, Hashem yerachem (Heaven help stories of Jewish women throughout and their independence of the false, This reprinted letter is as pertinent us) has brought terrible tragedies to the generations who merited wondrous luring and outright empty “fashions” of today as it was the day the Rebbe wrote many homes. It is certain that had these Divine blessings in the merit of their the surrounding environment, fashions this to N’Shei Chabad 38 years ago. youths been educated in the basic laws observance of tznius; not just bless- that have no meaning other than the of tznius, according to the teachings of In honor of Gimmel Tammuz, we ings for themselves but on behalf of greed of those who have a financial our holy Torah, many of these tragedies present the following letter, a free their families and descendants as well. interest. would have been averted and many of translation of Igros Kodesh V. 26 p. 324 Furthermore, the gravity of tznius is these youngsters would not have ruined In the merit of strengthening and reprinted from "Tznius; The Jewel in evident from the terrible consequences, their lives. publicizing the concept of tznius in all our Crown", a book compiled by Mrs. S. G-d forbid, that are apt to result from a aspects of daily living, Hashem should L. Oberlander, one of the founders and lack of adherence to tznius - as detailed In light of the above, I am of the opinion bestow upon us the blessings, which the directors of Bnos Melech B'Yachad. in Yeshaya ch. 3. that the subject of “Tznius” must be Torah promises to those who adhere to set as one of the top priorities of the 7 Adar I, 5730 There are some who erroneously believe, the laws of tznius. Specifically, these daily schedule in responsible Jewish Brooklyn, NY due to their ignorance, that the laws of modest women, together with their circles. tznius “restrict” and rob a woman of husbands, should merit living joyous To the Worldwide Central Organiza- her personal right and are insulting to Especially as the central association of long lives and seeing true Yiddish tion of “N’shei Uvnos Chabad”, G-d her honor. This is clearly a false claim. all international branches of the “N’shei nachas from their children and grand- Bless Them: The truth, however, is precisely to the Uvnos Chabad,” your expected task at children while enjoying good health Greeting and Blessing! contrary. The holy Torah and our sages the moment would be, to undertake and abundant wealth. of blessed memory stress countless an intensive campaign to call on the On several occasions I have already With blessings for great success and times the respect and esteem of a Jew- Jewish community, in particular Jewish made note of the importance of good news in all of the above. ish woman. In fact, there were many women’s organizations – regardless of strengthening the issue of “tznius.” enactments established specifically for their specific responsibility – to address ( V. 26 p. 324) free transla- However, taking into account the the sake of protecting a woman’s honor the question of “tznius” as part of their tion Tznius; The Jewel in our Crown) general situation in this area, I find and stature. With regard to this, the activities. it important to issue a strong appeal, To the Rebbe action is always the main well-known verse in Psalms (45:14), today, regarding this matter. We have to awaken Jewish mothers to the objective -Hamaaseh Hu Haikar - we “ ” is often applied, reality of the deprivation of “tznius”in would like to recommend that you כל כבודה בת מלך פנימה From a Torah perspective it is superflu- meaning the true honor of a Jewish their daughter’s upbringing. listen to the following lectures that are ous to expand on the importance on daughter, the princess, is from within. being made available by Bnos Melech the topic of tznius. Suffice it to say that The Torah refers to a Jewish daughter We need to bring to the attention of the B'Yachad via telephone. the Torah is called (a living as honorable, as a person of stature, administrations of girls’ educational Recorded Dial-in: 1.605.475.6297 תורת חיים Torah) since it is our guide to our daily and as a princess. The Torah, however, institutions, of all ages, to be stricter Rabbi A. D. Gancz: access code life. The Torah guides our day-to-day requires that these virtues express in the matter of “tznius,” and explain to 572796 behavior from the moment we open themselves in a concealed manner, in the students, that “tznius” is the finest Mrs. Esther Piekarski: access our eyes until we go to sleep. And, it a manner of - tznius. characteristic, the crown of the Jewish code- 762717 פנימה is our Torah that strongly emphasizes mother and daughter. Moreover, it is evident from a purely Mrs. Esther Twersky: access code on all and especially on the humanistic view, particularly in our We must toil to persuade all those who 759359 vital importance of tznius. The Torah

The Longest Yom Kippur: While telling me this amazing story in were deprived of it otherwise. All are May these words inspire us to walk Continued From Page 26 full intricate detail, tears rolled down dedicated to emulate the life of the in her path and learn from her deeds. Russian doctor began to stitch up the from Bubby’s cheeks. She continued matriarch of our family. By emulating She should be a melitzas yosher to all serious wound. After nightfall, finally, while choking with intense emotion. her kindness, courage and strength of her descendants and family and to all the hemorrhage was controlled and Then, suddenly, Bubby lifted her sleeve. conviction we keep her spirit alive. of Klal Yisroel. May we live to see her bandaged up. She said, “Look, mine tayer kind”. again with the imminent coming of They say that when one door closes What I saw was a deep scar. That was Moshiach and techiyas hameisim. T. The caring physician tried to relax another is opened. Soon after her pass- Bubby’s eternal reminder from observ- N. Tz. B. H. (May her memory protect Bubby of the pain. She was extraordi- ing, Bubby merited the birth of new ing one Yom Kippur in Soviet Russia. us forever, and may her soul be bound narily benign and cheering to her young great granddaughters who were named It was the longest Yom Kippur she had up in everlasting life.) patient. The doctor then offered Bubby Sarah after their late dear matriarch. experienced, as it had kept her company a glass of hot milk. “Drink this…. It will ‘til this very day. To get a glimpse of you help to cure you….” However, Bubby Gimmel Tammuz would not drink. She attempted to It was only after reflecting upon this It's been too many years Inspired by one vivid memory: I saw the 13 (14) 16 18 persuade the young girl convincing her story recently and contemplating it that Rebbe, I was on my father's shoulders, I to drink for the wellbeing of her health. I realized how my father is who he is. It saw the Rebbe and his eyes went right One memory But to no avail. was this strength in her convictions that into mine. Eye to eye Bubby planted in her children. Forever engraved Noticing that my grandmother was Leaving me alone I have indescribable pride being unwaveringly refusing every offer, she Though her body has now physically Staring at an empty chair handpicked by you took Bubby to another room, making departed, Bubby’s legacy will forever Where has it all gone? I'll do whatever it takes; this bond sure that no one else would notice. In live on. Her children and grandchildren Turning away will never break the dark room was a candle, flickering perpetuate the selflessness that she has Looking down from above Nothing will stop me from doing away, dispelling the darkness. The instilled in them. Her mseiras nefesh You're always on my mind that which you have told caring woman confided in Bubby that to save Jews in the Soviet Union and You occupy the most sacred place in I'm your child, admirer, servant, she too was Jewish. Together, they cel- beyond is continued today by her many foot soldier My heart ebrated Yom Kippur in secrecy, sharing grandchildren and great grandchildren Why G-d Why? When will I see you? inspiring stories and reciting prayers, who are active Chabad Shluchim the When will this excruciating pain until Bubby was officially dismissed to world over, bringing the light and Come in my dreams end? recuperate from the injury. warmth of Yiddishkeit to Jews who I'll die tonight 28 CROWN HEIGHTS Newspaper ~July 4, 2008 Our Mosdos COMMUNITY REC CENTER OPEN Monday July 7 July 2008-

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The YAM Summer Program got off to a great start this past Sunday with a trip to Rings Homestead Outdoor Adventures. Guys did team building, outdoor adventures, and paintball shooting. Everyday teens have a morning seder, afternoon work placements, and evening ac- YAM tivities. Stay tuned for more updates and pictures.