1 CROWN HEIGHTS Newspaper ~August 8, 2008 כאן צוה ה’ את הברכה CommunityNewspaper

פרשת דברים~ שבת חזון | ז' מנחם אב , תשס”ח | בס”ד August 8, 2008 | Menachem Av 7, 5768 weekly vOL. i | NO 38 Tisha B'Av A plethora of articles: Sicha of the 15 of Shvat ~ an exceptional sicha about the Golus. Page 5 The Fast of Tisha B'Av ~ The first five tragedies of our history Page 9 Tisha B'Av Laws ~ What to do and not to do Page 9 The Spanish Expulsion 1492 ~ Page 13

Bring yidden closer while driving a tractor Find out how in the Rebbe's story Page 15

CAN ANYONE BE A MASHPIA? This Week's Hero R eb Yosef Yitzchok Page 14 Deitsch Beis Din of Crown Heights 390A Kingston Avenue, Brooklyn, NY Tel- 718~604~8000 Fax: 718~771~6000 Rabbi A. Osdoba: ❖ Monday to Thursday 10:30AM - 11:30AM at 390A Kingston Ave. ☎Tel. 718-604-8000 ext.37 or 718-604-0770 Sunday-Thursday 9:30 PM-11:00PM ~Friday 2:30PM-4:30 PM ☎Tel. (718) - 771-8737 Rabbi Y. Heller is available daily 10:30 to 11:30am ~ 2:00pm to 3:00pm at 788 Eastern Parkway # 210 718~604~8827 ❖ & after 8:00pm 718~756~4632 Rabbi Y. Schwei, 4:00pm to 9:00pm ❖ 718~604~8000 ext 36 Erev Shabbos Motzei Shabbos Rabbi Y. Raitport is available by appointment. ☎ 718~604~8000 ext 39 Rabbi Y. Zirkind: ☎ 718~604~8000 ext 39 7:44 8:46 Rabbi S. Segal: ☎ 718~604~8000 ext 39 ❖ Sun ~Thu 5:30pm -9:00pm or ☎718 -360-7110 Rabbi Bluming is available Sunday - Thursday, 3 -4:00pm at 472 Malebone St. ☎ 718 - 778-1679 Fast Begins Fast Ends Rabbi Y. Osdoba ☎718~604~8000 ext 38 ❖ Sun~Thu: 10:0am -11:30am ~ Fri 10:am - 1:00 pm or 7:57 8:49 ☎ 718 -604-0770 Rabbi S. Chirik: ☎ 718~604~8000 ext 38 ❖ Sun~Thu: 5:00pm to 9:00pm Gut Shabbos 2 CROWN HEIGHTS Newspaper ~August 8, 2008 The Vaad Hakohol

Letters to the Editor Tosefta it is an obligations a father has The Pool towards his son. Aqua Aerobics is very popular with the B y M o s h e ladies. We have an instructor that has Rabbi Noson Gurary Rubashkin been teaching this a number of years and her classes are well attended and I read your article about Rabbi Noson Gurary and I am very encour- appreciated. Do not forget to reserve for his life experiences and it made a positive impres- aged by what we these classes; due to the great demand sion. I wanted to make a slight correction, if I may, have accomplished we can only accommodate you if you regarding the Chassidus shiur which Reb Noson so far with the Pool, have reserved a place. had with Reb Michoel Teitelbaum. in Crown Heights. Every day young and old come for I wish to take this opportunity to The shiur took place twice a week (and not on a refreshing swim or for healthful thank all those people that are working Shabbos) for over twenty years, and although in exercise. together to make the pool run. Our Life his last years, Reb Michoel was ill in a wheelchair, Guards who conscientiously come and he still participated in the shiur in Crown Heights Young and old men and women, anyone make sure everyone feels safe whiles until close to his ptira. from 2 year olds to 70 are enjoying our enjoying the pool, the people who col- beautiful renovated pool. lect the money for admission and for the Thank you aerobics class and everyone who puts We are working as hard as we can to their time to make your experience a With best wishes for much hatzlacha bring you state of the art locker rooms better one. and showers. It is a big job and we know TYY that it is not as comfortable as it could We are hoping soon to have a family Crown Heights be right now because construction is membership rate for all of you who have not finished but we opened the pool asked for one. We are trying to keep without waiting for completion because the cost as low as possible to enable we thought of all of you in town this everyone to benefit from the pool. summer who would like a place to go to refresh and exercise. We are publishing here the new Dear Editor expanded schedule for the pool which There has been such a great attendance will go into effect after Tisha B'Av. I appreciate your weekly column on halacha in our of ladies and girls that we have extended community newspaper. It clarifies many pertinent the pool hours to 11:00pm for Adults/ I am greatly encouraged by the atten- issues. Laps swim. We are encouraged by your dance at the Ohr Chaya Mushka enthusiasm to do more and accomplish There was one point in particular I( ssue 32 on the program for our high school girls that faster. 24th of Sivan,) in Rabbi Segal's article on Tznius, are in Crown Heights for the summer. which I felt was not proper to print at this time, High School age is a time of growth and Not only are we benefitting our own considering that our community is now in a Tznius discovery and I am pleased that through Anash but B"H people from Williams crisis. this program the girls have a chance burg both men and women make the to renew old friendships, make new What you wrote for women, concerning covering trip to Crown Heights to use our pool. ones and be involved in entertaining their legs, looks like a bidieved. Perhaps to me, They tell us they have been waiting a activities twice a week. this is not appropriate to be announced, unless I year and a half for our pool to open. misunderstood the article (perhaps others did as We are always pleased to receive your well). Mothers and Daughters and Fathers and letters with suggestions. People stop Sons, have the opportunity to spend Kol Hakavod to you for keeping us on our toes! me on the street constantly to tell me quality time together in a healthful how they enjoy the paper or the pool or Looking forward to more of your insights, and enjoyable way. Not to mention that any of the other programs we are able fathers get the opportunity of teaching Sincerely to provide. their sons to swim which according to a OC Crown Heights

Dear Editor I am not sure if this is the place to direct my plea, but I hope the right person sees it. Newspaper Dear Editor Community I often use the newly opened pool, andI enjoy this very much. It makes I wish to thank the organiz- a difference to me thatI can go swimming in my neighborhood, and 392 Kingston Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11225 ers of Ohr Chaya Mushka I can walk there with my friends. for giving my daughter a Published & edited weekly by the Vaad Hakohol One thing disturbed me and it is the reason I am writing this letter: of Crown Heights. place she enjoys going to and where she gets to relax When it is time to leave the pool because of Aerobic or lap time, some Moshe Rubashkin, Rosh Hakohol Dr. Tzvi (Harvey) Lang, Chairman with her friends in the proper ladies and girls ignore the request as if it did not apply to them. Rabbi Plotkin, Secretary atmosphere. Even though we all wish sometimes that we had more time, if we do Layout: SimplyUnique ([email protected]) It is wonderful that two nights not pay attention to the needs of others we are not showing the best All material in this paper has been copyrighted. It is the exclusive property of this newspaper, unless a week she has somewhere to of our middos. otherwise attributed., and cannot be reproduced go that both of us approve without the consent of the publisher. When it is your turn to leave the pool please be considerate and do unreservedly. Composition responsibility: This newspaper will not so. be liable for errors appearing in advertising, beyond Thank you again, keep up the the cost of the space occupied by the error. Advertiser Thank you. assumes responsibility for errors in telephone orders. good work! All advertisement designed and prepared by the Name with held upon request. CHCommunity Newspaper are the property of the BND - Crown Heights newspaper and cannot be reproduced without the consent of the publisher August 8, 2008 ~ crOWN heights Newspaper 3

The Rebbe's Sicha Parshas Devorim 5739

Shabbos Chazon 5739 (1979) (the fact that it took up no space). “the vision.” Torah which the sages are discussing? The lack of perception does not detract Published and copyright © by Sichos In The Maggid of Mezritch explained that This Shabbos is called Shabbos from their discussion. The same concept English everything in the spiritual spheres is Chazon, meaning the Shabbos of applies in respect to the vision of the dependent on our service. He taught “the vision.” The Berditchiver Rebbe Zion will be redeemed with judgment Bais Hamikdosh. Though we do not that the statement of the Mishna “Know explained this with a parable. “A father and its captives with Tzedoko” actually see it with our eyes, it does what is above you,” can be interpreted made a beautiful garment for his son. exist and it has a strong effect on our This week’s Haftorah concludes with to mean “Know that what is above However, the son ruined it. The father behavior. the verse “Zion will be redeemed with — i.e. in the spiritual realms “is from had a duplicate of the original made. judgment and its captives with Tzedoko you” — dependent on your actions. But the son ruined it again. The third What is the rationale behind this (charity).” In Likutei Torah, the Alter Based on that concept it follows that the time, instead of giving the garment to concept? The Jews are believers, the Rebbe interprets the word judgment revelation of G-d’s infinity is dependent the son, the father held it and showed sons of believers. They believe that their as a reference to the study of Torah. on a parallel service by the Jewish it to the son from time to time. The souls see the vision of the Third Bais Our study of Torah and gifts to charity people. By serving G-d without any garment refers to the Bais Hamikdosh. Hamikdosh. The Jews consider their have the power to redeem Zion and its boundaries and limitations, we bring Each year on Shabbos Chazon, G-d souls to be primary importance and captives from Exile. about a revelation of G-dliness that is gives each Jew a vision of the Third their bodies secondary. Hence, the body likewise unbounded. Such service is Bais Hamikdosh.” “follows” the soul and is affected by its The obligation to study Torah and beyond the nature of a human being, vision of the Third Bais Hamikdosh. give Tzedoko is not limited only to the The parable brings out two seemingly the basic quality of a human being is Although the soul’s vision may vary, present times, but applies throughout contrasting points. On one hand, the intelligence. Intelligence is naturally the resulting practical behavior should the year. However, during these days, vision] is shown to the entire Jewish limited. To serve G-d without any always be the same. this service receives greater emphasis people. On the other hand, we have limitations, we must rise above our and stress. to search far to find anyone who has The same concept applies to all aspects basic character. actually seen the vision. of Torah and Mitzvos. Each Jew puts on Why are Torah and Tzedoko so impor- Likewise, the particular nature of the the same Tefillin as Moshe Rabbeinu tant now? Since this period emphasizes However, the fact that we do not see revelation in the Bais Hamikdosh, the did. The same transcendent bond with exile and captivity, it is necessary to the vision does not diminish the effect fusion of the finite and the infinite, must G-d is established. Although there carry out services that directly lead to it must have on our behavior. The be reflected in our service of Torah may be a difference in the feelings and redemption. Rebbe Rashab explained this concept and Mitzvos. Torah study is infinite, thoughts we have while performing the with a parable about a wagoner who is The call for an increase in these services unbounded in scope, yet its object mitzvah, the actions are all the same. driving two Torah sages in his wagon. is being made on Shabbos, for this is must be the derivation of a definite and The wagoner is thinking of making a The fact that the body does not see the the Shabbos preceding Tisha B’Av and, specificH alachic judgment. Similarly, living and supporting his family. The vision of the Third Bais Hamikdosh, in the Zohar’s words, “all the days of in the realm of Tzedoko. The Mitzvah horses which are pulling the wagon are signifies a descent in the level of the the coming week are blessed from the is unlimited in nature, therefore, the “thinking” of their fodder. The sages Jews. However, the purpose of this Shabbos.11 It follows that the nature Book of Psalms describes its reward are discussing Torah. Does the fact descent is ascent. Through Teshuvah of the Shabbos, a day when “all work as “standing forever.” Nevertheless, that the wagoner and the horses are the soul can reach even greater heights has been completed,” when “no sadness Tzedoko must be limited. It must be thinking of other matters affect the than before. exists,” a day of spiritual pleasures, will given in a form that is acceptable to characterize these activities. They will the receiver. also be carried out with pleasure. The same concept applies to the mission 2. The purpose of Golus (Exile) is to with which the Previous Rebbe, the bring about Geulah leader of our generation, charged us: the task of spreading Torah and Mitzvos. The purpose of Golus (Exile) is to Since we were charged with this mission bring about Geulah (Redemption). The by the Rebbe, our commitment should Medrash comments “a Ilion’ arose in be unlimited. However, on a practical the ‘mazal of the lion’ — i.e. the month level, that unlimited commitment must with that sign of the Zodiac – and be focused on specific areas of activity. destroyed ‘Arilel’ in order that a Ilion, Efforts must be made to bring about come and rebuild ‘Arilel.111 The first certain definite activities that produce ‘lion’ refers to Nebuchadnezzer, the tangible results. Imazal of the lion, to the month of Av, Ari’el to Jerusalem, and the second [The same principle applies to the Ilion’ to G-d — “the lion has roared” concept “love G-d with all your might.” (Amos 3:8). Jerusalem was destroyed Chassidic thought explains that this by Nebuchadnezzer in the month of Av verse is a command to love G-d without in order that it be rebuilt by G-d. any restrictions, with unbounded feeling. However, there is a stress on The Medrash’s comparison of G-d to individual identity. The Rebbeim have a roaring lion has deeper significance. explained that the emphasis is on “your The roar of a lion represents an unlim- might.” What is beyond your limita- ited expression of energy. It refers to tions. However, what is unbounded the aspect of G-dliness that totally for one individual may lie within the transcends limitation. That aspect grasp of another.] of G-dliness was revealed in the Bais Hamikdosh. The Rambam explains Each one of us has to become excited that the purpose of the Bais Hamik- (to the point where we go beyond our dosh was to reveal the Schechina (the bounds) about the service of spreading Divine Presence) in the “place where the wellsprings of Torah. Simultane- the Ark rested.” The Ark was exact in ously, we must show a practical desire measurement: two and a half cubits to “get things done.” We must spread long. It was positioned exactly ten the campaign to increase the study of cubits from either wall. However, the Torah and gifts of Tzedokah and also width of the Kodesh HaKodeshim (the stress the other Mivtzoyim as well. room where the Ark rested) was only Through these actions, we will hasten twenty cubits. The “place where the the coming of Moshiach speedily in Ark rested” did not take up any space! our days. This was a combination of the finite (its 3. Shabbos Chazon, the Shabbos of exact measurements) and the infinite 4 CROWN HEIGHTS Newspaper ~August 8, 2008 Our Heroes

Horav Hachossid Hatomim Reb Yosef Yitzchok Deitsch Reb Yosef and his wife cared for the hundreds of girls who graduated from 1951- 8th of Av 2006 chapter 32) she live and be well, conducted a Machon Alte, making many of their home that was more like a hotel and shabbos kallahs, sheva brochos, and By: Rabbi Michoel Seligson The Kitchen in Samarkand a simcha hall. At any given moment, even sholom zochors and brissen. Reb Hachossid Reb Yosef Yitzchok Deitsch Reb Yosef’s grandparents Reb Mendel the house was filled, not just with their Yosef did not feel that his job was com- was born in 1951 on the 23rd of Elul and Mrs. Hinda Deitsch were known nieces and nephews from all over the plete by solely supporting the school in Montmorency, world who had come to study in financially. Welcoming an alumna of France to Horav Crown Heights, but with Yidden the school into his home, as a member Hachossid Hato- whose own families could not of the family, was the natural fruit of mim Reb Sholom host them. that support. After all, how could one Yeshaya and Mrs. ask a girl to leave her family’s way of People would remain for pro- Mirel Deitsch. The life, become Torah-observant, and then longed periods. For many people, Bris took place on leave her on her own?! either guests who had come to Rosh Hashana and spend Tishrei in Crown Heights We learn from the Talmud that one he was named after with the Rebbe or those who came who taught someone else’s child is the Previous Rebbe for a week or two, the Deitsch considered as if he had given birth to who had been home was their address. Numer- him. In many ways, Reb Yosef treated nistalek just a year- ous regulars attended the big every individual student as his own and-a half earlier. seudos, prepared by his wife, that child. His parents lived in Reb Yosef hosted every Shabbos France temporarily, When he became unwell, he travelled and Yom Tov. on route from Rus- to Houston for treatment. A Houston sia to the U.S. They Personal Interest in a Fellow resident, whose wife had been a Machon settled in Norwalk Jew Alte student, devoted himself to Reb Conn. in 1952 and Yosef in an exceptional way. He stated When anyone would discuss a moved to Crown that he and his wife felt indebted to serious matter with Reb Yosef, Heights in 1957. the Deitsch and Rosenfeld families. he would become involved in The Rebbe encour- Anything that he did for Reb Yosef that person’s concern as if it was aged Reb Sholom to would not compensate for all that had a personal matter; whether it purchase a house been done on his wife’s behalf when she concerned a shidduch, finding and although it was at Machon Alte. a physician, financial assistance, was financially dif- or encouragement and emotional Reb Yosef regularly inquired about ficult, Reb Sholom support. each individual Machon Alte student. borrowed money as great Baalei Chesed. During the He wanted to know how they were and bought the house at 669 Crown When Reb Yosef attended a simcha as difficult years of hunger in WWII, advancing in Yiddishkeit and whether Street. a guest, he celebrated the simcha as if Reb Mendel maintained a kitchen in their needs were being met. one of his own children was getting Reb Yosef became engaged in 1975 to Samarkand to feed many Yidden from married. Reb Yosef also invested enormously Miss Chana Rosenfeld, the daughter various backgrounds and saved their in Tiferes Zkeinim Levi Yitzchok, an of Horav Hachossid Reb Avrohom lives. Hiskashrus to the Rebbe organization founded by the Rebbe in Yitzchok Hakohen, the Rav of Rabbi “The Kiddush will be at 669 Crown Reb Yosef’s hiskashrus and devotion 1980, to organize shiurim for Jewish Simpson’s Shul in Boro Park. After Street” to the Rebbe was exceptional. He retirees. his wedding he joined his brother Reb maintained the study of the daily shiur Zalman in their business, together with Reb Yosef would often recall a story One needs to go where people are of Rambam, even when he wasn’t well. may they live and be well his younger about his father. Reb Sholom was in happy He took pride in anything connected brother, Horav Hatomim Reb Avrohom shul one Shabbos morning. It was the to the shechuna and would refuse to Reb Yosef liked to retell the following. Moshe, and his brother-in-law, Horav offrufinish of a young man, who in addi- hear anything negative about Crown AfterG imel Tamuz, someone consulted Hatomim Reb Gavriel Gopin. This tion to a number of other chasonim, was Heights. He was always ready and the Chossid Reb Mendel Futerfas, business partnership was very crucial receiving an aliyah prior to his wedding willing to contribute to the Rebbe’s regarding the avoda and perspec- to many different worldwide mosdos that week. This young man was the only campaigns and initiatives. tive that was currently required. Reb of the Rebbe, as it became a pillar of one for whom no kiddush announce- Mendel responded that one needs to support in establishing, developing and ment was made. Reb Sholom asked the He educated his children to go on go where people are happy, this being maintaining the mosdos. choson where his Kiddush would be shlichus, and prided himself on encour- a significant sign of life and truth. taking place. The young man told Reb aging and assisting his married children Reb Yosef was a chassidishe Yid, and These words encouraged Reb Yosef. Sholom that he was a double orphan to leave Crown Heights and move a G-d fearing individual who utilized He always had a smile, and shared with and was not having a Kiddush. Without to communities where they could his spare moments to study. He would others the joy of life and the warmth of further ado, Reb Sholom gave two loud spread the light of Yiddishkeit and always have a vort or a Sicha to share chassidus. bangs on the bima and announced in a Chassidus. with others from the Torah material ringing voice, “The chosson’sK iddush The Wheel of Life that he learned. He enjoyed hearing a Mosad Machon Alte: Tzedoko with will take place today after davening at geshmake dvar Torah in nigla or chas- body and soul Many times Reb Yosef would tell the 669 Crown Street, between Troy and sidus and especially a story about the following story, relaying a meaningful Schenectady!” Reb Yosef Deitsch was not just a baal Rebbe’im or chassidim. He was always lesson to all the participants at his chessed but also a baal tzedoko, and ready to make a Farbrengen and sing a After shul, he joyfully escorted the Shabbos table. in 1979 was among the founders of joyous chassidishe nigun or a nigun that choson and all the congregants to his Machon Alte in Tzfas. This school Once there was a man who had already expressed yearning for Hashem. home, where his wife served whatever was founded in memory of Reb Yosef’s married off his older children and was she had in the house for the unexpected Baal Ahavas Yisroel older sister, the shlucha Mrs. Alte Shula now happily marrying off his youngest simcha. She was used to these kinds of Schwartz, who was nifter at the age child, an accomplished and refined girl, Above all, he was a Baal Ahavas Yisroel “surprises”. of 29. The girls in Machon Alte were to a brilliant bochur with good midos. with his entire Nshama. This expressed Reb Yosef Deitsch inherited this quality taught Chumash and chassidus, as well This man was blessed with all the itself not only in courtesies or favors to from his father. The ability to see what as how to run a Jewish home. money he needed to make a beautiful others, but was based on the genuine someone else was missing, and with wedding. The music was playing and chassidic perspective on Ahavas Yis- Reb Yosef became involved in this warmth and tact, fill the need at just his entire family, as well as neighbors roel. As the Alter Rebbe explains, all mosad with his body, soul and financial the right time. and friends, were there in their finery. souls are always connected as one, even resources. He would travel to Israel to He was very well liked, and everyone when they find themselves as separate His Home was Like Hotel visit the mosad, and constantly urged was happy for him. Nachas and simcha bodies in this physical world. (Tanya, the expansion of the institute. Reb Yosef Deitsch and his wife may flowed freely, as did the finest wine, and August 8, 2008 ~ crOWN heights Newspaper 5

everyone wished him a heartfelt mazal here, and maybe stay on top just a little Yisroel and concern for a fellow Jew, Rebbe’s shliach in Brandon, Florida; his tov. He and his wife had every reason while longer.” it is noteworthy to quote from the son, Horav Eliyohu of Crown Heights; to be on top of the world. Hayom Yom for the 8th of Av, the day his daughter, Mrs. Hindy Brook, the This was one of many stories told by that Reb Yosef completed his avoda in wife of Horav Reb Yehoshua Zelig of In middle of the wedding, the father of Reb Yosef at his lively Shabbos table. this physical world and his Nshama Crown Heights; his son, Hatomim the bride suddenly seemed to go crazy. Reb Yosef, who was nifter at the age of returned to her creator. Chanoch Henoch of Crown Heights; He started to weep bitterly, and cried 54, knew very well the lesson of this and his daughter, Chaya Mushka of out, “Oy, ah tshvock! Ah tshvock!” (A story. Until the age of 52, when he was “From my grandfather’s aphorisms: Crown Heights. nail!) Not wanting to ruin the simcha, first diagnosed with a difficult illness, he What good is Chassidus and piety if his friends pulled him into a side room was a successful businessman and was the main quality is lacking - ahavas Yehi Zichro Boruch! May Hachossid and demanded, “What is the matter busy with good deeds. He had merited Yisroel, love of another - even to the Hatomim Reb Yosef Yitzchok, a pni- with you? Why are you crying for a marrying off a number of his beloved extent of causing (G-d forbid) anguish miusdike Chossid who was committed tshvock?” children, and he enjoyed nachas from to another.” to the love of a fellow Jew and who his grandchildren. But that is when he assisted them in any way that he could, The baal simcha explained, “Life is full Reb Yosef left, may they live and be needed a tshvock. who supported the Rebbe’s initiatives of high points and low points. This is the well, his wife, Mrs. Chana Deitsch; his and mosdos, and whose home was highest point I can imagine; marrying During his illness, Reb Yosef exerted daughter, Mrs. Fruma Ita Morosow, the always open to the many guests and stu- off my youngest child, such a fine shid- himself to be joyous, and not reveal his wife of Horav Elchonon, the Rebbe’s dents whose simchos he often hosted; duch, and everyone is here happy and difficulties and concern to the people Shliach in S. Clarita California; his son, serve as the inspiration to be sincerely healthy. Business is good and I easily around him. Horav Sholom Yeshaya, the Rebbe’s devoted and committed to the well paid for this fine wedding, as well as Shliach in Ridgefield, Connecticut; On the evening of Erev Tisha B’Av, being of every individual Jew, and to for everything the young couple will his daughter, Mrs. Alte Shula Heller, Reb Yosef was nifter. Reb Yosef was value each of them as a complete world need. But I know that life is a wheel and the wife of Horav Schneur Zalman buried next to his older brother, Reb and provide them with their needs. the wheel must turn. Whoever is on Halevi, menahel of the Yeshiva Chabad Zalman Deitsch, who was nifter a week top today may soon be on the bottom. in Staten Island, NY; his daughter, Mrs. We should speedily witness “The ones earlier. That is why I am begging Hashem for Tzipe Soro Rubashkin, the wife of who dwell in the dust will awaken and a tshvock, so I can stop the wheel right Reflecting on Reb Yosef’s Ahavas Horav Menachem Mendel Halevi, the rejoice” with Horav Hachossid Reb Yosef Yitzchok Deitsch among them.

Sicha on the 15th of Shvat, 5739 but still he credits himself for his suc- does not think about the Geulah? He An Exceptional Sicha about the from him, but because he wanted to cess — he forgets that his good fortune does. He waits for Moshiach and each Golus make his son appreciate their relation- is dependent on G-d. And if you ask day looks forward to his coming. Is he ship more. However, the son did not him...”What about G-d?” — he answers to stand at every moment hoping and “True, the father has to hide from the son understand. All he knew was that he — “Do not bring your demands to me waiting? That is impossible ...G-d can- so that the son will look for him with a could not find his father. Likewise, we ...take them to G-d Himself”...After all, not demand that. G-d only demands ...a greater thirst and desire. — But, must he ask, “Is G-d in our midst?” We know how long ...must we wait?” service which a Jew can perform. Such throw his son into a two-fold darkness?” that G-d exists, that He is Master of a service is beyond our capacities. G-d True, the father has to hide from the Published and copyright © by Sichos in the universe. We will even go further, did not give us such powers ...How can son so that the son will look for him English and admit that G-d creates the world He demand such a service? with a greater thirst and desire. — But, ex nihilo (something from nothing) at Translator’s note: A number of times must he throw his son into a two-fold Therefore, it is necessary to try to add every moment. We do not doubt that in the middle of this sicha, the Rebbe darkness? Our spiritual levels have light and joy by making a farbrengen. creation originates from transcendent cried. He spoke in an unusual tone, decreased. We do not have the pow- Thus, “happiness will break down levels of G-dliness. We only want to interspersing his intellectual analysis ers of our ancestors. As the Gemoro fences,” including the fences of darkness know, “Is G-d in our midst?” After all with expressions of overwhelming says, “If the previous generation are and concealment that have covered “we have seen no wonders, and none emotion. People have asked: Why hold considered as men, we are considered the world. The value of a Farbrengen of us know how long... our enemies a Farbrengen on Tu B’Shvat? To answer as donkeys,” and yet G-d still demands is further emphasized by a parable of will continue to insult.” It is not hard this we must realize that more darkness that we continue searching — and we the Baal Shem Tov. A king’s son had to reach the conclusion that G-d has has come into the world. We cannot have searched. Sunday we searched lost his way in a far away country. He abandoned the world. stand still without adding new light.. ...Monday we searched... was captured and imprisoned among The service that was sufficient for a At this point, the son has stopped uncultured men who did not know And when you look into the Torah, generation ago (or even a year ago) is no looking for his father. This ...is the real anything about a nobleman’s behavior. you find a clear statement. TheT almud longer adequate. Since there has been start of Golus. As long as the son was While in prison, the son received a mes- openly declares “All the appointed an increase in darkness, we must work searching for his father, the Golus was sage from his father. The message made times for the Moshiach’s arrival had to bring about an increase in light. not real. On the contrary — he was at him nappy, but being in prison, there s passed and now all is dependent only on the approach to the Geulah. The son no way he could express his happiness. Many Jews have become sad. They are Teshuvah.” And the Jews have already was looking for the father. That is all H is comrades would not understand tired of Golus and its hardships. They done Teshuvah. TheG emoro says that he cared about and all his efforts were that he was happy because he had are tired of endlessly waiting for the even a fleeting thought of Teshuvah is channeled in that direction. received word from his father, the king. Moshiach. They ask, “How long do we enough to make a person a “Tzaddik But he wanted to celebrate, and he came have to wait?” Even in the times of the But when the son stops looking — Gomor” (a complete righteous person) up with an idea. He set out “mashke” prophet Isaiah, the Jewish people were either because he does not know any and today, every Jew has had more (liquor) and everybody drank. Every- asking, “When, — How much longer better or because he has simply given up than one fleeting thought ofT eshuvah. one but him sang and danced because must we wait?” In the previous genera- — then his father really is hidden from Particularly after the horror of the of the mashke. The king’s son himself, tion as well (even before the times of him. The Baal Shem Tov...explained Holocaust — may such trouble never also sang and danced, but his happiness persecution) we cried out “until when?” that this is a two-fold kind of hiding. arise again. We saw and witnessed with was because of the message he received “The summer has past. The harvest has First, G-dliness is hidden from men, our own eyes and we remember now from his father. ended and still we have not been saved.” and second, the concealment itself is as well. Having lived through such a Especially now, after having ended all hidden. Man no longer even realizes catastrophe, it is impossible for a Jew The parable reflects the relationship the trials of Golus, the question “how that G-d is hidden. He no longer thinks not to have felt a fleeting thought of between the G-dly soul and the body much longer?” pierces the heart of the about G-d at all. Teshuvah — and still Moshiach has and physical world. The G-dly soul heavens. not come. ...knows that it must “serve G-d with What does he think about? The world. joy;” but it knows that the body will And we see that even though we cry out It is true he thought about it in a Kosher Given this situation, how can you ask not appreciate or understand that joy. and ask — G-d is silent. The Maggid of manner. So he learns Torah. But why why he does not wait for Moshiach. Therefore, it takes out mashke; it gets Mezritch explained this silence with a does he learn Torah — only because What is to be expected of him... he is the body drunk so that it will no longer parable. A father had a son. When the he knows he should. He has forgotten. only a limited being ...Furthermore, be an obstacle to the happiness of the son grew older, the father hid from him, about G-d, the giver of the Torah. The his limitations were created by G-d G-dly soul. not because he wanted to be separated same is true of business he is honest Himself. How can you ask why he 6 CROWN HEIGHTS Newspaper ~August 8, 2008 Shidduchim

A Needle in a Haystack they want to go home or if they are ok may even allow personal vendettas to stay our longer. and negiyus to control what they say We are discussing shidduch dating. boy is trying to make a turn in a side and how they say it. And the result? Although one does not want anyone to street, it is courteous to be silent while Shidduchim get driven down the drain. Last week we spoke about the prelimi- see that they are going out, if you come he concentrates on the driving. Some people don’t think before they naries of the first date. back late it is indicated for the boy to talk. Some people don’t think before If there is a long pause and you cannot make sure the girl is in the house before When our kids go out on the first date they do anything. They have something think of a topic of conversation look he leaves. Especially if she lives on a they feel - rightly - that it is a major step, on their mind, they have something around at your surrounding and see block that is not well lit. but we have to make them understand they feel they should say, and they say it, what can be commented on. Maybe that it is not such a scary step. Try to Keep the shadchen in the loop as long without recognizing the ramifications there is an interesting painting (if it is make them understand that the whole as you can. It makes things easier for of what they just did. Or, quite possibly, modern art you might wonder aloud decision does not lie in this one first all parties. When saying goodbye say they do realize the consequences of what the squiggles are supposed to date. This is just like a “handshake” something parev like it was nice to what they might say or do, but they represent), or the décor in the room at the beginning of a conversation. meet them without saying: “I had a don’t care too much about it. All the might give you inspiration. Do not Sure some people will analyze the great time” or such comment which while, these people are literally ruining make an inane comment just because “handshake” and tell you all kind of would make the other think you want other people’s lives and their ability to there is a lull. The responsibility for things about the person depending on to go out again. Even if you do wish to find shidduchim. conversation on a date rests on both whether they grip hard or if the hand go out again leave it up to the shadchan the boy and the girl, neither one need Hashem yeracheim. is dry or how long they hold the hand to advise the other party about it. You s to be the only one thinking up new Name Withheld for Obvious Reasons etc. But for most people a hand shake is might be embarrassed later if you were subjects, but both should initiate and just a handshake. The same with a first enthusiastic but the other side does not A Word About Tisha B'Av follow up. Try not to give monosyllabic date, it is just the initial step in meeting wish to go out again. answers. Even if the answer is just yes This coming Sunday is Tisha B’Av. the other person. or no, explain your answer and carry Call the shadchan as soon as you can We all mourn the fact that once again If your child is going out in a different on the conversation. after the date. Naturally if you return we are fasting this Tisha B’Av instead town than you live in, and you have a in the middle of the night, call the next of rejoicing in the Beis Hamikdash. Telling stories of the Rabbeim is ok relative or close acquaintance in that morning. We also mourn all the tragedies and on a date but do not turn it into a town, you might want to have that destructions that have fallen upon Klal marathon story session. (It did happen It is also good at this time to look person help your child get ready for Yisroel throughout this long golus. that on a shidduch date the boy just over your original list and see what their first date. People who are not told stories one after the other, your impressions were compared We can also be sad on TishaB'Av for our involved in the parsha of shidduchim do and although the to your original personal sadness, maybe we have been not realize how very important secrecy girl did enjoy the wants. Do not looking for a long time for a shidduch is in this one endeavor. Therefore you stories – at least in make a study of which has not come yet. Perhalps now might want to tell your relative or friend the beginning – it it, this is only we can use this introspective time to that you are keeping this very under grew boring very the first shid- reevaluate our lives our wants, our wraps and please do not mention it to quick.) duch date and your priorities and methods. anyone. first impressions The young man We see how right away after midday just My first ever shidduch date was in may not be on the should ask the when the Beis Hamikdash was actually Eretz Yisroel and my parents were not spot. young lady what set on fire, the stringency of our mourn- there, Rebbetzen Sara Levin helped she would like to A Letter that ing becomes a degree lighter, we do not me through the decision and she told drink. Do not ask bears Publishing have to sit on low stools and men are me never to decide negatively on a first if she wants a drink and then able to wear a tallis for mincha etc. At date. Even if I thought that it was not On a sub- ject we have already covered happily accept her refusal. When the that time we start being consoled, and the right person I should give it a second but which should be reiterated. I found young lady finishes her drink, it is so too, all those who have looked long chance. I took her advice and followed this letter posted today on an internet polite to ask if she would like a refill. and hard and not yet been zoche to find it and I told my own children the same. site: something to think about: It will show that you are considerate their besherte should take heart how All of us wish for a second chance, it of other’s wants and that you are not Dear [email protected], the Aibishter is consoling Klal Yisroel. does not cost us too much to give a “parsimonious”. Just like there has been hardship in the person a second chance in this case. We hear people talk about shidduchim search there is hashgacha protis that is Even if we are sure the first time that it Especially on a first date the young all the time. We all know how important just waiting for the right time to bring is not for us, going out twice will make couple should not reprimand the other, it is that everyone do their utmost to that special person. Tu B’Av is coming us doubly sure. In the future we will not even mildly. If you noticed something help others find shidduchim. right behind and with it the promise think back and wonder if we had made that disturbed you, make a mental note What occurred recently with regard of new things, Elul follows with Rosh the right decision, we will know that we to bring it up if the relationship develops to a specific shidduch was absolutely Hashana. A new year, a new beginning made the right decision, further. Therefore if he drives a bit fast mind boggling. A shidduch was redd with new energies and hopes that the or if his tip is not up to your standard Our kids should go out with no expecta- and things were looking good, until coming year may bring zivugim to do not make a mention of it. Similarly tions that – as is the common expression someone disclosed some information everyone who is looking. if she does not fasten her seat belt or if – they will “click”. The first time out and to one side. The person who disclosed you think her heels are too high, do not So let us use Tisha B’Av to reassess even the second and third for some, the information may be thought to comment. This is after all just the first ourselves and our direction, to put are a time to see if you can get along, be an upstanding person, although time you are meeting. our bitochon even more on Hakodosh have an interesting conversation on any his actions clearly indicated that he Boruch Hu. May we use Tisha B’Av to general topic. The first outing is not the If one needs to go to the rest room by lacked some common sense and acu- send us with better tools intoE lul where time for serious discussions and heavy all means excuse yourself and go, but men. The information this person the King is in the field (Melech BaSade) topics. If the couple finds that they do not stop to make phone calls or redo shared was largely false, completely ready to listen to our bakoshos, and then understand each other and can easily your make up, it is uncomfortable for misrepresented, and for the most part, let us rejoice on Simchas Torah --where converse, there will be other occasions the other person to have to wait so long completely irrelevant to the shidduch. we show by moving out into huts that when questions can be asked and more for you to come back. This information would not have made we rely totally on the Aibishter,-- sure serious topics raised. If our child does any difference in anyone’s lives had Do not stay out too long on a first date. that our requests have been granted not have the gift of facile conversation, it not been revealed. But this person Take note of the body language of your and that all be zoche to build a Beis help them think of innocuous topics to decided to talk. And talk he did. Many partner. If they repeatedly look at their Neeman B’Yisroel. bring up. It is ok if there are occasional people clearly do not know how to deal watch or if they yawn it might be a sign silences. Do not feel you have to fill with giving information when it comes they wish to end the date. It may also in every silence with chatter. If our to shidduchim. They do not askG edolei be a nervous reaction. Some people daughter is a chatterbox we might want Rabbonim as to what they are allowed do look at their watches without really to remind her that at times it is good to and not allowed to say. They do not use seeing the time when they are nervous. hold back and keep silent. If for example their seichel before divulging sensitive, Therefore ask if they had a long day and they are driving in heavy traffic and the but unnecessary information. They August 8, 2008 ~ crOWN heights Newspaper 7 From Shedlitz to Safety A Young Jew’s Story of Survival By Rabbi Shimon Goldman the spiritual grace of pre-war Jewry, comfortable at Rabbi Tzukerman’s arrived in town with Rabbi Predmetzki, and the warm, sincere homes of their home and he always received me the rav of a prestigious congregation in Exerpted from the book with the author’s parents, and they desired no less for the graciously. His home was graced with the Bronx. Rabbi Predmetzki was also permission Jewish children of Buffalo. RebL eibish Chassidic warmth and vitality. His the Vice-Chairman of the “Union of Continued from previous issue Silberstein, the honorary President of pious manner prompted me to improve Orthodox Rabbis of America.” Among the school, worked hard to raise money my personal spiritual growth and my his many other talents, the Lithuanian Buffalo for our activities. He was ably assisted study of Torah. Rabbi Tzukerman born rabbi was a fiery orator, famous by two shochtim — Mr. Landau and learned Torah day and night, constantly for captivating large audiences with his In the 1940’s, Torah-true Judaism Mr. Siggel — and a third individual immersed in the holy books around spellbinding speeches. The Rashag, too, was virtually non-existent in Buffalo. who became the school secretary. him. He also proofread and reprinted spoke skillfully, but Rabbi Predmetzki Though many synagogues boasted Chiddushei MaHari Kurkos — an had special charm with potential large congregations, most Jews did not During my stay in Buffalo,I found time ancient commentary on the Rambam. donors, and the Rashag often recruited practice all the mitzvos, and certainly to visit the magnificent Niagara Falls, I became very close with this great the rav to help the cause of Tomchei not openly. Rare exceptions existed a natural wonder that can only arouse rav and he later participated in my Tmimim. but, in the overall picture, the future awe and admiration at the beauty of wedding. of Buffalo Jewry looked bleak. Hashem’s Creation. At times, visitors to Seeing these venerable rabbis alone Buffalo would ask me to serve as their Jews from surrounding areas often aroused a sense of reverence. Whenever The situation of Jewish youth in Buf- guide to the falls. came to consult with Rabbi Tzuk- this distinguished pair entered the falo was a sorry one. Even those who erman on matters of Jewish law. Even home of a donor, the host would listen came from so-called “religious” homes (Niagara Falls played an important residents of Rochester would drive all respectfully as they outlined the unique quickly abandoned their Jewish ways role in the life of many refugees. These the way to Buffalo to speak with Rabbi character of Tomchei Tmimim, and for the carefree pleasures of American wondrous waterfalls lie on the border Tzukerman regarding divorce cases and often contributed far more than to an life. I can think of only a handful of between Canada and the United States, other complex issues. He presided over ordinary charity. Indeed, the Rashag’s families — like the lawyer Shulgasser and many refugees used this area gittin and other complicatedH alachic visit was incredibly successful. He and and his sons — who retained their as a point of entry into Canada. In matters. I could always tell whenever Rabbi Predmetzki spent the better Yiddishkeit and succeeded in raising those days, the Canadian government Rabbi Tzukerman was scheduled to part of the week visiting the donors religious children. Thankfully, our new imposed strict restrictions on refugees perform a divorce. From early on in on our list and they managed to raise Day School began turning the tide. waiting to be admitted into the country. the morning, he exhibited palpable significant funds for the yeshiva. Many hapless Jews had visas waiting strain and anguish — tortured at the Before I arrived in Buffalo, RabbiT zvi in the American consulate, yet were thought of separating a Jewish couple, As the week drew to a close, Rabbi Fogelman (today of Worcester, Mas- turned away at the Canadian border. and anxious about properly fulfilling Predmetzki voiced his determination sachusetts) ran the yeshiva. When I In desperation, many Jews traveled the many intricate laws associated with to return home for Shabbos. “Must came, Rabbi Fogelman left to run the to Buffalo and then to Niagara Falls, gittin. (RabbiT zukerman’s son-in-law, you leave?” said the Rashag in anguish. yeshiva in New Haven; Rabbi Moshe hoping to find a way into Canada to Rabbi Sholom Rivkin, served for many “I had planned that you would speak Yitzchak Hecht left to help the yeshiva obtain their visas. years as the senior rav of St. Louis.) in various synagogues on Shabbos in Worcester; and Rabbis Aron Popack and continue fundraising with me on and David Eidelman took control of the A certain individual, a wealthy Jew with Rabbi Tzukerman gave his rabbinical Sunday.” yeshiva in Buffalo. a warm heart, found an ingenious way supervision to “High Great,” a slaugh- “I cannot stay for Shabbos,” answered of assisting these unfortunate people. terhouse in Buffalo where they shechted I arrived at the yeshiva building on the rabbi. “I promised my wife to return Using his private yacht, the wealthy cattle.H e arrived every day by bus and Butler Street, and Rabbi Popack imme- home for Shabbos.” magnate picked up groups of refugees at spent hours validating the sharpness of diately gave me a class of children to Niagara Falls, dressed them in lifejack- the slaughter knives and supervising teach. I taught with heart and soul, The Rashag could hardly believe his ets and swimming gear, and sailed them the work. After some time, the local returning home at night with my ears. Every dollar the collected was into Canadian waters. The businessman shochtim began convincing me to clothes drenched in sweat. “Don’t exert vital for the advancement of Tomchei could trust no one else with this risky learn shechita, and Rabbi Tzukeman yourself so much,” my new friends tried Tmimim, yet the rav refused to stay in scheme; he alone ferried the refugees also persuaded me in this direction. counseling me. “Take it easy with your the city another day. He tried reasoning out of Buffalo and into Canada. I spent many months learning the classes.” with Rabbi Predmetzki, but the rav necessary laws and practicing, until I would not reconsider. “I promised my I could not follow their advice. As The magnate owned a private waterfront finally received rabbinical ordination wife already,” he repeated. “I must be a Chassid, I knew the Rebbe was villa in Canada, where he brought his to shecht both fowl and cattle. At that home for Shabbos.” counting on every one of us to make “guests” after the boat ride. Once there, point, I began working alongside the lasting inroads in Jewish education. I the refugees changed back into regular shochtim in the slaughterhouse. Since I Realizing he alone could not raise constantly repeated the maxim of our clothing and left in small groups, trying did not yet have a family to support, the more money, the Rashag was left Sages, “Words that come from the heart, to remain inconspicuous. Now that wage I received from the company was with no alternative but to join Rabbi enter the heart.” I knew I had to exert they were in Canada, the refugees made more than enough to cover my needs. Predmetzki and return to New York great toil and effort in order to truly their way to the American embassy in I spent many months in the pleasant by train on Thursday night. Even in instill in my students a lasting love of Toronto, where they received the visas company of other shochtim and, in all, Buffalo, I tried very hard not to miss Torah and mitzvos. without question. Many refugees were my stay was an enjoyable one. a Shabbos in 770, and I often took the thus able to settle permanently in the Thursday night train back toN ew York, Many Jewish residents of Buffalo United States.) Many people visited the established so that I ended up sitting in the same watched the developments at our Jewish community in Buffalo. One compartment as the Rashag and Rabbi yeshiva with detached bemusement, Though many prominent rabbis graced day, we received a telegram from the Predmetzki. The eminent scholars were still confident that one day the yeshiva the city of Buffalo,I will only mention Rashag, informing us of his intention engaged in discussion, when the Rashag would collapse and fold. “There’s no Reb Dov Berish Tzukerman, a gaon to visit Buffalo to raise funds for the suddenly brought the issue up again. future for the Torah way in Buffalo,” and distinguished personality who worthy cause of Yeshivas Tomchei “Did we really have to leave?” he said. people said to us time and time again. possessed many outstanding char- Tmimim. As chief administrator of “Couldn’t you stay over Shabbos?” “It simply won’t work.” acteristics. A Chassid of Belz, Rabbi the yeshiva, the Rashag often traveled Tzukerman was exceedingly pious around the country, soliciting dona- “But I promised my wife!” answered They were wrong. The yeshiva grew and scholarly. He came originally from tions to keep all branches of Tomchei the rav in exasperation. steadily as the classes expanded, accom- Galicia but, after the war, he leftE urope Tmimim functioning in perfect order. plishing significant religious change in and moved to Buffalo. The Rebbe held In his telegram, the Rashag asked us to “What do you mean?” retorted the the city. To our good fortune, certain Rabbi Tzukerman in great regard and prepare a list of potential donors and to Rashag sarcastically. “Yes, your wife local Jews had faith in our project and conversed with him in Torah matters. arrange appointments during the few wants you to come home — so what worked hard to provide us with stable days he would spend in Buffalo. of it?” financial support. They remembered Having grown up in Poland, I felt very Indeed, after a few days, the Rashag 8 CROWN HEIGHTS Newspaper ~August 8, 2008 Parshas Hashavua

QUESTION: The Midrash Rabbah ANSWER: Moshe was admonishing Vedibarta Bam ~ Devorim (1:13) writes, “If we look [well] into the them not only for their behavior in By Rabbi Moshe Bogomilsky blessings of Moshe, we shall find that connection with the spies, but also for [tochiach...]” — “You shall reprove they con-tain blessings from one end of their behav¬ior at the receiving of the — (your fellow]” (Vayikra 19:17] "אלה הדברים אשר the world to the other. This is evident Torah. He said to them, “Originally I ?means even one hundred times דבר משה אל כל from the words ‘elef pe’amim;’ in the admired your behavior at Sinai. It was ישראל" ANSWER: There are two kinds of plural, in lieu of elef pa’am in singular, encouraging to see how the young hon- “These are the rebuke: which indicates an astronomical figure, ored the elders and the elders honored words that Moshe not simply ‘a thousand times.’ ” the lead¬ers. 1) Direct confrontation: specifying spoke to all Israel.” the wrongdoing and admonishing the Both elef pa’am and elef pe’amim basi- “However, after observing such refined (1:1) perpetrator for committing the act. cally mean “a thousand times.” How character traits, I was greatly puzzled QUESTION: What does the Midrash derive that Moshe when I saw the opposite take place in 2) A more subtle method: not men- is the Torah emphasizing by beginning meant to bless them to reach such an re-gard to Eretz Yisrael. In retrospect, tioning the iniquity directly, but the Book of Devarim with the word astronomical figure? I then realized that you are far from a encouraging the person to improve “Eileh” — “these are”? refined people. I surmised that since his conduct. The advantage of the latter ANSWER: If Moshe had said, “G d Torah repre-sents spirituality and ANSWER: Moshe started delivering is that the erring individual is spared make you so many more as you are requires diligent study and perfor- his legacy speech to Klal Yisrael on embarrassment. elef pa’am — one thousand times,” it mance of mitzvot, your deference to Rosh Chodesh Shevat, and he passed would have meant that the population When the Torah says “Hochei’ach the elders was not an expression of away thirty-six days later on the seventh of six hundred thousand should be tochiach” — “You shall reprove” — it respect, but, rather the consequence day of Adar. The word “eileh” ( ) has multiplied by one thousand, making concludes “velo tisa alav cheit” — “and of spiritual apathy. Since you were אלה the numerical value of thirty-six, and the Jews a nation of six hundred million. do not bear a sin because of him” — uninterested in a spiritual life you said, the Torah is alluding to the fact that Moshe’s berachah was much greater: which can also be explained liter¬ally ‘Let the eld¬ers, who are already retired for thirty-six days he spoke words of By saying “elef pe’amim” he meant that to mean, “Do not bring up the sin and less interested in worldly matters, admon¬ishment to Klal Yisrael. their number should be doubled one to him” — that is, be careful not to engage in the study of Torah.’ -thousand times. In other words, start )אור החיים( mention the particular sin, and thus ing with six hundred thousand, after “I reached this conclusion when, he will not be embarrassed. This type the first “making you so many more as motivated by desire to enter Eretz of rebuke may and should be repeated, QUESTION: Why did Moshe admon- you are” they will be one million two Yisrael, a place blessed with all kinds even one-hundred times. However, ish them for thirty-six days? hundred thou¬sand, then when this is of physical and material delights, you since Moshe’s current rebuke consisted doubled, they will be two million four stampeded, pushing the elders and ANSWER: In the Midrash Rabbah of specifying through veiled references, hundred thousand, then four million lead¬ers aside and running before the (Lamentations 1:1) Rabbi Levi says, the sins committed, he waited until (כלי יקר) ”.eight hundred thousand, etc. Thus, as m “The Jewish people did not go into exile immediately before his death so that this is repeated one thousand times, "וישמע ה' את קול דבריכם ויקצף" until they had renounced the thirty-six his words would be accepted and they the population will very quickly reach ordinances in the Torah, for which the would not have to face him constantly an astronomical figure. “G d heard the sound of your words, and penalty is kareit — excision.” (The word and be embarrassed. (He was incensed.” (1:34 )בינה לעתים( )דברי שאול( how” — which“ — (איכה) ”eichah“ ”QUESTION: The word “kol” — “sound "הואיל משה באר את התורה הזאת" is the opening word of the book of Lamenta¬tions, has the numerical value — is superfluous? The pasuk could have It is related that the king of Persia was of thirty-six.) “Moshe began explaining this Torah.” just said, “And G d heard your words”? very impressed with the person who (1:5) According to the Zohar, the three hun- created the game of chess and offered ANSWER: A story is told about Reuven dred and sixty-five negative command- QUESTION: The word “ho’il” — to grant him any wish. The man said who spread a rumor that Shimon was a ments in the Torah correspond to the “began” — appears super¬fluous. It to the king, “There are 64 squares on thief. Shimon brought him before the three hundred and sixty-five days of the could have just said, ‘bei’ir Moshe et the chess board. I would be satisfied if Rabbi and it was ruled that on Shab- solar calendar, and by transgressing a haTorah hazot” — “Moshe explained you would put a grain of wheat in the bat morning, Reuven was to publicly negative commandment, one adversely this Torah”? first square and double in the next, and announce, “What I said about that affects the day corresponding to that so forth.” The king laughed about this Shimon is a thief is a lie.” On Shabbat ANSWER: In Torah study there are negative commandment. (See Zo¬har, meager request, but soon realized that morning Reuven ascended to the podium many difficulties and questions which Bereishit 170b, Rambam, Introduction he would not have enough wheat in his and announced as ordered, “What I said remain unanswered. In many such to Mishneh Torah.) country to fill the request.I n the second that Shimon is a thief is a lie?!” (with a cases, the Talmud concludes a discus- square there would be two grains, in question intonation) which (תיקו) ”Moshe knew through Divine inspira- sion with the word “teiku the third square there would be four. tion that the Jews would ultimately be is an abbreviation for “Tishbi yetareitz Shimon immediately ran to the Rabbi In the tenth square there would be 512, exclaiming, “Rabbi, this announcement תשבי יתרץ קושיות) ”exiled for violating thirty-six negative kushi’ot ve’abayot in the twenty-first there would be over Eliyahu the] Tishbi will is ruining my reputation. The situation]“ — (ואבעיות ,(commandments (Sanhedrin 104a a million, and in the thirty-first there which would affect thirty-six days of the resolve all difficulties and questions.” is now worse than before.” would be over a billion. year. Therefore he admonished them for Eventually when Eliyahu comes to The Rabbi summoned Reuven and asked )מעינה של תורה( thirty-six days as a corrective. herald the revelation of Mashiach, he him, “Why did you do such a thing?” "ותקרבון אלי כלכם ותאמרו נשלחה will also explain and clarify all the )בית יעקב - ברכות טוב( Reuven answered, “Rabbi, I said the exact אנשים לפנינו ויחפרו לנו את הארץ" unanswered difficulties and unresolved Torah issues. words you told me to say. Is it my fault “All of you approached me and said, ‘Let It is interesting to note that Parshat that I am not a chazan and do not know us send men ahead of us and let them (הואיל) ”The letters in the word “ho’il Devarim is always read on the Shabbat how to sing properly?” can be rearranged to read “Eliyahu” spy out the land.’ ” (1:22) preceding Tishah B’Av, the day when While Moshe explained the When the messengers returned from .(אליהו) the book of Eichah — Lamentations QUESTION: Rashi writes that Moshe Torah very clearly, he knew that in Eretz Yisrael their report was that “Good — is read. told them, “At the receiving of the future generations difficulties would is the land that G d, our G d, is giving us” Torah the young honored the elders, arise in comprehending Torah subjects (1:25). If this was their report, why was "דבר משה אל בני ישראל" letting them go ahead, and the elders and, therefore, he hinted that any lack Hashem upset with them? The reason “Moshe spoke unto the Children of honored the leaders by letting them of clarity will ultimately be elucidated was that although their words were Israel.” (1:3) go before them. At the sending of the through the prophet Eliyahu. superfi¬cially proper, the problem was spies, however, all of you approached the “kol” — the voice (tone) with which )עשרה מאמרות( QUESTION: Rashi explains that me in confusion, the young pushing Moshe rebuked them only when he they said them. The message the people the eld¬ers and the elders pushing the "ה' אלקי אבותיכם יוסף עליכם ככם was close to death in order to avoid heard was, “Good is the land that G d, ”.leaders אלף פעמים" rebuking them again and again. How our G d, is giving us?!” — a ques¬tion does this accord with the statement “May G d, the G d of your forefathers, Why, in admonishing them for their rather than a declaration. )פון אונזער אלטען אוצר( of the Gemara (Bava Metzia 31a) that make you so many more as you are a improper behavior, does he also bring in the Torah command, “Hochei’ach thousand times.” (1:11) their good behavior at Mount Sinai? August 8, 2008 ~ crOWN heights Newspaper 9

of Nebuchadnezzar, King of Babylon. terrible blood bath. This, too, occurred The Fast Of Tisha B’Av This occurred on the fateful day of on Tisha bAv. Tisha bAv (in the year 3338). Finally, as forewarned by our prophets, The ninth day of Av commemorates through the desert, none was left of that After 70 years of exile in Babylon, the the enemy caused a plow to be drawn five dreadful calamities which befell generation (with the exception of the Jews were permitted to return to their over the site where Jerusalem and the our people at different times tribe of Levi) save Joshua and Caleb, land. They rebuilt their BethH amikdosh Beth Hamikdosh once stood, which sig- the only two faithful members of the The first of these occurred in the desert, (3408) and organized their national life. naled the complete defeat of our people. “spies” who had been loyal to G-d. in the second year after the children of But once again they strayed from the Like the previous four catastrophies, Israel were liberated from Egypt. They In the year 2488 the children of Israel G-d-given path and came to grief. This this one also took place on the same had reached Kadesh Barnea almost entered the Promised Land and settled time the Romans under Titus destroyed unhappy day of Tisha bAv. on the border of the Promised Land, down to a life of an independent nation Jerusalem and the Beth Hamikdosh We commemorate these five calamities and were ready to start on the last leg (3828), by fasting on Tisha bAv from sundown of their journey, when they decided after it had of the eighth day to nightfall of the to send out “spies” to spy out the land existed for ninth. for them. After forty days, the spies 420 years, returned from their errand with an ten years We Jews do not want to conceal our evil report, completely crushing the more than defeat and humiliation, because we children of Israel with fear. In their the first. want to learn our lesson from defeats as faithlessness, the children of Israel shed Again this well as from triumphs. We realize that bitter tears that night (the night ofT isha calamity these calamities befell us because we bAv), having lost all faith in G-d. G-ds occurred had forsaken G-d and the command- anger was roused and He decreed that o n t h e ments of the Torah. We realize that that night would be marked as a night fateful day only by acknowledging our sins and of true grief in generations to come. of Tisha trying to make amends will we merit G-d further decreed that the faithless bAv. G-ds mercies and be reinstated into generation who had witnessed G-ds his favor. Like a merciful father who About wonders and miracles, yet lost their had banished his wayward son in dis- on their own soil. Four and a half fifty years later the Jews made a des- faith so shamelessly, would not live to grace, but had received him back with centuries later (in the year 2928) King perate attempt to shake off the cruel see the Promised Land, and only their increased affection and love, after his Solomon erected the beautiful Beth Roman oppression. The revolt was led children would enter and inherit it. For son had bravely borne his punishment Hamikdosh in Jerusalem, and for 410 by Bar-Cochba, who was successfully the next 38 years, therefore, the night of and turned over a new leaf, so will G-d years it stood in all its glory. But when entrenched in the stronghold of Bethar. Tisha bAv was marred by a heavy toll receive us back with love and affection the Jews had turned away from the path Unfortunately, the revolt failed and in dead, and the stillness of the desert far greater than ever before, and never of the Torah, they forfeited their land. was crushed by Emperor Hadrian of air was rent by the cries of the bereaved. the twain shall part. The Beth Hamikdosh was destroyed the Romans. The city of Bethar was By the end of the forty years wandering by Nebuzaradan, captain of the hosts captured and destroyed (3880) amid a

Tisha B’Av Laws the fast, he should recite Havdalah Gittin. recited, but one lights a candle and (Reprinted from Chabad.org) before eating [since Havdalah was not recites the blessing on the creation of - One should not greet a friend and ask recited the previous night because of fire (Bore Me’orei Haesh). On Shabbat, Saturday afternoon one how he is. lf one is greeted by a friend, the Ninth of Av]. must finish eating before sunset, one however, he should respond so as not [On Sunday night - The full Havdala may eat meat and evberything else, - One may not rinse his mouth on the to cause bad feelings, but in a lowered is recited at the conclusion of the fast, as the royal meal at King Solomon’s Ninth of Av until the end of the fast. tone of voice. It is also forbidden to send however the blessings on the creation of table. We do not eat the egg and bread gifts on the Ninth of Av. fire and on the spices are omitted]. - Washing for pleasure is forbidden both dipped in ashes as on Shabbat we may in warm and in cold water. However, - It is customary on the Ninth of Av AfterS hemoneh Esreh, Kaddish is said not observe mourning customs. if one’s hands are dirty, he may wash to refrain from doing any work which and Eicha - Lamentations - is read, fol- The laws of the Ninth of Av them. He may also wash his hands must be done over an extended period lowed by the recital of Kinot. Following upon arising in the morning as he does of time, for engaging in such activity Kinot, we say V’Attah Kadosh which There are five things forbidden on every day, as well as after using the distracts one from feeling a sense of is followed by Kaddish. The stanza of the Ninth of Av: eating and drinking, bathroom. However, he may not wash mourning. One should refrain from this Titkabel is omitted from this Kaddish washing oneself, anointing oneself the entire hand but should only wash type of work on the night of the Ninth of and from the Kaddish recited at the with oil, wearing leather shoes, and his fingers. Av and until midday the next day. After end of Shacharit as well. At Minchah, cohabitation. midday, such work is not customarily however, Titkabel is included in the - When cooking and preparing food, The prohibition of wearing shoes forbidden but nevertheless it is proper Kaddish. one may wash the food since the inten- applies to those made of leather. Shoes for each person to be stringent with tion is not to wash one’s hands. Titkabel is omitted because it is a made of linen or rubber may be worn. himself and avoid such work until the petition that our prayers be accepted. However, if they are covered by leather - All of the prohibitions mentioned are fast is over. Since we read in Eicha (3:8) that “My or if they have leather soles, they may applicable from sunset of the eve of the From the night of the Ninth of Av until prayer has been shut off”, how can we not be worn. Ninth of Av until the end of the fast. midday, one should sit on the floor or petition G-d to accept our prayers if There is no difference between the night As noted earlier, the study of Torah is on a low stool. they have been shut off! Some do not of the Ninth of Av and the day. One may prohibited on the Ninth of Av because omit Titkabel from the Kaddish recited Ma’ariv eat only before sunset on the eve of the Torah study brings a person joy. How- afterS hemoneh Esreh because Eichah Ninth of Av; twilight is considered to ever, one is permitted to study the In the Maariv, we include the usual has not yet been read. be night and eating is forbidden. third chapter of tractate Mo’ed Katan Shabbat night insertion of “Ata Cho- Our Sages (Eichah Rabbah) write: which deals with the laws of mourning nantanu”. Those who do not recite All are required to fast on the Ninth G-d said [to the angels at the time of and excommunication. One may also the evening prayers should recite the of Av, including pregnant women the Destruction]: What does a mortal study the Medrash to the Book of Eicha following verse: “Baruch haMavdil and nursing mothers. One who is ill, king do when he is in mourning? He with its commentaries; and Job with its ben Kodesh leChol” . Havdalah is not however, may eat even if his illness commentaries, for these works awaken Continued on page 10 is not life-threatening. However, an a sense of sorrow in the reader. One may ill person should refrain from eating also study the chapters of admonition delicacies and should eat only that PIRKEI AVOS SHIUR and calamities recorded in Jeremiah; which is absolutely necessary for his For Women and Girls however, one should be careful to skip physical well-being. those verses that speak of consolation. NO SHIUR THIS WEEK! If the Ninth of Av falls on a Sunday One may also study the aggadah about and a sick person needs to eat during the Destruction recorded in tractate 10 CROWN HEIGHTS Newspaper ~August 8, 2008 Matters of Finance

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Tisha B'Av Laws Shacharit, but put them on at Minchah (Devarim 4:25) It shall be when you reason for the omission of Nachem Continued from Page 9 instead. The basis for this latter ruling bear children, which speaks of the during Shacharit is that in the morning is the fact that tefillin are referred to destruction of the land. A chapter from one is considered to be like one whose extinguishes the lanterns [in his palace]. as being our “glory” and on the Ninth Yirmeyahu (8:13-9:23), which speaks dead relative lies before him unburied, I too will do the same, as the verse (Yoel of Av our glory is absent. The source of the Destruction, is read as the day’s that is, he is not receptive to words of 2:10) states: The sun and moon have for the former ruling is the verse in haftorah. consolation. We therefore wait to say become darkened. Eichah (2:1 7) which states: He has Nachem until Minchah, when a person After the Torah reading, Kinot are - At night only a single light is lit at carried out his declaration, which the is capable of being consoled. One who recited which are followed, in some the amud of the synagogue and the Targum interprets as “He has torn his forgot to say Nachem or Anenu does communities, by the repetition of the parochet is removed from the ark. It is tallit,” a play on the Hebrew words. not repeat Shemoneh Esreh. reading of Eichah -without a bracha. replaced before Mincha. Some communities have a custom of Afterwards, we say Ashrei, skip la- The night following the Ninth of Av donning the tallis and tefillin at home, Eicha Menatze’ach since the Ninth of Av is reciting the Shema, and then going to It is customary to wash one’s hands at referred to as a mo’ed - a holiday - and Eicha is read. When the verse of Hashiv- the synagogue for Shacharit. Others night until the wrist, as usual. proceed with U’Va L’Tziyon. Within enu is read [the next to the last verse don the tallit and tefillin forS hacharit the latter prayer, the verse “And this is If the Ninth of Av falls on a Sunday, and in Eicha], the congregation recites the but remove them before reading Eichah My covenant” is omitted. as a consequence the Havdalah blessing verse aloud followed by the reader. and reciting Kinot. over wine was not made at the end of The reader then reads the last verse - It is customary to give charity on every The Shacharit service is the same as Shabbat, it is made at the end of the whereupon the congregation repeats fast day, for our Sages have said that during a regular weekday except for Ninth of Av. We recite Havdalah over Hashivenu once again as does the the reward for the fast comes through minor changes which relate to the fast. wine - even though it is customary to reader. the charity that is given to the poor on When repeating Shemoneh Esreh, the refrain from drinking wine until after that day. lf the Ninth of Av falls on Saturday chazan inserts Anenu between the midday on the tenth of Av, since most night, the prayer of Vihi No’am is berachot of Go’el Yisrael and Refa’enu Mincha of the Sanctuary was actually destroyed omitted. The theme of this prayer is as is done on every fast day. Tachanun on the tenth. When making Havdalah, At mincha, we don the tallit and tefil- the completion of the Mishkan and it is not said on the Ninth of Av since the we recite only the berachot on wine and lin and read the portion of Vaychal is thus inappropriate on the Ninth of day is referred to as being a mo’ed - a Ha-Mavdil. The bracha on the candle is (Shemos 32) followed by the haftarah of Av when we mourn the destruction. holiday. Birkat kohanim [the priestly omitted since it was said afterS habbat. Dirshu Hashem (Yeshayahu 55:6-56:8) V’AttahK adosh is recited after reading blessing] is omitted during Shacharit The bracha on spices is also omitted, for as on every fast day. In the Shemoneh Eichah but is recited at Minchah. that berachah too is pertinent only at Esreh the Nachem prayer is added to the end of Shabbat, Shacharit The psalm of the day andE in k’Elokeinu the blessing of Boneh Yerushalayim are omitted at the end ofS hacharit. It is and Anenu is added to the blessing of A Kiddush Levanah [the sanctification - Some follow the custom of omitting customary to say these prayers before Shome’a Tefillah.W hy is Nachem added of the new moon] is recited immediately the blessing of “Who provided me with donning tefillin at Mincha.N achem is in Minchah rather than in Shacharit? after Ma’ariv following the Ninth of all my needs” in the morning blessings. recited only at Minchah. Because it was in the afternoon - at the Av. This berachah is not recited until the time when Minchah is recited - that next morning. The Torah is taken from the aron One should refrain from eating meat, the Beit haMikdash was set afire [and kodesh and three people are called drinking wine, bathing, or cutting one’s The large tallit is not worn in the it continued to burn until the end of up. The reading is from the portion of hair until midday on the tenth of Av. morning. We do not put on tefillin for the tenth of Av]. Others say that the Vatchanan, beginning with the verse August 8, 2008 ~ crOWN heights Newspaper 11 Matters of Health

The RAMBAM Lifestyle us, maaminim bnei maaminim) You have to have a teacher. It was discovered that simple choices There is a range of changes you can By Yaakov Bam, Nutri- G-d. For it is impossible to understand about lifestyle can have a very power- make, based on your situation. You tion and Wellness and become knowledgeable in the wis- ful affect on health and well-being of have to be aware: It takes more work Consultant dom when one is hungry or unwell, or people. It has been proven though the to reverse illness than to do prevention. when one of his limbs hurts.” (Hilchos medical research that if a person gets Mitzvah goreres mitzvah (one step at Live Deos 3.3) enough rest, exercise, eats nutritionally the time). By improving Your Lifestyle balanced meals, has social support many you Will Feel Better,L ose Weight, and “A wise man eats only one dish or two, severe diseases: heart disease, diabetes, G ain Health. Kosher! eating only enough to sustain him. high blood pressure, high cholesterol, The Rambam: This is alluded to in King Shlomo’s To be continued arthritis, eder mahalah, etc… can often statement: “The righteous man eats “I can guarantee that anyone who be prevented/reversed. Yaakov Bam, MS, is a member of American to satisfy his soul.”(Proverbs 13:25) accustoms himself to these ways which Association of Nutritional Consultants. (Hilchos Deos 5.1) After reading all the above and studying we have discussed will not become He focuses on guiding and advising institu- Hilchos Deos you may still say: “Fine, I sick throughout his whole life, and will Overeating today will cause greater tions, families and private individuals in understand it intellectually. How could never need to take any medicines. His overeating tomorrow. implementing the RAMBAM Lifestyle. I implement it in my Life?” body will be perfect and healthy for his By improving your lifestyle you Will: How can we break this vicious circle? entire life....” Torah gives us an answer. have more energy everyday, get rid of bad Diets? Do Not work! cholesterol, constipation, normalize blood “Vnishmartem me’od l’nafshoseichem”- Mitzvah gereres Mitzvah pressure, boost your immune system and “But you should take great care for your It may bring only temporary weight loss Nothing can stand against your true metabolism, prevent heart disease, stroke, souls” (Devarim 4:15) to a select few. desire for change. and diabetes chas vsholom, etc… Yaakov Do you want to add years to your life? A human being can’t force him/herself can be reached at yaakov.bam@gmail. Implement personal accountability to starve all life. com or by phone, (347)564-2874. To Do you want to prevent/reverse heart (Heshbon Hanefesh). register for a free Health Lifestyle seminar, disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, Obesity surgery? You have to have community (family) please contact Yaakov Bam. high cholesterol, arthritis, etc…? Are there any side effects?! Is it 100 supporting your changes. Of course any person of sound mind percent guaranteed results? will answer YES to those questions. The answer is: learn and practice How do we achieve it? Rambam’s Hilhos Deos – Laws of Personality Development. I have old and forgotten news for you. The great Jewish Sage and Physician There are 5 key requirements derived - Rambam (Maimonides) gave as a from Rambam’s Hilhos Deos chapter prescription for all of the above. 4. And moreover, it is a Halachic obliga- 1. Requirement for a sufficient sleep. tion to comply with Rambam’s teach- Based on: “The day and night [together] ings codified in his Mishneh Torah are twenty-four hours long. It is suf- - Hilhos Deos-Laws of Personality ficient to sleep for a third of this, i.e. Development. eight hours...” (Hilchos Deos 4:4) Problem Analysis. 2. To exercise 3. To have a regular bowl The western countries where all kinds of movement 4. To eat proper food. 5 food are in abundance, USA specifically Prevent Overeating. and our Jewish community are in the Based on: “Whoever is idle and does not midst of an obesity epidemic. 66.3% exercise, or does not move his bowels of U.S. adults, age 20 years and over when he has the need or is constipated are overweight or obese. Millions of has hard bowels, even if he eats the Americans suffer from illnesses caused proper foods and takes care to follow by obesity. the rules of medicine will be full of pain • 13.5 million people have coronary for all his days and his strength will heart disease. fade away. Overeating is like poison to anyone’s body. It is the main source of • 1.5 million people suffer from a heart all illness. Most illnesses which afflict a attack in a given year. man are caused by harmful foods or by • 8 million people have adult-onset his filling his belly and overeating, even (non-insulin-dependent) diabetes. healthful foods. Solomon said in his wisdom, “Whoever guards his mouth • Etc… and his tongue, guards his soul from Medical science came to a conclu- distress”(Proverbs 21:23); i.e. “guards sion that overeating is an addiction. his mouth” from eating either harmful It has severe physical and spiritual foods or eating his fill “his tongue” from implications. speaking [about things] other than his needs.”(Hilchos Deos 4:15) As Rambam states: “A person should direct his heart and the totality of his Rambam with a power of the Torah behavior to one goal, becoming aware gave us his guaranty: “I can guarantee of G-d, blessed be He. … He should eat that anyone who accustoms himself to what is beneficial for the body, whether these ways which we have discussed will it is bitter or sweet, and he should not not become sick throughout his whole eat those things which are bad for the life, and will never need to take any body, even if they are sweet..” (Hilchos medicines. His body will be perfect and Deos 3:2) He adds, “…He should have healthy for his entire life....” (Hilchos the intent that his body be whole and Deos 4:20) strong, in order that his soul will be Today’s nutritional science confirms all upright so that [it will be able] to know of the above points. (Not a surprise for 12 CROWN HEIGHTS Newspaper ~August 8, 2008 Shleimus Haaretz

Even A Minority Which Is Vocal Benefits the Entire Generation The Most Important Thing account. In the episode of the spies, now on, and at least in some small In a letter dated 25S hevat 5741 (1981), Now Is A Bitter Protest the entire congregation, including ten measure. Perhaps more peple will the Rebbe writes more explicitly, that of the twelve spies, complained, that join in, to scream about the horrible protest has the power to effect change, If This Were A Sustained Pro- in the Land of Israel there are “large situation. And they will do it without and will ultimately succeed: test — It Would Succeed and fortified cities;” only the barest embarassment, and not from behind a Published and copyright © by Sichos in minority claimed the opposite — yet curtain. Especially those who reside In my opinion, the most crucial task English in the end, the entire nation became in Israel. One should bang his fists on facing us at this time is to protest aware that there were those who valued the table if necessary, because we must about the current security situation Together with his negation of the vari- the Land of Israel. remember that upon this issue rests the in the most stinging fashion possible ous arguments, the Rebbe reveals that very security of Israel. — against caving in to endless pres- the act of protest is effective, and “even As we have explained, the Rebbe estab- sures, which directly erode Israel’s a vocal minority benefits the entire The immediate result of such protest lishes the principle that one is obligated security. Another important point, generation.” will be a) the cessation of surrendering to resist and protest — though not in my opinion (perhaps because I am more lands which are controlled by On 13 Tammuz 5739 (1979), the Rebbe necessarily because it will help. In the overly optimistic), is that were the Israel, and b) making it impossible to explained, that there is a lesson to be end, says the Rebbe, it will help! protest to be non-stop and with the hide under the carpet (even if the mat- learned from the episode of the spies. greatest intensity — as the situation For example, in the address of 19 Kislev ter causes pain) the great damage and The lesson is that the opinion of an demands — it would eventually suc- 5743 (1982), the Rebbe pleaded: hardship which flowed from the sur- individual, or even a small minority who ceed, in the near future. rendering of oilfields to theE gyptians, speaks out — even though everyone My fervent hope is, that the words we and other such capitulations. else remains silent — is taken into have spoken will help, at least from

who called it the crowning glory and Aleph: the mystery of the resurfaced Rebbe Tznius protection of the Jewish woman and buttons. They were apparently made for The Aleph of Alufo Shel Olam – her home, often used the word. the N’shei Winter Convention in Tof the ruler of the world and Ahavas Shin Lamed -1970, and although many Pischu Li So instead of shunning it, perhaps it is Yisroel. details remain hazy, Mrs. Leah Klein By Mrs. M. Resnick our duty to return Tznius to the glori- The Aleph of Emuna - faith and Emes remembers wearing the button at the ous pedestal where it belongs. Perhaps Pischu li pesach k’chudo shel machat – truth. Our children are especially convention and recalls that Mrs. Altein it is our duty to revive it to its dignified va’ani eftach lochem pesach shel ulam. drawn to idealism. made an address. One line in particular status so that it can, once again, become - “Forge for Me an opening the size of a stands out in her memory. With shorter appealing to us and to our children. And the Emes of Yddishkeit is the needle,” the Medrash in Shir Hashirim and shorter skirts in fashion at the time ultimate form of idealism. So let’s offer Rabbah teaches of Hashem’s promise The same phenomenon, incidentally, (it was the time of the mini-skirts), Mrs them the Yiddishkeit they deserve, the to us, “and I will widen it to the size of has occurred with the word “Mashpia”. Rochel Altein asked her fellow Anash Yiddishkeit that they are yearning for an auditorium.” Some people have come to call it sisters, “Can you give an inch for the and not some contrived watered-down “mentor” or “life coach.” “Mashpia,” Abishter?” This pastS habbos, I was determinedly version. they believe, sounds too “nebby” for searching for opportunities to further Several people remember a booklet on some girls. I just found out that after Maariv, on publicize the Hasgachadike story of the Tznius that accompanied the buttons Motzei Shabbos, the video that was recently discovered Rebbe’s buttons But don’t we realize that perhaps it is the but we have not yet been able to locate shown in 770 was of the Rebbe speaking emblazoned with the slogan “Tznius: substitution of such words that has been one. We will keep you posted. on: Yes! The subject ofT znius. For 20 The Essence of the Jewish Woman.” the beginning of the downward moral minutes. Next week we will share some of your And just like the Medrash promises, spiral that we currently suffer from? suggestions as to “What to do with the Hashem widened my needle hole into, Don’t we realize that by accommodat- What a grand “Pischu Li” finale Rebbe’s Buttons?” not one, but two auditoriums. And I ing modern trends we just are appealing indeed! mean literally! to the plebeian sense in all of us and not Please keep those emails coming to: PS: to our Heilige Neshomos? [email protected] Over Shabbos I attended two classes. We are still in the process of solving One at the 770 Montgomery shul and Take for example something even out the other at 770. To the first one, the of the realm of Tznius: Casualness on lecturer came late, and to the second Shabbos. ʣ"ʱʡ one he simply never showed up. So Wonderful Chassidishe women walk there I was, at the right place at the right (their cholent-calories off) down time. I didn’t even have to initiate the Locksmith 24hours Eastern Parkway on Shabbos after- talk before the audiences invited me to noons with sneakers, all in the name speak and, of course, I gladly complied of comfort. But what about the Heilige  Summerspecialonkeyless(shabbas)locks and addressed the “auditoriums” Shabbos , Shabbos Hamalka - is it really Hashem provided for me. worth satisfying a desire for materialis- Both times, Boruch Hashem, the tic comfort at G-d’s expense. buttons and the potential messages Why not be idealistic? inherent in them generated great inter- est, discussion and brain-storming. Instead of “dumbing down” Judaism, why not challenge ourselves to rise to “How have we allowed Tznius to  the Mamleches Kohanim status – to become an ugly word?” I asked the audi- become the nation of Kohanim that ences. Even our Mechanchos, are mak-  MultiͲlockdoorsandkeys. we truly are? ing verbal kalestenics just to avoid the dreaded T-word. They’ll use “beauty” I often hear the opinion that most Fairprices. “pnimius” and “kedushah”, anything, people are not ready to hear such mes- just to avoid the word Tzinus. sages. I have good news! Both crowds MordechaiCadaner I spoke to seemed more than genuinely But why? interested and receptive for we live in The Midrash teaches thatH ashem used an age where people are searching for Formoreinfocall(347)Ͳ803Ͳ3965 the words “Heyi Tznua” - be modest meaning and truth. - with every limb that he formed of I was just reminded that the difference  Chava’s. Bilam’s curse-turned-to- between Golus and Geula is the letter blessing praises our Tznius. The Rebbe, August 8, 2008 ~ crOWN heights Newspaper 13 The Spanish Expulsion Tisha B’Av 1492

(Adapted from “Our People” vol. V1) of Torquemada's inquisitorship, over involuntary Christians and the Jewish issued a royal decree that all Jews, men, ten thousand persons were burnt at the community. They instructed them in women and children must leave the In 1483, the Inquisition which had stake and over ninety-seven thousand Jewish ritual, prayed with them in secret country four months hence and may thus far been limited to the southern were subjected to varying degrees of and quietly destroyed that which the take with them only such property provinces of Spain was extended to Ara- punishment. church wished to accomplish — rooting which they could carry. The Jews were gon as well. Thomas deT orquemada, a out all feelings for Judaism from their stunned by this terrible edict. For notorious Dominican monk, confessor Torquemada, the Grand Inquisitor, was souls. Consequently, steps were taken fifteen hundred years they had lived to the Queen, himself a descendant of not satisfied with the mere burning of to sever all ties between Jews and Chris- in Spain, contributing to its wealth Marranos, was appointed Inquisi¬tor Marranos. He soon rea¬lized that as tians, especially New Christians. To and culture. Furthermore, conditions General for all of Spain. Terrible as long as the crypto-Jews had contact with accomplish this most effectively, once being what they were in other countries the tribunal had been until now, as Jews, they would not renounce their and for all, Torquemada determined of Europe, there seemed no chance of numerous its victims and horrendous ancestral faith and their heresy could to have all Jews expelled en masse finding refuge elsewhere. its crimes against the accused, it was as a A delegation of influential Jews hurried joyful toy compared to the court to implore Ferdinand and to what it became in Isabella to rescind the inhumane edict. the hands of the sav- Abraham Senior, the secular head of the age being whose very Jewish community and Don Yitzchak name inspired terror in Abarbanel,8 financial advisor to the the hearts of his hear- royal court and Rabbinical scholar, ers. His name soon made an eloquent plea to avert the became a symbol of decree. Abarbanel offered a huge sum unspeakable torture. of money into the treasury in lieu of the banishment. As Queen Isabella was Of noble lineage, wavering because of the force of their Thomas de Torque- arguments and Ferdinand was ready to mada entered the yield because of the size of the bribe, the Dominican order at Grand Inquisitor Torquemada burst age fourteen and with into the room holding aloft a cross and time was appointed exclaimed, "Judas sold his savior for head of a monastary in thirty pieces of silver, you would sell Segovia. His religious him for thirty thousand!" The scene zeal and sharp mind made an awe¬some impression upon soon enabled him to the fanatically pious queen and the pleas reach a pre¬eminent of the delegates were uncompromis- position in the church ingly rejected. The edict remained in hierarchy, and he force; any Jew who would remain in became the confessor Spain after the specified date would of Isabella and after be put to death unless he submitted to her marriage, to Ferdi¬nand, exerting not be extirpated from the land. It was from the country. In March of 1492, baptism. great influence over them. The fanatical known that Jews, having compassion for the royal pair finally acquiesced to the piety of the queen and the avarice of their unfortu¬nate brethren, strove to urgings of Torqu¬emada that Spain As noted, the Jews were permitted to the king to seize the confiscated wealth keep a close connection between these must be free of the Jewish infidels. They take with them only those possessions of the numerous and prosperous con- which they could carry, with the excep- versos made it possible for Torquemada Edict of Expulsion Alhambra decree tion of gold or silver; in other words to expand the instrument of torture — virtually nothing. So, the beautiful and death which had been given into homes and mansions, the flour¬ishing his hands at age sixty-three until all, fields and vineyards, were bartered including the pope, were powerless for trifles or simply, abandoned to be before this monster. confiscated by the crown. The Jews accepted their fate with resignation, Torquemada drew up a "Constitution of putting their trust in G-d and strength- the Inqui¬sition" for the guidance of the ening each other to remain staunch in judges of these tribunals which was the their faith. Very few succumbed to the most malicious set of rules fashioned by urgings of the Dominican preachers the most deamonic human mind until to convert to Christianity in order to the edicts of the bestial Nazis in our escape exile. Almost the entire Jewish time. It provided a period of thirty days population of the Spanish provinces, for those accused to confess publicly approximately three hundred thousand and be punished accord¬ing to the people, preferred to sacrifice all their severity of their offenses.I f a suspected worldly goods and physical comforts Marrano could not be convicted for for the sake of the sanctifica¬tion of lack of any evidence or stead-fastly G-d's holy Name. Among the few who refused to confess, frightful torture was converted was the aforementioned inflicted upon the innocent victim until Abraham Senior and his family, who he confessed to whatever the inquisitors did so under threat by the queen to wanted him to admit. Often, in order persecute the departing Jews even more to save himself from further agony, the if he did not submit to baptism. wretched Marrano would implicate others in his "crimes." Every trial thus The king and queen also attempted to produced an ever-increasing number of force Don Yitzchak Abarbanel, their victims to the "holy tribunal." All were financial advisor and his son Judah, powerless before the bloody henchmen their personal physician, to remain in of Torquemada; no one was sure of his Spain by kidnapping the latter's son. own life. And the arrests, denunciations, But Judah discovered the scheme and ficticious trials, con¬fiscation of prop- hur¬riedly sent the child to Portugal erty, torture, burning alive continued with his nurse, to be reunited later. unabated. Before the end of the fifteenth Tragically, father and son were never century, there were nearly a dozen Continued on page 15 tribunals in Spain. In the eighteen years 14 CROWN HEIGHTS Newspaper ~August 8, 2008 Tammuz Yahrzeiten

This week we continue with theY ahrzeiten of people who lived in our shechuna. We are also including the Yahrzeiten of Shluchim. In mentioning them we A Mashpia humility. come to “v’Hachai yiten el Libo”. We learn from their lives, lessons that we can A potential Mashpia can ask themselves, incorporate into our own. This column includes the Yahrzeiten from the 12th By Rabbi Shea Hecht “What happens if someone wants me of Av through the 12th of Av. The respective resting places of the individuals to be their Mashpia and I really don’t noted in this column are near the holy Ohel, unless otherwise specified. In preparation for Gimmel Tam- feel I’m worthy or feel that I can’t do it? muz, NCFJE hung up posters that from a Russian foster home when he More so, what if the Mushpah chooses Men stressed the importance of choosing was prevented from keeping Mitzvos. me, but I feel they won’t listen; or I feel 8th of Av a Mashpia. As bochur, despite many obstacles, he that I don’t have what it takes?” Horav Hachossid traveled to the Rebbe and remained Soon after the posters were up, I was If this is the case then it’s our respon- Hatomim Reb there for ten years. He was a unique approached by a young man who sibility to take that person by the hand Yosef Yitzchok mekushar in that he never asked the complimented me on them. Hecsaid and help them find someone else. I, Deitsch Rebbe for Brochos or help with his that they made an impression on him too, when approached to be Mashpia, physical needs. He was a mod- and that he was inspired to find a The son ofH orav many times had hesitations, but in the est and genuine person, and Mashpia. Hachossid Hato- end I found that it worked out and I a great host to many guests. mim Reb Sholom He then made it a point to go to some- grew from it. He was born in 1936 on Yshaya, he was one who he felt was a potential Mashpia the 24th of Tishrei in One other point about being a Mash- a Chassidishe Yid, and a great baal and the man declined the honor. He Svuk, bordering Poland pia is that once the responsibility is Tzedoko and baal chesed, who then went to a second person and that and Russia, and was accepted Mashpiim have to be proactive helped many in need, and whose man also declined. nifter in 2002. His as well as reactive. A Mashpia should home was open to all. He was resting place is on Har When another person came over to me not only wait for their Mushpah to talk among the founders of Machon Hazeisim. with a similar comment, I realized that to them, but at times they have to be the Alte in Tzfas and contrib- many potential Mashpiim simply aren’t one reach out. uted enormously to Tiferes Women willing to accept their responsibility. Zkeinim, which organizes 12th of Av Mashpiim are Shluchim of the Rebbe as shiurim for retirees (See Our Someone who comes over to you with a they are using the system that the Rebbe Heroes column). Mrs. Etya Krinsky request for you to be their Mashpia sees set up they therefore have the Rebbe’s something in you that they feel will help Brachah in their job. We invoke Reb- 13th of Av The daughter of Horav them. I know that being a Mashpia is bishe Koichos and Brochos in carrying Hachossid Reb Avrohom Dovid Horav Hachossid an awesome obligation, but people have out our responsibility as Mashpiah. Shmarya, she was nifter in 1967 in Hatomim Reb to accept the job. If someone has come Boston. May we be zoicheh to connect to Yaakov Noach to ask we should accept the job because the Rebbe and merit to give over the Shtrasberg We should speedily witness “The ones who of Ahavas Yisrael and simply because Rebbe’s teachings. dwell in the dust will awaken and rejoice” of the Hashagacha Pratis factor – that The son ofH orav with all the above mentioned individuals we were asked and not someone else. Rabbi Hecht, is chairman of the board of the Hachossid Reb amongst them. Additionally, we should keep in mind National Committee for the Furtherance of Sholom, he was that being a Mashpia gives us the benefit Jewish Education (NCFJE), continuing the provided a chas- Dear Readers: of self growth. tradition of social services management and sidishe model to Anyone who would like to have their outreach that began with his father, the Rabbi learn from. His mother carried him as relatives mentioned in the yahrzeit column Some people think that they are not Jacob J. Hecht A’H. He is a Rabbi and activist a child to study Torah in a basement should email the name, father’s name, date good enough for the job of Mashpia. in the Jewish community, focusing on family cheder because his shoes had been used of the ptira and some details to chp5768@ Everyone can do it regardless of who crisis intervention, guiding and advising to purchase medicines. He escaped gmail.com. A picture may be included. they are and where they are holding troubled youth and their families, marriage in their own life. Humility is a good counseling, and drugs and cults counseling thing, but someone who thinks they בס”ד and consultations. He can be reached at are not good enough to be there for [email protected]. another person in need has misplaced Great news!!! ChabadWeekly.com Great news!!! ‘Chabad Weekly’ is an online listing of - Full page ads, Events, ATTENTION Advertisements, Jobs, Sales, Housing and much more. The Food Stamps program has waived The concept of ‘Chabad Weekly’ was taken from Craigslist, where the $2000 Resource level requirement you post your information free, and re-enter your information every seven days. in order to be eligible for Food Stamps. Please note that you still have to be in- Advantages: come eligible and a citizen in order to be 1) Text and images are free. 2) Your information will stay on site for seven days. eligble. 3) Post it yourself – with no middleman. 4) Your information is neatly posted (header in center, and details/images to the right). It is very important that you take the 5) Site could be sorted in many ways, to make your search name of the person you talk to when easier and faster. you call any government agency. It is 6) ‘Full page’ section, where you can upload your image or document to be displayed on a full page (useful for posting good practice when you call any com- yers, brochures etc). Full page section is not free. pany but when you call an agency it could make all the difference to your Sponsored by: UnionApartment.com. case. Where you will nd our accommodations comfortable and pleasant. Don't forget take a name!! August 8, 2008 ~ crOWN heights Newspaper 15 Rebbe Story The largest single group of exiles, about “From Simchas Torah you must take Spain one hundred thousand, set out for the Continued from Page 13 geographically close-by and culturally simcha for the entire year” to see each other again. similar country of Portugal. The king “When one tells a story about his Rebbe he connects to the deeds of the Rebbe” of that realm, motivated by avarice, By August 2, 1492, which coincided (Sichos 1941 pg. 68) allowed those who could afford to with the Ninth of Av, the day on which pay a considerable sum to settle there both the First and Second Temples Hachossid Reb Reuven Dunin [The Rebbe nodded and Reb Dunin permanently. He permitted the poorer in Jerusalem had been destroyed, the remained silent, though he had an Jews to remain in his domain for the (Adapted from the series www.inspirin- anniversary of many other calamitous additional question]: The Rebbe:W hy temporary period of eight months. gageneration.com) events in Jewish history, every single should you split hairs and search? The When this period elapsed, not enough unbaptized Jewish man, woman and By: Rabbi Michoel Seligson Rebbe grasped his lapel and said: The ships were provided for the exiles, and child had been turned out of Spain. thoughts that come from the yetzer all who remained behind were sold Rabbi Reuven Dunin of Israel was with The largest group of exiles, about one – you have to grab [the yetzer] by the into slavery. his entire Neshama, an ardent mekushar hundred thousand persons, crossed sleeve and toss him out, and do what you to the Rebbe, and merited many kiru- the frontier to find temporary refuge In 1495, King Manuel I ascended the have to do. Do not get into arguments vim. While driving a tractor on a farm in Portugal. Some found refuge in the Portuguese throne. He desired to with the yetzer; turn your thoughts in Haifa, he kingdom of Navarre until their expul- marry the daughter of Ferdinand and towards Divrei involved him- sion in 1498; others boarded ships Isabella, but the Catholic sovereigns Torah, to what self in spread- headed for Turkey, North Africa or would consent to the match only on is necessary. ing the Rebbe’s the neighboring Naples. Their journey condition that the country was "puri- teachings and If I thought you was fraught with great danger and fied" of all Jews. In 1496, an edict was with his unique had something undescribable suffering; shipmasters issued giving the Jews one year in which Ahavas Yisroel to correct I extorted enormous sums for their to make their preparations to leave the and his particu- wouldn’t keep passage, then robbed and beat them country. Before the deadline, however, lar Farbrengen it to myself, and and tossed them overboard or sold the crafty king, fearful of the economic style touched if I don’t tell them as slaves; they were unable to loss to his realm if the wise, industrious many hearts you, why must find welcoming ports of entry where Jews were permitted to depart, resorted and successfully you search? If I they would be permitted to land and to a treacherous ploy to keep them in brought many wasn’t satisfied, remain as citizens; incredibly, some Portugal. All children under the age Yidden closer I wouldn’t say all were forced to convert in order to save of twenty-five were taken from their to Yiddishkeit. this to you.\ their lives; thousands suffered starva- parents and baptized; thus the parents He was born tion, pestilence and death. would have no choice but to remain and From Simchas in 1934 on the become Christians themselves. Yet, Torah you must Again the hand of G-d which deter- 17th of Teves in most still insisted on leaving the coun- take simcha for mines the destiny of His people was evi- Haifa and was try, so Manuel placed hindrances in the entire year, dent even in this nifter on the the way of and not even a epic tragedy of 11th of Av in their depar- week has gone Jewish history. 2002. tures and by since Simchas On the very day detained Reb Reuven merited many exceptional Torah and already ... You have to learn that the unfor- them Yechidusen with the Rebbe. One of the from what I do. tunate victims beyond the Yechidusen took place in late 1960, on of the bigoted Reb Dunin: I saw the Rebbe begin deadline. the 26th of Tishrei 5721. Reb Reuven and fanatical to cry. A t t h a t later recalled. Ferdinand and point, he The Rebbe: That is not a contradiction. Isa¬bella were “After Maariv, a few minutes past seven, declared all The tears are because we are inG olus. expelled from I had a yechidus with the Rebbe. I the remain- At the same time that there are tears Spain, a man realized the Rebbe reads minds. I felt ing Jews his stemming from one side of the heart, named Christo- The Toledo Synagogue an inner urge to be near him and alone slaves and there is also “simcha planted on the pher Columbus with him. When the Rebbe entered his forcibly baptized them en masse. other side of the heart.” But the actual sailed from that very country to discover room, he left the door unlocked.I used deed must be with simcha. a New World. His expeditions were These forced converts were like the the opportunity to knock lightly on the financed by a loan from a man of Jewish Marranos of Spain — holding fast to door and I heard the Rebbe answer in I will meditate on this and tell you, extraction and from money derived the faith and traditions of Juda¬ism Yiddish, “yeh” (yes), and I entered. but even until then you should be from the confiscation of the property while seeming to practice Christianity, The Rebbe was holding a bundle of b’simcha. of Spanish Jewish exiles; some of his all the while seeking every opportunity letters.” The Rebbe took out aT anya, opened it sailors were Marranos fleeing from the to escape the country. As in Spain, the The Rebbe asked me: What is it Reb to page 79, and pointed to the words: terrors of the Inquisition. According to Neo-Christians found their way into Reuven? some historians Colum¬bus himself high positions of power and prestige, “This, then, should be one’s lifelong was also a Marrano. Ultimately the dis- again arousing popular resentment Reb Dunin: How do I know whether I aim in the service of G‑d with great covery made by his expedition served against themselves. Riots broke out am fulfilling the Rebbe’s will? joy — the joy of the soul upon leaving as a haven for the descend¬ents of the in 1506 and thousands were killed. the loathsome body, and returning, The Rebbe: If you act in accordance unfortunate victims of the expulsion Eventually pressure by the jealous during one’s study of the Torah and with Shulchan Aruch, then you know from Spain. masses to check the advancement of service of G‑d through prayer, to “her you are acting in accordance with my the New Christians led, in 1531, to the father’s house as in her youth,” i.e., to With the merciless banishment of three will. For if not, that means there are introduction of the Inquisi¬tion into the unity with G‑d that it enjoyed before hundred thousand learned, educated, doubts about whether I fulfillS hulchan Portugal. Soon only a small group of it descended into the body.” cultured and industrious citi¬zens, Aruch. Marranos remained in the country. Spain achieved the aim of a uniformity The Rebbe emphasized that sadness Thus the prosperous Jewish communi- Reb Dunin: How can there be doubts as of religion within its borders. But with is because of the distance that exists ties of the Pyrenean Peninsula now to whether the Rebbe fulfillsS hulchan the loss of a group of subjects who had between the body and its enlivening completely disappeared. The remains Aruch? added a great deal to the development of soul. And he pointed to the words on of the Spanish Jews, or Sephardim, the resources of the country, the great- The Rebbe: If you do not fulfill Shul- page 80: were scattered over Europe, Asia, ness of Spain began to diminish and chan Aruch, G-d forbid, then it appears and Africa; ultimately many found “And likewise add a greater measure it declined as a European power. The as though it is suspected that I do not refuge in the New World, carrying with of light and joy to the joy of his soul coun¬try paid dearly for centuries for keep Shulchan Aruch. them the torch of Torah to these new brought on by the teshuvah”, and the the sufferings it had inflicted upon the settlements. Reb Dunin: Does one nevertheless still Rebbe referred to the concepts that unfortunate Jews, and never regained belong to the Rebbe? bring about joy which are discussed at its former greatness. the end of chapter 33. Escape to Portugal 16 CROWN HEIGHTS Newspaper ~August 8, 2008

ʣʿʱʡ The National Committee for Furtherance of Jewish Education and Camp Emunah – Bnos Yaakov Yehuda, respectfully announce

- In observance of the 18th Yahrzeit of ʡʠ-ʭʧʰʮ ʥʿʨ - ʬʿʦ ʲʹʥʤʩ ʯʡ ʤʣʥʤʩ ʡʷʲʩ ʾʸ ʧʿʤʸʤ Rabbi Yaakov Yehuda Hecht, of blessed memory Please join us on Thursday, August 14, 2008 at Ohel Chabad Lubavitch 226-20 Francis Lewis Blvd., Cambria Heights, NY 11411 for prayers at the Ohel and the graveside of Rabbi Jacob J. Hecht Mincha at 6:45PM - Siyum at 7:00PM Followed by special ceremony and memorial meal. Request for special prayers: Call (718) 735-0200 or Fax (718) 735-4455 or E-mail: [email protected] ------Initiation ceremony of writing a Sefer Torah in memory of Rabbi Jacob J. Hecht on Sunday, August 17, 2008 at 12:00 Noon The writing of the opening lines of the new Sefer Torah will take place ʤʿʲʡ in the Ohel Sara Synagogue of the Bais Menachem Mendel

Followed by special presentation and collation at Camp Emunah - Bnos Yaakov Yehuda - Junior Division Greenfield Park, NY, 12435 Make a donation in his memory to: Rabbi Jacob J. Hecht Memorial Fund 824 Eastern Parkway, Brooklyn, NY 11213 Website: www.ncfje.org

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