B”H

THEWEEKLY MAGAZINE SHUL

SPONSORED BY MR. & MRS. MARTIN (OBM) AND ETHEL SIROTKIN & DR. & MRS. SHMUEL AND EVELYN KATZ

SHABBOS PARSHAS TOLDOS 4-5 NOVEMBER 20 - 21 CANDLE LIGHTING: 5:12 PM SHABBOS ENDS: 6:06 PM

The Shul - Lubavitch - An institution of The Lubavitcher , Menachem M. Schneerson (May his merit shield us) Over Thirty five Years of Serving the Communities of Bal Harbour, Bay Harbor Islands, Indian Creek and Surfside 9540 Collins Avenue, Surfside, Fl 33154 Tel: 305.868.1411 Fax: 305.861.2426 www.TheShul.org Email: [email protected] www.theshulpreschool.org www.cyscollege.org THE SHUL WEEKLY MAGAZINE EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR EVERY DAY OF THE WEEK

NACHAS AT A GLANCE NACHAS AT A GLANCE CONTENTS THE SHUL HEBREW SCHOOL ONLINE CLASSES ARE INTERACTIVE, Weekly Message: 3 EXCITING AND WELL ATTENDED! Thoughts on the Parsha - Sholom D. Lipskar

Celebrating Shabbos: 4 - 5 Schedules, classes, articles & more... Everything you need for an “Over the Top” Shabbos experience

Community Happenings: 6 -7 Sharing with your Shul Family

A Time to Pray: 8 Check out all the davening schedules and locations throughout the week

Daily Study: 9 A complete guide to all classes and courses ofered at The Shul

Inspiration, Insights & Ideas: 10 - 20 Bringing lessons to LIFE

Get The Picture 21 - 22 The full scoop on all the great events around town

In a Woman’s World 23 Issues of relevance to the Jewish woman

French Connection 24 Reflexions sur la Paracha

Latin Link 25 Reflexion Semanal

Numbers To Know 26 Contacts at The Shul

Get The Picture 27 - 28 The full scoop on all the great events around town THOUGHTS ON THE PARSHA FROM RABBI SHABBOS PARSHAS TOLDOS

he Alter Rebbe, intent by his brother’s son, having to leave his beloved Rabbi Shneor home and then being fooled in his marriage by his Zalman, founder of treacherous father-in-law. TChabad Chassidus, whose most important day of the Yet it is this tortured that begets the 12 tribes birth of Chabad is on the and becomes the patriarch of the Jewish people, even 19th of this month when having been given the name “Israel”. he was emancipated from capital punishment We Jewish people utilize challenges and difficulties imprisonment stated, “A to live higher and smarter. We are imbedded with the person must live with the genetic capacity to withstand the strongest storms time”. His senior closest and the worst conditions and come out successful and Chassidim interpreted fortunate. Utilizing the Torah’s messages to understand that to mean we must live with the message of the and live our lives today gives us an immense head-start Torah portion of the week. with an optimism that always brings the best results.

Our conditions today are quite troubling as the Jewish Have a great Shabbos and a wonderful week. world is confronted with a barrage of anti-Semitic tropes and incidents that we have not experienced globally since the Holocaust. Israel, with all its successes and contributions to society in so many areas including technology, health, science and Rabbi Sholom Lipskar economic advancement, continues to be vilified by the United Nations and so many proponents of the BDS movement, including many young college-age . It seems like history repeats itself consistently, giving us challenges that are unique to any people in the world.

The why has many responses. Primarily, it is because we are so outstanding, and the one standing at the top of the mountain becomes the easiest target for all those who are envious and filled with a fundamental hate that transcends reason.

But what gives us the capacity and the power to overcome these challenges and sustain our continued eternal upward trajectory, never succumbing to negative forces and hurdles?

In this week’s Torah portion, we read about our father Jacob whose life is filled with difficulties and challenges, beginning from his birth when his brother wrestles and struggles with him in the womb, and then having to retain his rightful birthright having fairly purchased it from his brother Eisav, being pursued with murderous

3 CELEBRATING SHABBOS WITH OUR YOUTH EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR AN “OVER THE TOP” SHABBOS EXPERIENCE

Eruv Information

SHABBOS SCHEDULE We would like to emphasize that every Erev Shabbos, individuals should call the Hotline Candle lighting 5:12 p.m. to make sure that the Eruv is operational. The number to call is 305- 866-ERUV (3788). Mincha / Kabalas Shabbos 5:15 p.m. The Eruv message is recorded approximately two hours prior to candle lighting. Surfside: The Eruv in Shacharis 1st Minyan 8:30 a.m. Surfside now includes the walking paths along the Shacharis 2nd Minyan 10:30 a.m. beach. Pushing strollers and carrying is permitted on the paths, but not beyond the path or onto the beach. Mincha 5:15 p.m. Shabbos Ends Bal Harbour: The Eruv in Bal Harbour included the inner (western) walking path only. The pier at / Ma’ariv & Havdalah 6:06 p.m. Haulover Cut is not included.

To pay your annual dues visit: www.miamibeacheruv.com

HALACHIC TIMES BASED ON TIMES FOR NOVEMBER 25

Alot Hashachar / Dawn 5:30 am Earliest Talit & Tefllin 6:02 am Netz Hachamah / Sunrise 6:46 am (Earliest Amidah) Latest Shema 9:25 am Zman Tfllah 10:19 am Chatzot / Midday 12:07 pm Earliest Mincha 12:35 pm Plag HaMincha 4:25 pm Shekiah / Sunset 5:29 pm (Preferable latest time for Mincha) Tzeit Hakochavim / Nightfall 5:54 pm To our beloved Soldiers in the Israeli Defense (Earliest preferable Ma’ariv) Forces, courageously protecting and defending Eretz Yisroel. We pray for you and all of Times taken from www.chabad.org the soldiers safety and well being daily. Please note that during the week times may Menachem Mendel ben Chaya Leah Vary by a minute or two. Menachem Mendel ben Aurit Eden Chana bat Karine Cecile 4 PARSHA IN PICTURES Test your PARSHA knowledge. Can you tell the story using the pictures below

5 COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS SHARING WITH YOUR SHUL FAMILY

BIRTHDAYS YAHRTZEITS 5 Kislev Ms. Danielle Carmi 5 Kislev Levi Yitzchak ben Nachum obm 5 Kislev Dr. Brian Dooreck Father of Mrs. Rose Schreiber 5 Kislev Mr. Berel Edelkopf 5 Kislev Sara obm 5 Kislev Mr. Dovid Mordechai Gilinski Mother of Mrs. Hana Salama 5 Kislev Mr. Gabe Plotkin 5 Kislev Tamara Matlas bas Moshe obm 6 Kislev Mr. Julian Ohayon Sister-in-law of Mrs. Estela Berry 6 Kislev Mr. Jacob Stein 6 Kislev Menachem Mendal Ben Yehudah obm 7 Kislev Mr. Asher Matiah Bublick Grandfather of Mrs. Roslyn Jafe 7 Kislev Mr. Shimon Eckstein 6 Kislev Rona bas Shlomo Ha Levi obm 7 Kislev Mrs. Nily Falic Mother of Mrs. Joni Blachar 7 Kislev Mrs. Orit Osman 6 Kislev Shulem Aaron ben Yosef Mordechai obm 7 Kislev Ms. Rina Chaya Miriam Plutno Husband of Mrs. Rosita Retelny 7 Kislev Mr. Elijah Salver 6 Kislev Yafa Milatin obm 8 Kislev Ms. Daniela Yocheved Ben-Arie Grandmother of Mrs. Orly Alexander 8 Kislev Ms. Raquel Wildes 6 Kislev Rav David obm 9 Kislev Mr. Dovi Wachtel Father of Ms. Liv-Tiferet De Vitton 9 Kislev Mrs. Devorah Leah Andrusier 6 Kislev Freidel bas Yoshuah obm 9 Kislev Dr. Bernard Baumel Mother of Ms. Barbara Ann Taylor 9 Kislev Ms. Tehila Moore 6 Kislev Basha bas Menashe obm 9 Kislev Ms. Vicki Rachel Moteles Mother of Mrs. Miriam Schwartz Wiener 9 Kislev Mrs. Cynthia Stein 7 Kislev Sara obm 10 Kislev Mr. Arie Abraham Mother of Mr. Mario Laufer 10 Kislev Mr. Joel Cohen 7 Kislev Sarah bas Yair obm 10 Kislev Ms. Tziporah Gheblikian Mother of Mrs. Peggy Sreter 10 Kislev Mrs. Nechama Faigie Stern 8 Kislev Shlomo ben Yosef obm 11 Kislev Mr. Jonathan Attias Grandfather of Mrs. Ruth Tzubeli Meloul 11 Kislev Mr. Arthur M. Gellman 8 Kislev Malka bas Yosef obm 11 Kislev Ms. Lauren Kaufman Mother of Mr. Jerrod M. Levine 11 Kislev Mr. Tzvi Lipman 8 Kislev Uziyahu Eliyahu obm 11 Kislev Mr. Yosie Lipskar Father of Mr. Betzalel Camissar 11 Kislev Mr. Richard Moore 8 Kislev Reb Hersh Yitzchok obm 11 Kislev Mrs. Dinah Shapiro Husband of Dr. Bracha Reich 11 Kislev Ms. Natalie Speyer 9 Kislev Sholom Aharon obm 11 Kislev Ms. Miriam Lea Sussman Father of Mr. Eli Levitin 9 Kislev Bezalel Binyamin ben Eliezer Pesach obm KID’S BIRTHDAYS Son of Mr. & Mrs. Lazer Milstein 5 Kislev Lou Bsiri 9 Kislev Chaya bas Mordecai obm 5 Kislev Yankel Bsiri Mother-in-law of Mrs. Ethel Meril Sirotkin 5 Kislev Ariela Chaya Jaimovich 9 Kislev Ita bas Aron obm 6 Kislev David Lew Mother of Mrs. Cipora Fraiman 7 Kislev Adina Mangami 9 Kislev Rachel bas Baruch obm 8 Kislev Rayna Strassberg Mother of Mrs. Chana Weinbaum 9 Kislev Chana Necha Diamont 10 Kislev Golda bas Binyamin Yosef obm 9 Kislev Yona Amelie Groisman Aunt of Mr. Harold Tripp 9 Kislev Chaya Necha Schottenstein 11 Kislev Moshe Nysen Eltes obm 10 Kislev Eva Blumstein Son of Ms. Vivian Naimer 10 Kislev Nina Schottenstein 11 Kislev Hanania bar Mazaltov Bouhadana obm 11 Kislev Batya Braindyl Tevardovitz Brother of Mr. Isaie Bouhadana 11 Kislev Yehuda ben Shlomo obm Brother of Mrs. Dana Werner

6 COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS SHARING WITH YOUR SHUL FAMILY

KISLEV LIGHT & POWER THANKS TO OUR DONORS Light & Power and Wine for Kiddush & Havdalah We sincerely thank the following members and supporters of The Shul for the month of Kislev is Kindly Sponsored for donations received between 11/10/20 and 11/16/20 in honor of We apologize for any errors or omissions that we may have made. In honor of our beautiful children Mr. & Mrs. Jackie Abraham Mr. & Mrs. Joseph Melohn Mr. Joseph Ammar Dr. & Mrs. Gene Moteles Shana, Goldie, Malkie and Shmulie Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Amram Mr. & Mrs. Charles Ness Mr. & Mrs. Gideon Azari Mr. Reffael Nir Keep shining your light upon others. Mr. & Mrs. Menahem Banon Mrs. Ariana Rapaporte Dr. & Mrs. Jonah Bardos Ms. Vivi Rubinstein Mr. & Mrs. Doron Barnes Mr. & Mrs. Jason Saka We love you! Mr. & Mrs. David Benichou Mr. & Mrs. David Meir Sasson Matis and Ronit Blisko Mr. & Mrs. Isaie Bouhadana Mr. & Mrs. Mark Schnapp Mr. & Mrs. Levi Boymelgreen Rabbi & Mrs. Moshe “Those who establish for prayer and those who come there to pray, Dr. & Mrs. Stephen Brenner Schneider those who provide lights for illumination, wine and grape juice for kiddush Mr. & Mrs. Laszlo Brett Mr. & Mrs. Shea Schneider and havdalah, food for the wayfarers and charity for the needy, and all those Mr. & Mrs. Betzalel Camissar Mrs. Rose Schreiber who occupy themselves faithfully with communal affairs - may The Holy One, Mr. Raul Chami Mr. & Mrs. David Schwartz Mr. & Mrs. Allen Davoudpour Mr. & Mrs. Meyer Seewald blessed be He, give them their reward, remove them from all sicknesses, heal Dr. & Mrs. Brian Dooreck Mr. & Mrs. Zalman Shapiro their entire body, pardon all their sins, and send blessing and success to all Mr. Ariel Galapo Mr. & Mrs. Bentzy Shemtov their endeavors, together with all Israel their brethren; and let us say Amen.” Mr. Arturo Garcia Mr. & Mrs. Effi Shmuel Mr. & Mrs. Abi Goldshtein Mr. Zach Sohn REFUAH SHLEIMAH Mr. & Mrs. Moshe Goldshtein Mr. & Mrs. Yossi Sokol If you have a health update on anyone listed please contact The Shul. We would like to Mr. & Mrs. Levi Green Mr. & Mrs. Max Spielberg keep the listing current and remove names of people who have recovered. Mr. & Mrs. Josh Greisman Mr. & Mrs. Eric Stein Mr. & Mrs. Sergio Gurvitsch Rabbi & Mrs. Yossi Stern MEN WOMEN Dr. & Mrs. Nathan Katz Mr. & Mrs. Yaakov Saidoff Yehonatan HaLevi ben Malka Esther Yocheved bas Raizel Mr. & Mrs. Aviv Kordich Mr. & Mrs. Alex Tauber Eliezer ben Sarah Bracha David Labkowski PA Mr. & Mrs. David Wolf Aharon ben Beylah Shima Leah bas Gittel Mr. & Mrs. Mendi Labkowski Rabbi & Mrs. Aryeh Wuensch Meyer Eliezer ben Sarah Sarah Libke bas Baile Mr. & Mrs. Gregory Levine Mr. Jose Yankelevitch Menachem Mendel ben Sara Chana Bayla bas Masha Mr. & Mrs. Yosie Lipskar Mr. & Mrs. Sergio Zelcer Yehoshua ben Tamara Rina Chaya Miriam bas Leah Mr. & Mrs. William Lustgarten Mr. & Mrs. Adam Ziefer Isaac Gilbert ben Nelly Esther Bracha Mr. & Mrs. Alexander Matz Bentzion ben Nomi Rachel Genya Bailah bat Giete Sura Margalite Sonia Simcha bat Sultana Shlomo Yaakov ben Chaya Tzipora Pnina bas Slava MAZAL TOV Sarah Rochel Feige bas Krandel Mazal Tov to Mr. & Mrs. Moishe and Batsheva Goldshtein Chaim Zelig Ben Eidel Chaya Miriam Yehudit bat on the birth of a daughter. May they raise her to Torah, Ari ben Na’ama Chava Chupah and Ma’asim Tovim and have much nachas from her. Tzvi Yitzchak ben Chaya Clara bat Corina Mazal tov also to the Grandparents, Mr. & Mrs. Yankie and Chaim Tzvi Hirsch ben Guttel Rivka bat Shoshana Devorah Leah Andrusier, to the Great Grandparents, Rabbi & Miriam bat Risha Raizel Rebbetzin Sholom and Chani Lipskar and to the Great Great Grandmother, Mrs. Rochel Lipskar.

Mazal Tov to Mr. & Mrs. Mendy and Sara Kurant on the birth of a son. May they raise him to Torah, Chupah and Ma’asim ANNIVERSARIES Tovim and have much nachas from him. Mr. & Mrs. Yaakov and Miriam Pollak Mr. & Mrs. Simcha and Shoshana Leah Applegrad Mazal Tov to Mr. & Mrs. Howard and Tamar Levene on the birth of a daughter - Maytal Chaya. May they raise her to Torah, Mr. & Mrs. Alberto and Corinne Camhi Chupah and Ma’asim Tovim and have much nachas from her.

7 ALL THINGS SEPHARDIC SHABBAT WEEKDAY SCHEDULE

SCHEDULE SHACHARIT MON - FRI: KARBONOT - 7:45AM HODU 8:00AM SHACHARIT SUN KARBONOT - 8:15AM HODU 8:30AM MINCHA / ARVIT SUN - THURS: 5:10 PM FRIDAY NIGHT, NOV 20 MINCHA / ARVIT FRIDAY 5:00 PM • MINCHA/ARVIT: 5:00 PM ARVIT 2ND MINYAN 9:00 PM • CANDLE LIGHTING: 5:11 PM DAILY: DAF YOMI () @7AM DAILY:CHOCK LE'ISRAEL AFTER SHACHARIT. • SHKIAH (SUNSET): 5:30 PM MONDAY 5:45 PM - TEENS AGES 14 -17 8:00 PM - HALACHA IN HEBREW SHABBAT, NOV 7 HALACHA IN HEBREW • SHACHARIT: 9:00 AM TUESDAY • NETZ HACHAMA: 6:43 AM 8:00 PM - TOMER DEVORAH LEARNING • ZMAN KERIAT SHEMA: 8:49 AM WEDNESDAY • CLASS BY RABBI MASSRI: 4:40 PM 8:00 PM - PIRKEI AVOT IN SPANISH • MINCHA/ARVIT: 5:10 PM THURSDAY • SHKIAH (SUNSET): 5:29 PM 8:00 PM - INSIGHTS ON THE PARASHA MINCHA FOLLOWED BY ARVIT @5:25 PM • SHABBAT ENDS: 6:07 PM • RABENU TAM: 6:42 PM WEDNESDAY AND THURSDAY CLASSES ARE AVAILABLE ON ZOOM MEETING ID: 897 051 8825

MESSAGE FROM RABBI MASSRI

This is the story of Isaac, son of Abraham. Abraham begat a father to his sons. Hashem purposely made the miracle that Isaac.” (Genesis 25:19) Isaac’s face was identical to Abraham’s face to show to the clowns of any generation that we are connected to our fathers. ”Why does the Torah mention here, in the beginning of our The negative influence from our surrounding environment parasha, that Abraham was Isaac’s father? Rashi on the spot doesn’t affect us. brings the Tanchuma in order to enlighten our eyes. “Abraham begat Isaac - just because Scripture wrote, “Isaac, Chizkuni on this pasuk says - Isaac’s father was not Abram but son of Abraham” it felt compelled to say “Abraham begat Isaac”, Abraham. As long as Abram’s name had not been changed he because the cynics of that time said, “Sarah became with child had not been able to have Isaac. In other words, if you were to of Abimelech. See how many years she lived with Abraham ask why did the Torah repeat this information, as if Abraham without becoming with child”. What did the Holy One, blessed had numerous sons called Isaac, when in fact he had only be He, do? He shaped Isaac’s facial features exactly similar one by that name? The Torah wished to stress that ultimately to those of Abraham’s, so that everyone had to admit that Abraham’s historical stature was assured only by his son Isaac. Abraham begat Isaac. This is what is stated here: that Isaac The Torah hints at a famous line by King Solomon in Proverbs was the son of Abraham, for there is evidence that Abraham 17,6: “The crown of the elders are their grandchildren, but the begat Isaac”. So because of a few clowns, G-d needed to make glory of children are their parents”. Now everything is clear. a crazy miracle and the Torah needed to add extra words?? When our parasha talks about the descendants of Isaac, it is Furthermore, why here is the right place to explain this idea the perfect location to tell you where Isaac is coming from and instead of when the Torah actually talked about Isaac’s birth? in what way.

In order for us to understand this pasuk, we need to think about May we all be zoche to be connected to our fathers’ Jewish the importance of the relationship between Abraham and tradition and to pass it to the future generations! Isaac. They were the first father and son in the Jewish nation and they are the foundation for all of us. The way that we learn Shabbat Shalom Umevorach!!! Torah and continue the legacy of our leaders is only through direct connection between a rabbi to his students and between 8 DAILY STUDY A COMPLETE GUIDE TO ALL CLASSES AND COURSES OFFERED AT THE SHUL HTTPS://ZOOM.US/ 6457054016 PASSWORD: 699576 ALL OUR CLASSES ARE HAPPENING "VIRTUALLY" PLEASE DOWNLOAD THE ZOOM APP FROM APPLE STORE OR ANDRIOD AND JOIN OUR CLASSES. UPDATED CLASS SCHEDULES ARE EMAILED OUT DAILY

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY

7:20 - 7:59 am 7:20 - 7:59 am 7:20 - 7:59 am 7:20 - 7:59 am 7:20 - 7:59 am CHASSIDUS CHASSIDUS CHASSIDUS CHASSIDUS CHASSIDUS Heichaltzu Heichaltzu Heichaltzu Heichaltzu Heichaltzu Rabbi Zalman Lipskar Rabbi Zalman Lipskar Rabbi Zalman Lipskar Rabbi Zalman Lipskar Rabbi Zalman Lipskar 8:00 - 8:15 am 8:00 - 8:15 am 8:00 - 8:15 am 8:00 - 8:15 am 8:00 - 8:15 am SYNOPSIS CHITAS SYNOPSIS CHITAS SYNOPSIS CHITAS SYNOPSIS CHITAS SYNOPSIS Chumash, , Chumash, Tanya, Chumash, Tanya, Chumash, Tanya, Chumash, Tanya, Rambam’s book Rambam’s book Rambam’s book Rambam’s book Rambam’s book of Mitzvos of Mitzvos of Mitzvos of Mitzvos of Mitzvos Rabbi Zalman Lipskar Rabbi Zalman Lipskar Rabbi Zalman Lipskar Rabbi Zalman Lipskar Rabbi Zalman Lipskar 8:30 - 9:30 am 8:30 - 9:30 am 8:30 - 9:30 am 8:30 - 9:30 am 8:30 - 9:30 am DAF YOMI DAF YOMI DAF YOMI DAF YOMI DAF YOMI Tractate Shabbos Tractate Shabbos Tractate Shabbos Tractate Shabbos Tractate Shabbos Rabbi Dov Schochet Rabbi Dov Schochet Rabbi Dov Schochet Rabbi Dov Schochet Rabbi Dov Schochet (Men) (Men) (Men) (Men) (Men) 9:30 - 10:00 am 9:30 - 10:00 am 9:35 - 10:00 am 9:30 - 10:00 am 9:30 - 10:00 am RAMBAM RAMBAM MEGILLOT RAMBAM RAMBAM One chapter a day One chapter a day Mishlei - Book of Proverbs One chapter a day One chapter a day Rabbi Aryeh Schottenstein Rabbi Aryeh Schottenstein Rabbi Dov Schochet Rabbi Aryeh Schottenstein Rabbi Aryeh Schottenstein (Men & Women) 1:30 - 2:30 pm 10:05 - 10:30 am 10:00 - 11:00 am 11:15 am - 12:00 pm 10:30 - 11:00 am THE BOOK OF DANIEL PARSHA OF THE WEEK PARSHA OF THE WEEK PARSHA OF THE WEEK FOOD FOR THOUGHT Rabbi Dov Schochet Rabbi Aryeh Schottenstein Rebbetzin Chani Lipskar Rabbi Shea Rubinstien Dobie Rubinstien (Men & Women) (Men & Women) (Women Only) (Men & Women) (Women Only)

8:00 - 8:45 pm 11:00 am - 12:00 pm 11:15 - 12:15 pm 12:00 - 1:00 pm 4:15 - 4:30 pm SICHA SHABBOS TANYA SENIOR TORAH ACADEMY SHABBOS INSPIRATION Text based Rebbe Sicha Exploring customs w/ Rabbi Sholom Lipskar Rabbi Dov Schochet Rabbi Sholom Lipskar Rabbi Zalman Lipskar chassidus and (Men & Women) Book of Judges (Men & Women) (Men & Women) Rabbi Shea Rubinstien (Men & Women) 8:45 - 9:45 pm 12:00 - 1:00 pm 3:00 pm 4:00 pm PARSHA IN SPANISH PIRKEI AVOT TANYA IN ENGLISH PARSHA IN SPANISH Rabbi Shea Rubinstein Rabbi Dov Schochet Mrs. Vivian Perez Mrs. Vivian Perez (Men & Women) (Men & Women) (Women Only) (Women Only) https://zoom.us/j/758161843 https://zoom.us/j/758161843 password 5899

8:00 pm 8:00 pm PARSHA OF THE WEEK PARSHA OF THE WEEK Rabbi Sholom Lipskar Rabbi Zalman Lipskar (Men & Women)

9 DAILY WISDOM Inspiring insights on the Torah

Shabbos, 5 Kislev Monday, 6 Kislev

Showing Respect Respectfully Feeding and Clothing the Soul Esau went to Ishmael and married Machalat, the daughter Jacob vowed, “If G-d will be with me and protect me of Abraham’s son Ishmael. Genesis 28:9 on this journey that I am undertaking, and will provide me with bread to eat and clothing to wear, returning Esau’s respect for his father was exemplary. He waited on me to my father’s house untainted.” Genesis 28:20- his father dressed in special garments. When he decided 21 to kill Jacob, he refrained from doing so despite his raging Bread and clothing refer allegorically to the study of the anger in order not to pain his father. As soon as he heard Torah and to the performance of G-d’s commandments, that his Canaanite wives displeased his parents, he lost no respectively. When we study the Torah, G-d’s wisdom time in marrying his cousin. becomes part of us, just as the food we eat becomes part of us. When we perform a commandment, we are enveloped Nevertheless, Esau’s reverence for his father did not by an external, transcendent feeling of inspiration, much as prevent him from speaking to Isaac disrespectfully, saying, a garment surrounds and warms us. “My father, arise.” In contrast, his brother Jacob courteously asked Isaac to “Please arise.” Similarly, Esau later referred In this context, “returning to my father’s house untainted” to his father’s death harshly, saying, “The days of mourning alludes to our return to the domain of holiness after for my father will soon be here.” venturing out temporarily into the mundane world in order to refine and elevate it to holiness. We can learn from Esau’s coarse behavior that an essential facet of doing what is right is doing it in a kind and considerate way. For example, the words we speak should not only be meaningful and free of any prohibited types of talk (falsehood, gossip, slander, etc.); they should also be refined and delicate, as were Jacob’s. Tuesday, 8 Kislev

The Proper Use of Jealousy Sunday, 7 Kislev Rachel saw that she had not borne Jacob any children; Rachel was jealous of her sister [Leah]. Genesis 30:1 The Source of Confidence and Joy Light of foot, Jacob set out for the land of the people who Destructive, petty jealousy is born of the fear that the lived to the east. Genesis 29:1 other person’s successes will lessen our own self-worth. In contrast, Rachel attributed Leah’s fertility to her Even though Jacob was on his way to enter a spiritually righteousness, and was therefore jealous of her sister’s dangerous environment, his joy in fulfilling his Divine good deeds. This sort of jealousy is constructive, since mission and trust in G-d’s protection permeated his entire it spurs us on to improve ourselves. Our sages similarly being, down to his feet. Following Jacob’s example, we can state that jealousy among Torah scholars increases adopt the same joyful and confident attitude when we set wisdom. Jealousy can be a positive force in our lives when out to tackle life’s numerous daily, mundane activities, we learn to apply it correctly. even though they may not seem as spiritual. The key is to make sure beforehand that, like Jacob, we are properly nourished (by studying the Torah), properly clothed (by observing G-d’s commandments), and properly focused on our goal (of making the world into G-d’s home).

10 Wednesday, 9 Kislev Thursday, 10 Kislev

Bringing Home the Estrangeds True Wealth [Rachel] named him Joseph [“May He add” in The man thus became exceedingly prosperous. Genesis Hebrew], saying, “May G-d add another son 30:43 for me.” Genesis 30:24

Rachel’s prayer sums up Joseph’s spiritual mission Aside from his material wealth, Jacob also attained true, spiritual in life – to turn “another,” i.e., a seeming stranger, wealth: he succeeded in raising all of his children to follow in the into a “son.” This mission expresses itself in three righteous ways of Abraham and Isaac, and did not produce a single ways: First, in making the mundane world – which wicked son (of the likes of Esau or Ishmael, who were born to his appears to be separate from G-d – acknowledge forbears Abraham and Isaac). and celebrate its Divine source. Second, in personal repentance, through which we transform Jacob was able to do this because he synthesized the inspirational ourselves from estranged “others” into “sons” approach of Abraham and the self-disciplining approach of Isaac. who belong. Third, in reaching out to those who By relating to G-d with simple sincerity, Jacob both transcended seem estranged from G-d, revealing to them that the differences between the opposite approaches of his forebears they are G-d’s precious children, for whom living and was able to relate equally well to each of his children’s different life according to G-d’s plan is simply natural. personalities. It was also because of his simple sincerity that Jacob was able to outwit the crafty, scheming Laban. Let us not feel inadequate or incapable of effecting such transformations, for we do not work unaided. Rachel said, “May G-d add for me another son” – Jacob’s example teaches us that while logic and reason have we are merely G-d’s instruments, and it is really their place, the foundation of our relationship with G-d is simple, He who lovingly welcomes His estranged children sincerity. This sincerity then enables us to relate effectively to home. others no matter how different they may be from us.

Friday, 11 Kislev Longing for Home [Laban said to Jacob,] “You departed now because you longed continuously for your father’s house.” Genesis 31:30

Jacob’s stay with Laban foretold our own sojourn in exile. Just as Jacob was far away from his physical home and immersed in an environment that opposed spirituality, our exile comprises both a physical Diaspora and – more importantly – the spiritual darkness of the unredeemed world. And just as Jacob was never comfortable in his place of exile and constantly yearned to return to his father’s home, so must we constantly yearn to return to our Father’s “home.” No matter how successful we are in fulfilling our Divine mission in exile, we must never feel “at home” in it.

When we consider how long the exile has continued, we might erroneously feel that our longing has not born any fruit. The truth is, however, that the more we realize the significance of our spiritual exile, the more our longing for the Messianic Redemption is intensified, which in turn hastens the Redemption.

11 PARSHAH MESSAGES JACOB AND ESAU Based on the teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe

n many respects, the Torah’s account The Lubavitcher Rebbe explains that implanted within them in order to elicit of Isaac’s family reads like a replay of the fact that Esau was naturally that special delight that can come only Abraham’s. Many years of childlessness inclined toward idolatry was not, from the conquest of evil. Iare followed by the birth of two sons— in and of itself, a negative thing. It the elder one wicked and the younger one meant that his ordained mission in This, says the Lubavitcher Rebbe, is righteous. Isaac favors the elder son, Esau, life was the conquest of evil rather the deeper significance of Rashi’s much as Abraham is sympathetic toward than the cultivation of good. commentary on the opening words his elder son, Ishmael, while Rebecca, of our parshah. Citing the verse, “And like Sarah, perseveres in her efforts to Jacob and Esau are the prototypes these are the generations of Isaac,” ensure that the younger, righteous son for two types of souls, each with a Rashi comments: “Jacob and Esau who is recognized as the true heir of Abraham distinct role to play in the fulfillment are mentioned in the parshah.” The and the sole progenitor of the “great of the Divine purpose in creation. simple meaning of this commentary nation” which G-d promised to establish Maimonides calls these two is that the word toldot (“generations”) from his seed. spiritual types “the perfectly pious” can also refer to a person’s deeds and and “the one who conquers his achievements (cf. Rashi’s commentary There is, however, a significant difference inclinations”; Rabbi Schneur Zalman on Genesis 6:9); Rashi is telling us between the two sets of brothers. refers to them as the “Tzaddik” and that here the word toldot is to be the “Beinoni.” Humanity is divided understood in its literal sense—the Ishmael and Isaac were born of two into these two types, writes Rabbi children of Isaac, though these are different mothers: Ishmael was the son Schneur Zalman in his Tanya, named only further on in the parshah. of Hagar, a former Egyptian princess because “there are two kinds of still attached to her pagan ways, while gratification before G-d. The first On a deeper level, says the Rebbe, Isaac was the son of the righteous is generated by the good achieved Rashi is addressing the question: Sarah. Furthermore, Ishmael was born by the perfectly righteous. But G-d How does an “Esau” come to be a BE when Abraham was still Abram and still also delights in the conquest of descendant of Isaac and Rebecca? How LIKE uncircumcised, and can be said to belong evil which is still at its strongest do two perfectly righteous individuals to his father’s imperfect past (Abraham and most powerful in the heart, produce an offspring who is evil from was born into a family of idolaters and through the efforts of the ordinary, birth? is even described as having himself unperfected individual.” worshipped idols in his youth), while So Rashi tells us: the “generations of Isaac was conceived after Abraham had Thus Rabbi Schneur Zalman Isaac” are the “Jacob and Esau who attained the perfection signified by his explains the Talmud passage which are mentioned in the parshah.” The name change and circumcision. cites Job as crying out to G-d: wicked Esau we know is not a product “Master of the Universe! You have of Isaac but the result of Esau’s own On the other hand, Esau and Jacob were created righteous people, and You failure to overpower his negative twins, born of the same righteous mother have created wicked people!” The inclinations. The Esau of the parshah- and raised in the same holy environment. actual righteousness or wickedness -Esau as viewed from the perspective Their father, Isaac, was “a burnt-offering of a person is not predetermined by of Torah, where everything is seen in without blemish” who was circumcised on G-d—in the words of Maimonides, its innermost and truest light—is not the eighth day of his life and who never free choice is “a fundamental evil, but the instrument of conquest set foot outside of the Holy Land. Unlike principle and a pillar of the Torah and over evil. The Esau of the parshah is his father, he had no idolatrous past and its commandments,” without which the purveyor of the “second delight” no “pre-Isaac” period in his life. So where “What place would the entire Torah and an indispensable element of the did Esau’s “evil genes” come from? have? And by what measure of purpose of life on earth. justice would G-d punish the wicked Even more puzzling is the fact that Esau’s and reward the righteous?” Yet Job In this also lies the deeper deeper wickedness seems predestined from the is right—G-d does indeed create meaning of the Midrash that describes womb. If Esau had turned bad later in life, “righteous people” and “wicked Jacob and Esau fighting in the womb we might attribute this to the fact that people” in the sense that while “over the inheritance of the two every man is given absolute freedom of certain souls enjoy a life wholly worlds” (i.e., the material world and choice to be righteous or wicked. But how devoted to developing what is good the “world to come”). This would seem are we to explain Esau’s gravitation to evil and holy in G-d’s world, other souls to be one area in which they would even before he was born? must struggle against negative have no quarrel: the Esau we know traits and ominous perversions desires the materialism of the physical 12 world and shuns everything that is G-dly and spiritual, while the reverse is true of HEART AND MIND: Jacob. So what were they fighting over?

Explains the Rebbe: The “world to come” ESAU AND JACOB is not a reality that is disconnected By Menachem Feldman from our present existence. Rather, it is the result of our present-day efforts in Your mind and heart are propel you to great heights, but without dealing with and perfecting the material opposites. the mind’s guidance, your passion may world. The world of Moshiach is the propel you to a place you don’t want culmination of all positive achievements Your mind breaks everything to be. For the heart is from the world of history, the era in which the cosmic into small bite-size pieces, while of Tohu, “Chaos,” a world of intense yield of mankind’s every good deed will your heart sweeps everything passion but no direction, while the mind come to light. together as one. is from the world of Tikkun, “Order.”

In other words, our present world is the So the next time you’re not sure if what means and the “world to come” is the Your heart knows no details. If you love is right for you, take out a sheet goal. This is the deeper significance of your heart is in love, it is in love Jacob’s claim on the “world to come,” completely. If it loves someone, of paper and list the pros and cons. and Esau’s (and here we speak of the then the totality of that person, What you are doing is bridging the heart “Torah’s Esau,” the righteous conqueror with all his or her complexities, and mind, leading to a more integrated, of his inclinations) preference for the are all swept up in that love. If holistic life. In Kabbalistic terminology, present world. Jacob sees perfection as someone tells you, “I love all only the World of Order can elevate the the only desirable state of man, while of you, except for one small World of Chaos. Esau sees the struggle with imperfection detail about you that annoys as desirable in and of itself. me,” then you know it is not This, says chassidic philosophy, explains her heart talking; it’s her mind all you need to know about Esau and Yet both Jacob and Esau recognize the talking. For the heart is blind to Jacob. necessity for both of “the two worlds,” for the process and its outcome. The detail—which is precisely why Isaac loved Esau. Only the World BE “perfectly pious” man also requires the it is so passionate. When you LIKE material world as the vehicle that leads to weigh every detail individually, of Order can elevate the World of ultimate perfection. And the “conqueror” somehow, the magic escapes. ChaosWhy? Because he saw the energy also sees perfection as the goal to which of chaos. For to survive, argues his efforts lead. For although his purpose Your mind, on the other hand, is Isaac, you need passion, commitment in life is defined by the process itself, a analytical. It breaks an idea into and emotional strength. The intellectual process, by definition, must have a goal. small parts, accepting some, may have the right ideas, but he also polishing others, and throwing has no drive to fight for and protect So this is their “fight.” Jacob and Esau some out. When something those ideas. You need an Esau to each lay claim to both worlds as part of exciting happens, your mind’s job carry, safeguard and implement your their life’s endeavor. But their priorities is to cool you down. It knows that message. are reversed. To the Jacobs of the world, the material world is but a tool, a means indeed the news is exciting, but Rebecca disagrees. to an end. To its Esaus, man’s material it is smart enough to know that involvements and the struggles they “the devil is in the details.” The entail are what life is all about. A futuristic mind tells you things like “Sure, Esau has awesome potential, indeed. vision of perfection is necessary, but you love the new job offer, but But he needs Jacob as his compass. only as a reference-point that provides are you really willing to put up Left to his own devices, Esau may coherence and direction to the “real” with the extra commute time?” or use the blessings to further his base business of life. “Sure, he makes you happy, but is desires rather than to perpetuate his he really right for you?” grandfather’s legacy. Rebecca therefore The tension between them over their convinces a reluctant Jacob to steal differing visions of the “two worlds” is So which do you follow, the the blessings designed for Esau. She not a negative thing. It is the result of two analytic mind or the passionate understands Esau’s potent quality. But world views, both positive and necessary, she realizes that Esau’s chaotic power both indispensable components of man’s heart? Today the trend is to needs direction. mission in life. “follow your heart,” to lead a lifestyle that is driven by desire. Chassidic thought says otherwise. It needs Jacob. Sure, the heart’s passion and drive are powerful forces that can 13 4 POWERFUL INSIGHTS FROM THE REBBE ON PARSHAS TOLDOS

To Give and Give Again

In the Torah portion of Toldot we read of the blessings that Yitzchak bestowed upon his son Yaakov, beginning with the words: “And may G-d give you….” Comments the Midrash: “May He give you, and May He give you again.”

G-d is limitless, surely, His original gift, emanating as it does from his infinite kindness, is without limit. What possible need could there be for G-d to give and then give again?

The transmission of knowledge from teacher to student can be achieved in one of two ways: a) the student may understand his master’s teachings, but not thoroughly enough to be able to innovate on his own; b) the disciple may completely master his teacher’s discourse, so that he is able to amplify on these teachings and come up with novel thoughts of his own. Isaac’s Wells Herein lies the meaning of “May He give you, and May He give you ne activity of Isaac’s on which the Torah again”: G-d’s blessings are so splendid that not only is the person elaborates at some length is his well-digging. blessed with unlimited bounty from Above, but he is inspired to We are told how he reopened the wells make use of these blessings on his own, thereby gaining yet again. Ooriginally dug by Abraham, and how he dug a series of wells of his own. In terms of man’s spiritual service, these two types of students correspond to the righteous individual and the penitent. Isaac is portrayed as a farmer and a well-digger. Isaac had learned the profound secret of the seed: The righteous individual follows the path of Torah and mitzvos growth and profit come only when you allow yourself as they were transmitted from Above, while the penitent, having to disintegrate and become one with the soil from deviated from the path, transforms iniquity into merit. His method which you have come. Isaac was a digger of wells, of service uses his power of repentance — the arousal of which is boring through the strata of emotion and experience also granted to him by G-d — to perform an additional measure of in search of the quintessential waters of the soul. service, a service not readily available to the righteous. Boring deeper than feeling, deeper than desire, deeper than achievement, to the selflessness at the core of self.

Abraham’s love of G-d and humanity took him on a journey from the self outward—a journey etched in the roads of Mesopotamia, Egypt and Canaan. Isaac never left the boundaries of his homeland. For his was an inward journey, a journey into the depths of self, to the essence within.

14 4 POWERFUL INSIGHTS FROM THE REBBE ON PARSHAS TOLDOS

Two Manners of Service

At the beginning of the Torah portion Toldot, the Torah relates that when Rivkah was pregnant with Ya’akov and Esav, “the children clashed within her.” Our Sages explain that, while still within the womb, Ya’akov was drawn to holiness, while Esav was attracted to idolatry.

Esav’s behavior is difficult to fathom. The Patriarchs were, “completely holy”. Their children were conceived and born in complete holiness. How could it be that Yitzchak’s son, Esav, should innately be drawn to idolatry?

The Rambam explains that there are two general manners of spiritual service: the individual who desires to do only good, and the one who desires to do evil, but conquers his evil inclination.

Yitzchak’s Progeny Although the Patriarchs experienced no internal conflict, they were still faced with external opposition to their way of life, Toldot, meaning offspring, relates to the bearing of opposition that they had to overcome. And, although conquest children. In a spiritual sense, the theme of the portion is of one’s own evil inclination may be much more difficult than spiritual parenthood, drawing Jews closer to Judaism, in overcoming outside opposition, nevertheless, the Patriarchs’ line with the saying: “Whoever teaches his friend’s son service in this regard also served as an empowerment to their Torah is considered as if he had borne him.” children, for the following reason: by conquering one’s evil inclination, a person shows how greatly attached he is to G-d; We must however, understand how this bearing of although he desires to do evil, this desire does not hinder his spiritual children — toldot — relates to Yitzchak, since will to do only good. his manner of service (unlike that of his father Avraham) did not entail leaving his quarters to involve himself with This is expressed even more forcefully through repentance. others. Though the person has actually succumbed to evil, his innermost desire to remain attached to G-d is so strong that While Yitzchak’s manner of service did not involve traveling he conquers his evil, regrets his past and returns to His service. from place to place and making G-d’s Name known, his inward manner of spiritual service was so powerful that it These two manners of service — “wholly righteous” and attracted people to him. “overcoming evil” — were also mirrored in their children — Ya’akov was completely righteous, and Esav had the task of This is explained at length in this portion: When there was conquering an innate tendency towards evil. a hunger in the land, Yitzchak thought he should descend to Egypt as his father had — knowing that, with this descent, he could continue his father’s outreach work.

G-d, however, told him that he should remain in the land. For Yitzchak’s manner of service would differ from his father’s; living a holy life while he remained in the land, G-d’s Name would become known — as a matter of course — to others as well.

The reason for the Torah portion’s name is now clear: Toldos emphasizes that the children are similar to their father. Yitzchak remained on his lofty level and drew others to him.

15 THE NINTH OF KISLEV ON INTERCONNECTEDNESS he Ninth of Kislev is both the birthday world who are literally starving. Survival G-dly soul in one direction and the drives of and the yom hillula (the yahrzeit) of the is basically self-centered. Thus, the our animal soul in the opposite direction. Mitteler Rebbe, the son and eventual animal soul cares about itself, not about We can’t come to any resolution. Therefore, Tsuccessor of the Alter Rebbe. In honor of this others. By way of contrast, the G-dly when there are two Jews whose souls important day, it would be beneficial to discuss soul is selfless, concerning itself with strive for the same spirituality, as all Jewish one of the Mitteler Rebbe’s teachings. the welfare of others even before its souls do, it is far easier to identify and own well-being. For this reason, when overcome the self-seeking tendencies of The Mitteler Rebbe once said to one of his a person discusses his problems with a the animal/natural soul. Just as your animal chassidim: “When two people speak to each friend, there are two G-dly souls working soul couldn’t care less about anyone else, other about the service of HaShem , and they on the problem, because it is only the the other person’s animal soul couldn’t care study together, there are two G-dly souls G-dly soul which takes an interest in less about you either, whereas his G-dly against one natural soul” (see , another person’s problems. soul does care about you, just as your G-dly entry for 20 Teves). soul cares about him. Accordingly, you have If we are serious Jews we will sometimes two G-dly souls against one animal soul. I’ll elaborate on this. Those of you who have encounter difficulty in deciding what learned some Chassidus , know that one exactly HaShem requires of us in There is a further point to be made — of the first and most basic teachings of the certain situations. Of course, the Torah because we are all interconnected, by Tanya is that every Jew has two sources of guides our every step. Nevertheless, way of our souls, we can never say, “What consciousness and motivation, called in the sometimes we find that there are difference does it make, as long as I’m OK.” language of Chassidus the G-dly soul (the several alternative ways of acting. Which This is like the story our Sages tell of a nefesh haElokis) and the animal, or natural soul one do we choose? Because our animal passenger on a boat who was busy making (the nefesh habahamis or the nefesh hativ’is). soul tends to seek its own benefit, a hole in the hull underneath his seat. When The latter is the soul which enlivens you, which even within the realm of Torah and the other passengers told him to stop making occupies itself with eating and sleeping, etc., Halachah , the Mitteler Rebbe tells us a hole, for he would sink the boat, the silly whereas the G-dly soul is the part of the person that we should always discuss matters fellow told them to mind their own business which strives toward spiritual goals. of divine service with another Jew. It’s — he had paid for his seat, and it was of no not that when you have a problem you concern to anyone else what he was doing When a person is trying to fulfill the mission of have to pour your heart out, even though within his private four cubits. Similarly, the descent of his soul into this world, he often that is also a good thing. The point is supposing the general, the highest ranking experiences a conflict between the two souls, that every Jew has a G-dly soul, which officer in the army, wants to review the which may be manifested as a disagreement, or lifts us up and makes us strive for things troops. Of course, the soldiers know that on even open battle between a person’s brain, and that are more spiritual. It makes us seek a certain date, at a certain time, they must his heart. In other words, the intellect says one out other Jews to bring them closer to all be ready to make sure that there are no thing, while the emotions tell him otherwise. Yiddishkeit, it makes us go to shul, and wrinkles, their shoes are polished, etc., and The emotions are very powerful (Chassidus to pray even when we’re really not in they are ready to be reviewed. As everybody explains that they come from a higher source the mood. That’s the nefesh Elokis. It is standing on parade, waiting for this great than intellect!) and can sometimes overpower pulls us above the material world and general to walk by, if one of the soldiers is his good sense. That chassid who consulted says, “You know, there’s something not tidy — his buttons were not polished, the Mitteler Rebbe had clearly asked for advice higher.” And it makes us strive for it. It his uniform was a mess — the general regarding his spiritual situation, and how to is your G-dly soul which motivates you wouldn’t be angry at the soldier, he would advance in his divine service. The Mitteler to say, “You may be very comfortable go to the officer in charge and he would say, Rebbe gave him very simple, but very profound right now at home, but outside there “What nerve! How come you didn’t prepare advice: You should discuss these things with are people who are very much in need of your group for this review!” In other words, another Jew, rather than trying to solve it help.” You can go out and make it good the blame is never on the individual, but on alone. On your own, the G-dly soul and the for somebody else, whether this is in a the one in charge of him. If you see a kid animal soul are one against one. Accordingly, material sense, such as giving or lending walking in the street who looks like a mess, either this one or that one will win, and there money, or doing them a spiritual favor, do you say, “What a messy kid!” or, “What is no guarantee that it will be the G-dly soul. such as teaching them Torah, which is an irresponsible mother that allows her However, when you discuss your problems also called tzedakah. Everyone needs child to walk around like that?” with another person, your ability to overcome help in getting closer to HaShem , or to the animal soul is doubled. Why is this so? do a . The nefesh Elokis , by its Each of us is responsible for our fellow Jew nature, cares about somebody else, and who isn’t yet the way he should be, because The G-dly soul is selfless and altruistic, whereas wants somebody else to be good also, we can do something about it. You cannot the animal soul is basically self-interested. whereas the nefesh habahamis couldn’t sit home complacently, saying, “Oh, what’s Its function is to look after the person’s own care less — as long as I’m happy, it says, it my business? As long as I’m OK,” because survival and interests. When you yourself are everything’s in order. you are to some degree responsible for the hungry, even though you ate only a few hours other person’s deficiencies. We are inter- ago, you are much less concerned with the fact Very often we cannot solve our conflicts responsible. This is the Mitteler Rebbe’s that there are people on the other side of the because we are fighting the drives of our message. 16 MY ENCOUNTER WITH THE REBBE MY REAL NAME IS CHANA

s a Chabad emissary in Vancouver, I made it a weekly habit to visit the electronics business of two of my Asupporters and friends — Carl Stein and Ben Tessler — in order to study Torah with them. During those sessions, the conversation often turned to the Rebbe and the power of his blessings. It so happened that they had an in-house lawyer, a Jew named Brian Kershaw. One day in 1976 or 1977, Brian asked me, “Does the Rebbe bless non- Jews as well?” “Of course,” I replied. “My wife is sick,” he said. “And I would like you to ask the Rebbe for a blessing for her recovery.” So I wrote a letter to the Rebbe, giving her that, as a child during World War message with what had happened. But name and her father’s name, as that is the Two, she was hidden in a monastery. then, while I was out buying something, custom when requesting a blessing for After the war ended, she didn’t I ran into the surgeon who had operated a non-Jew. (When requesting a blessing return to her Jewish roots, but ended on my mother. We started talking and for a Jew, the mother’s name is always up marrying a French Catholic and he mentioned to me, “Your mother lived provided because, according to Jewish law, leading a Christian life. a long life.” a person’s Jewish identity is determined by the mother.) “My real name is Chanah,” she told “How can you say that?” I responded. her daughter. “I am Jewish and so “She was only sixty-seven!” A week or ten days later when the letter are you.” arrived in New York — this was before “Yes,” he said, “but while she was in the the advent of fax machines — I received Somehow, the Rebbe knew the truth hospital, I found that she had a heart a phone call from the Rebbe’s secretary, — that all along Brian was married defect. People who have this defect Rabbi Binyomin Klein, with the message: to a Jewish woman. generally don’t make it past forty or fifty at most, especially women who “The Rebbe would like to know her About ten years later, another mother’s name.” bear children. Many die in childbirth incident took place which again or shortly thereafter. So your mother “But she isn’t Jewish,” I replied. demonstrated the Rebbe’s really did live a long life.” extraordinary ability to see and know “I know,” Rabbi Klein said, “but the Rebbe what others could not. I immediately called my father. Hearing asked for her mother’s name.” this, he got very emotional. “Now, I In 1987, my mother came from New understand what the Rebbe meant!” he So I called Brian, who told me that his York to visit my family in Vancouver, said. mother- in-law’s name was Anna but, just and while she was staying with us, like me, he was puzzled by the Rebbe’s she suffered a heart attack. After she My mother was forty-two when she request and he communicated this to his was hospitalized, my father called gave birth to my sister, her youngest wife. She ended up calling her mother, who the Rebbe’s office for a blessing, child, and it was three years later that lived in France, and asking her, “Do you but the message came back that the Rebbe gave her that blessing for a have another name besides Anna?” the Rebbe had said, “I have already long life. She lived another twenty-two blessed her with a long life.” (I later years after that! “Why are you asking?” the mother wanted learned that he was referring back to know. to 1965, when he had given her that When she heard about the Rebbe’s request, blessing.) she suddenly became very quiet. Then she My mother passed away three days said, “He must be a very holy man.” later. She was only sixty-seven. She went on to confess to her daughter We were all devastated and had that she was born to Jewish parents and a hard time squaring the Rebbe’s 17 STORIES WITH SOUL

any years ago, after the rabbi of knocked on the door and the man’s was beautiful and serene. Tchentzikov had been married wife answered. for eighteen years without Black Wolf turned to his guest and Mhaving been blessed with children, he Her horrible appearance marked her as said in a quiet voice, “I know why you travelled to the Kozhnitzer Maggid to a true equal to her husband, for never have come here. I know, I know. You obtain the tzadik’s blessing. had a more hideous and unpleasant and your wife will rejoice in the birth woman been seen. of a boy. But you must name him When the Kozhnitzer listened to the Schvartze Wolf.” man’s request he uttered a sigh from Nevertheless, the rabbi begged her to deep within his being. “The gates of allow him to stay over Shabbat. The rabbi wondered to himself, “How heaven are closed to your petition!” can I name my son after him? It is not he cried. “Very well,” she finally relented. “But our custom to name after the living,” if my husband finds you here, he’ll but he remained silent. “No, no! Please, you must help me!” tear you apart with his bare hands. the man wept desperately. You can’t stay in here, but go into the The following morning Shvartze Wolf stable if you want,” she croaked. passed away. “I cannot help you,” said the Kozhnitzer. “But I will send you to someone else Soon Black Wolf arrived home and After Shabbat, the Tchentzikover Rabbi who will be able to help. You must entered the stable, his eyes blazing returned home. In time, he revealed to go to a certain person who is called with hatred. “How dare you come here! his congregation the hidden identity of ‘Shvartze Wolf -- Black Wolf,’ and he If you set foot outside of this stable, I’ll the hated Shvartze Wolf. will be the one to help.” rip you apart with my bare hands!” True to his word, a baby boy was born “Yes, I know him,” the rabbi said, “He The frightened Jew shivered in his and he was given the strange name lives in my village, and a more coarse, boots as he beheld the terrible visage “Shvartze Wolf.” miserable person you could never of Black Wolf. find.” In the year 1945 Jews who had survived Suddenly the thought came to the the horrors of the Holocaust began At first the Kozhnitzer did not rabbi that a tzadik is so pure that he streaming into the . respond. The rabbi realized that if the acts as a mirror, reflecting the image When the Belzer Rebbe held his first Kozhnitzer was sending him to Black of the person who is looking upon him. Melave Malka (Saturday night meal Wolf, he must have a good reason. taking leave of the Sabbath Queen) in Thus, what he saw in the appearance the Holy Land many Chasidim came The Kozhnitzer then quietly revealed, of Black Wolf was nothing more or and introduced themselves to the “Black Wolf is head of the eighteen less than a picture of his own spiritual Rebbe. hidden saints whose merits sustain impurity. With that, he searched into the world.” his soul, and prayed from the deepest This story was one of those related at part of his being. He poured out that first Melave Malka of the Belzer The rabbi sought out Black Wolf in his soul and in those few moments Rebbe. the forest hut which was his home. returned wholeheartedly to his Maker. Though cognizant of Black Wolf’s true He felt himself suffused with a warm, And at that memorable occasion one identity, the rabbi was still frightened peaceful feeling. man stood before the assembled and to approach him. said, “My name is Shvartze Wolf ben Suddenly he was shaken from his Chana, and I am a descendant of that He devised a ruse by which to gain reverie by the unexpected sensation of child who is spoken about in the story.” admittance to his hut. a soft hand being laid on his shoulder. He looked up, not quite sure what he He would go into the forest just would see, a shiver of fear passing before Shabbat and when he found through him. There stood Black Wolf, Black Wolf’s house, would pretend but instead of his accustomed fierce that he had lost his way. He would beg exterior, he had a refined and peaceful to spend the holy Shabbat there, and visage. under the circumstances, Black Wolf could hardly refuse a fellow Jew that The visitor was ushered into the hut, favor. which no longer appeared rough and tumble-down, but warm and inviting. Friday afternoon he set out and as Black Wolf’s wife entered with her planned reached Black Wolf’s hut. He children, and their appearance, too, 18 19 פ רשת תולדות

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MOZZARELLA STICKS PREPARATION by Tiktok Test Kitchen 1. Prepare a dredge station: place eggs in one plate, four in a second plate, and bread crumbs in a third plate. INGREDIENTS 2. Dip string cheese into four, then eggs, then bread crumbs

12 sticks mozzarella string cheese, plastic wrapping and place on plate. Repeat until all cheese sticks are coated. 3. Pour evoo into a large pot or deep fryer. Heat the oil to 350°F. removed 4. Place cheese sticks in hot oil, fry until golden on all sides. 2 eggs, beaten Remove to paper towels to drain.

1 cup all-purpose four 5. Serve with your choice of dips, marinara sauce, ketchup, mayo etc. 2 cups favored bread crumbs

Olive oil, for frying

23 FRENCH CONNECTION REFLEXIONS SUR LA PARACHA Vivre avec la paracha Présentation de la Paracha Toldot Genèse 25,19–28,9 par le Rabbi de Loubavitch Toledot – Isaac, Jacob et Ésaü

a sixième section du Livre de la Genèse relate l’histoire (toledot, en hébreu) d’Isaac Let la naissance de ses fls, Jacob le juste et Ésaü le méchant. La narration suit alors Isaac dans le pays des Philistins, s’arrêtant sur son étrange projet de creuser des puits. Peu après, Rébecca dupe Isaac en lui faisant accorder ses bénédictions – et ainsi la vocation future du préalable de ceux à qui il s’adressait. Comme le remplir un fossé avec de l’eau amenée d’un peuple juif – à Jacob plutôt qu’à son véritable monde ne portait pas encore d’intérêt à ce qu’il autre lieu, creuser un puits consiste à révéler premier-né, Ésaü. Après avoir réalisé que avait à dire, stipuler des conditions aurait limité une source d’eau déjà existante mais seulement Rébecca était dans le vrai, Isaac envoie Jacob à son infuence. L’inconvénient de cette approche dissimulée sous des couches de terre. Si le Aram afn qu’il épouse la flle de l’un de ses était que, ne requérant aucun travail préalable message d’Abraham était : « Venez ressourcer parents. de son audience, Abraham ne produisit pas en votre esprit avec l’eau vivifante de la conscience elle un changement durable. du divin », celui d’Isaac fut : « À présent que vous Bien qu’Isaac soit l’héritier et le successeur êtes ressourcés, mettez-vous en quête de votre d’Abraham, la Torah le présente comme Cela ne diminue en rien l’immense impact de propre source d’eau. Déblayez toute poussière et l’antithèse de tout ce que nous savons ses efforts – il infuença des milliers de vous révélerez en vous une source de conscience d’Abraham. Nous ne voyons en lui nul personnes et attira un nombre considérable de du divin qui assouvira votre soif durant votre vie prolongement de la grande entreprise de son disciples. Mais ces masses étaient entièrement entière. » père d’éduquer l’humanité ; à la différence nourries par son inspiration, son charisme et son d’Abraham, Isaac ne livre aucune grande bataille, exemple personnel. Quand elles furent privées Dans cette perspective, Isaac constitue un ne se rend jamais hors des frontières de la Terre de sa présence et reprirent leur vie, leur modèle parfait pour l’humanité. On le trouve sainte, et n’épouse aucune autre femme pour enthousiasme pour ses enseignements diminua. méditant dans les champs, évitant les confits agrandir sa famille. Il semble s’accommoder de sans objet avec ses voisins et toujours tourné voir la vie se dérouler autour de lui. La seule Isaac perçut que cette approche, qui était à vers l’intériorité. La perfection spirituelle qu’il entreprise active que la Torah relate à propos l’origine de l’exceptionnel succès de son père, atteignit rayonnait tant que, assortie de son d’Isaac est qu’il creusait des puits. Est-ce là constituait paradoxalement la plus grande succès matériel, elle attirait instinctivement les vraiment le seul accomplissement dont l’illustre menace à sa continuation. Il comprit que, pour autres vers lui. Il n’avait pas besoin de se mettre héritier d’Abraham serait capable ? assurer la perpétuation du succès obtenu par en quête de disciples ; les disciples se mettaient son père, sa discipline à lui et sa rigueur en quête de lui. D’un autre côté, la Torah ne fait état d’aucune (guevourah) devraient désormais parachever la forme de réprobation devant l’apparente bonté (‘hessed) de son père. C’est la raison pour laquelle cette parachah est passivité d’Isaac. Il semble être tacitement appelée Toledot, qui signife aussi « descendants admis qu’Isaac faisait ce qu’il était censé faire. Alors que l’approche d’Abraham peut être ». Tous les personnages de premier plan de la Tranquillement et sans fanfare, il poursuivit conçue comme un vecteur descendant, portant Genèse eurent des descendants, et la Torah juge l’entreprise de son père, non pas en imitant son le divin « vers le bas » jusqu’aux degrés les plus bon de les mentionner tous. Cependant, seule la comportement, mais en le portant à un degré inférieurs de l’humanité, l’approche d’Isaac peut chronique relatant l’œuvre accomplie par Isaac supérieur. être conçue comme un vecteur ascendant qui durant sa vie est intitulée Toledot, car seul Isaac élève les personnes afn qu’elles intègrent incarna une approche garantissant des résultats Isaac comprit que, pour révolutionnaire que fût toujours davantage dans leur vie des niveaux durables, qui produisit des disciples – des « l’œuvre d’Abraham, de par sa nature elle était supérieurs de conscience du divin. enfants » spirituels – en mesure de s’assumer d’un effet limité. La méthode d’Abraham pour eux-mêmes. diffuser la conscience du divin consistait à la Tel était le message qu’Isaac communiquait en communiquer à tous afn d’atteindre la plus creusant des puits. Contrairement au fait de large audience possible, n’exigeant aucun 24 LATIN LINK REFLEXION SEMANAL Parasha de la Semana Aprendiendo a Reír que hacía esta tarea (Abraham y Jacob eran Isaac--Itzjak, en hebreo--signifca pastores). Y hay una cuenta detallada de los pozos que excavó. “risa” Por Yanki Tauber Isaac nos enseña que, fnalmente, la risa de la vida viene—paradójicamente—del trabajo l sonido del gong, expectantes desde una modesto. Si quiere biografías escritas sobre esquina del cuadrilátero, nos lanzamos a usted, conviértase en un guerrero. Si está Auna lucha con esto que llamamos vida. buscando tranquilidad, hágase pastor. Pero si “¿A este mundo nos trajeron? preguntamos es alegría lo que usted busca, sea un granjero arrinconando contra la soga a nuestros mayores. y un excavador de pozos de agua. Are y siembre, “¿Esto es lo mejor que pudieron hacer? ¡Nosotros perfore la ajada tierra de su mundo para hacer cambiaremos esto, arreglaremos todas las forecer la vida de sus profundidades. Excave cosas pendientes, nosotros anularemos el mal, bajo la superfcie de su existencia, para explotar rejuvenecerá el bien, ya verán!” las fuentes de su deleite.

Así que salimos al ring y por diez, veinte años La tranquilidad es buena, pero no es la somos “explosivos”. Sufrimos, nos esforzamos, única razón para vivir. La alegría viene de las “agonizamos”, nos regocijamos con nuestras conquistas, de las batallas arrebatadoras de la victorias, y, gritando de alegría, volvemos a la juventud, pero fnalmente de la auto-conquista batalla. Pero esto, claro, eventualmente nos va que es la batalla más feroz y más silenciosa agotando. Empezamos a notar lo insignifcante de nuestra vida. ¿Conoce gente modesta, de nuestras victorias y lo profundo de nuestras trabajadores silenciosos, con alegría interior? agonías. “Tómatelo con calma” nos empezamos Éstos son los Isaacs del mundo. a decir a nosotros mismos, cada vez más frecuentemente. “¡Relájate!” Hay muchas facetas en la palabra hebrea, toldot en corrupción, él permaneció justo. Durante que signifca descendencia, producto, logros e el Gran Diluvio, Noaj encontró resguardo en Aprendemos a saborear los pequeños placeres historia de vida. El Rebe de Lubavitch señala su arca, dentro de cuyas paredes prevaleció de la vida. ¡Eh!, nos decimos (y a la generación que hay dos Parshiot (lecturas de la Torá) que un idilio casi mesiánico. El león y el cordero más joven, pero ellos no lo captan), ¡De esto se comienzan con las palabras; “Éstos son las moraron juntos, bajo un mismo techo, la furia y trata la vida realmente! “Encuentre su lugar, toldot de...” ; una es la Parshá que empieza la violencia fueron contenidas. pague sus cuentas, escuche música, relájese”. “Éstas son las toldot de Noaj” (Génesis 6:9), y la Parshá que empieza “Éstos son las toldot de En la Torá, un nombre lo es todo: descifre De esta manera nos relajamos por diez, quizá Isaac” (Génesis 25:19). La primera Parshá que el nombre de una persona o de una cosa, y veinte años. Y entonces, un día, nos damos cuenta la historia de la vida de Noaj se llama descubrirá su esencia. Noaj, en hebreo signifca cuenta que algo nos está faltando: ¡ya no nos “Noaj”. La segunda Parshá que es la única que “facilidad” y “tranquilidad”. La felicidad del retiro. divertimos como antes! Y nos preguntamos: se centra en la personalidad de Isaac, se llama Noaj, un ejemplo de ello. ¿esto es todo lo que hay? ¿Si el punto de todo Toldot simplemente. simplemente es algo de paz y sosiego; nunca Isaac—Itzjak, en hebreo—signifca “risa”. En el haber nacido, entonces habría sido bastante ¿Qué nos está diciendo la Torá? La historia caso de Isaac, la conexión con su historia de vida pacífco y sosegado también, no? de vida de Noaj se reduce solo a Noaj; pero no está muy clara. En la superfcie, él es apenas la historia de Isaac es la historia de la vida la fgura exuberante que su nombre sugiere. De ¿Qué pasa luego? Nos podemos quedar misma. Que el hombre puede empezar la hecho, él es casi invisible: aunque sea el más paralizados allí, al borde de una crisis a la vida batallando, oponiéndose a todo y puede longevo de los tres Patriarcas, la Torá apenas mitad de nuestra vida que se puede extender madurar en un Noaj, pero eventualmente debe nos dice algo sobre él. Hay un capítulo donde hacia el fnal de ella. O podemos redescubrir la descubrir su Isaac interior. exuberancia de la vida, desde en un lugar más explica como su padre estaba preparado para sacrifcarlo, un capítulo de como el sirviente profundo, más propio que nuestra atropellada ¿Qué hay sobre la mujer? Con las mujeres es de su padre encontró una esposa para él, y un juventud. la misma historia—sólo que no les toma tanto capítulo de como su esposa e hijo lo engañaron. tiempo darse cuenta. Las mujeres son “reidoras” ¿Pero qué hace Isaac? En la Torá, estos dos estados del ser son naturales. envestidos en dos personalidades: Noaj e Isaac. Bien, nos dicen que trabajaba la tierra y la Noaj era un sobreviviente. En un mundo imbuido cosechaba—el único de los tres Patriarcas

25 NUMBERS TO KNOW

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BOARD OF TRUSTEES Sidney Feltenstein - Chairman Alberto Kamhazi Simon Falic Shmuel Katz M.D. FOUNDATION TRUSTEES Matias Garfunkel Leo Kryss Albert Pollans - President Ambassador Isaac Gilinski Rabbi Sholom D. Lipskar Jaime Gilinski Jaime Gilinski Lazer Milstein David Lichter Max Gilinski Michael Perez Rabbi Sholom D. Lipskar Saul Gilinski Ryan Shapiro Monroe Milstein - Treasurer Sam Greenberg Claudio Stivelman Abel Holtz Morris Tabacinic BOARD OF DIRECTORS Mike Izak Jacob Givner - President Anita Givner Steven M. Dunn - Vice President Sam Greenwald EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE David Wolf - Vice President Sharon Hakmon Joey Givner - Chair Rabbi Sholom D. Lipskar Mitchell Feldman - VP Oversight Ben Jacobson Devorah Leah Andrusier Rabbi Zalman Lipskar Rabbi Zalman Lipskar - VP Development Albert Lichy Janice Barney Lazer Milstein Eric P. Stein - Treasurer Rabbi Sholom D. Lipskar Joel Baum Orit Osman Joel Baum - Financial Treasurer Alexander Matz Steven Dunn Brian Roller Dovid Duchman - Secretary Ezzy Rappaport Velvel Freedman - Associate Secretary Elliott Rimon Maurice Egozi Ryan Shapiro Carolyn Baumel Yaacov Saidof Henry Eichler Marc Sheridan Max Benoliel Seth Salver Mitchell Feldman Daniel Sragowicz Betzalel Camissar Alex Tauber Daniel Gielchinsky Cynthia Stein Barry Cohen Jordan Wachtel Evelyn Katz Eric P. Stein Boruch Duchman Rebbetzin Chani Lipskar Michael Tabacinic Henry Eichler 26