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TO KNOW G-D: IT’S NOT ENOUGH TO  BELIEVE D’var Malchus | Likkutei Sichos, Vol. 26, pg. 114-123

THE REBBETZIN  22 Shvat

MOSHIACH 101  Moshiach & Geula | Eliyohu Soble

STRICT IN OBSERVING HIS WORDS  Moshiach & Geula | Rabbi Zalman Hertzel

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of Belief in the Divine is not simply [to believe] that the Deity exists, “that there is a Divine Being,” but that “the Deity, blessed be He, of Whom we TO KNOW already know that He exists – His existence is more primordial and more complete than that of all the [created] existents and etc.” (as he elaborates on the topic). G-D: IT’S ([Of course, were the Positive Commandment of Belief in G-d no more than to believe in the notion that He exists] this would beg the question: How is it possible to count NOT ENOUGH Belief in G-d as a Mitzva (a Commandment)? The entire concept of a Mitzva is only possible if there is a Being Who commands the fulfillment of the Mitzva. Thus, it TO BELIEVE doesn’t make sense to say that it is Mitzva to believe that there is a Being Likkutei Sichos, Vol. 26, pg. 114-123 Who commands the fulfillment of Translated by Boruch Merkur Mitzvos.) Thus, the Rambam prefaces the 1. In the beginning of the book Mishneh Torah, in the five laws concerning the existence of [prefatory section entitled] “The Enumeration of the G-d [to his mentioning in Law 6 that “The knowledge of Mitzvos,” the Rambam says: “The first Mitzva of the this matter is a Positive Commandment”], because the Positive Commandments is to know that there is a Deity Mitzva of Belief in ([or] Knowledge of) the Divine (sh’yesh sham Eloka), as it is said, ‘I am the L-rd, your requires that we know (at least) these details concerning G-d.’” With this Mitzva, the Rambam also begins the laws [the nature of] G-d’s existence, [describing] how it is that of his book Mishneh Torah [Laws of the Foundations of He, may He be blessed, [exists in a way that] is “more the Torah]: “The foundation of the foundations and the complete than that of all the [created] existents and etc.” pillar of wisdoms is to know that there is a primordial 2. Furthermore, the precise wording of the Rambam Being (sh’yesh sham Matzui rishon) and etc.” has been noted [see Rosh Amana, Ch. 17; Seifer However, in the first law, the Rambam does not say HaMitzvos of the Tzemach Tzedek ibid, Ch. 2, end; and that this knowledge (“that there is a primordial Being”) more – see FN 12], “to know that there is a Deity,” “to constitutes a Positive Commandment. Rather, he first know that there is a primordial Being,” indicating that the discusses at length (throughout the course of five laws) Mitzva is to know with an intellectual knowledge, etc. several details regarding the “primordial Being” before he (Similarly, the Rambam concludes – both in the Mitzva of concludes (in Law 6): “The knowledge of this matter is a the Knowledge of G-d [Foundations of the Torah 1:6] Positive Commandment, as it is said, ‘I am the L-rd, Your and the Mitzva of the Unity of G-d [ibid 1:7, end] – “The G-d.’” knowledge of this matter is a Positive Commandment” It is thus understood that according to the opinion of (not “the belief in this matter”).) the Rambam, the Positive Commandment of, “I am the L- And on this basis, the Abarbanel addresses the rd, Your G-d,” is not only [the imperative to acquire] the question: How can we be commanded regarding a matter general knowledge “that there is a Deity,” “that there is a of beliefs, “which are not acquired through will and primordial Being,” but it also includes [knowledge of] choice”? He answers that the Rambam “did not count the details pertaining to G-d (which he enumerates in the nature of the belief and its truth as a Positive laws). Commandment, but the knowledge of these matters and The Abarbanel explains (in his book Rosh Amana) – the study of them, which brings to the acquisition of quoted in Seifer HaMitzvos of the Tzemach Tzedek [“The beliefs.” Indeed, “this pursuit of knowledge, philosophical Mitzva of Belief in the Divine,” Ch. 1] – that according to analysis, and the application of scrutiny, and this the opinion of the Rambam, the Positive Commandment study...which give rise to beliefs...they formulate the will

 1ES>Q #'1 +-1&' !& and the choice.” Zohar (Sinai, Vol. 32-34) by Rabbi Margalios for Accordingly we can understand why the Rambam did elaboration on this topic.] This is the text of the Zohar not suffice with mention of the details concerning the [from which the Rambam derives the above laws]: “‘You existence of G-d (in Laws 1-7), which a Jew must know shall know that I am the L-rd, your G-d, etc.’ [VaEira in order to fulfill the Mitzvos of Knowledge of G-d and 6:7]. This Commandment precedes all other the Unity of G-d, but he goes on to elucidate (in the later Commandments...to know Him, the Holy One Blessed Be laws, until the end of the chapter) several matters He...that there is a Supernal Ruler Who is the Master of concerning the Knowledge of G-d. the world, Who created all the worlds, heaven, earth, and (Namely, the Scriptural proofs that “the Holy One all their hosts” [Zohar II (Raaya Mehemna) 25a]. Blessed Be He is not corporeal”; that the physical The wording of Rambam in his first law, in terms of descriptions regarding G-d “written in the Torah” are “in content, is the [same as that] of the Zohar: “The accordance with the minds of mortals...it is all metaphor”; foundation of the foundations and the pillar of wisdoms regarding the request of Moshe, “Please show me Your (“This Commandment precedes all other glory” [Sisa 33:18] and the manner by which his Commandments”) is to know that there is a primordial comprehension was “of the truth of existence,” and etc.) Being (“to know Him, the Holy One Blessed Be He”) For at first glance, how is it relevant to bring this and that He is the cause of the existence of all that exists, dialectic in his book HaYad [i.e., Mishneh Torah], a book and all the existents of the heaven and the earth and that of “halachos halachos” [FN 18: the expression which is between them, etc.” (“Who created all the Rambam uses in the conclusion of his preface to his work worlds, heaven, earth, and all their hosts”). The same is HaYad [to strictly define its objective of encoding laws] – true regarding the wording of the Rambam (in Law 5): see the lengthy discussion in Rosh Amana, Ch. 19]? “This Being is the G-d of the world, Master of all the According to the aforementioned we may assert that earth” parallels the wording of the Zohar, “that there is a Supernal Ruler Who is the Master of the world.” Specifically when we know the terms of the From this passage in the Zohar, the Rambam derives that “This dialectics regarding these laws, then the Commandment” is connected with knowledge, “You shall know...to knowledge of G-d is in a manner of “to know” know,” and that it is not sufficient to have a general knowledge “that the – not simply having faith, but an intellectual Deity exists,” but we must know knowledge. details regarding His existence, may He be blessed (from which we understand that “His existence is this is relevant to the obligation “to know,” for specifically more primordial and more complete, etc.”). [FN 24: when we know the terms of the dialectics regarding these However, with respect to the knowledge that “Havaya is laws, then the knowledge of G-d is in a manner of “to HaElokim” (the Mitzva of the Unity of G-d), this know” – not simply having faith, but an intellectual knowledge is “in general...in a general manner (Zohar knowledge, etc. ibid).] Put differently: In order to fulfill the Mitzva of Although the Zohar brings the verse, “You shall know Knowing G-d, we must at least know the foundational that I am the L-rd, your G-d” [VaEira 6:7], as support “pursuit of knowledge, philosophical analysis, and the (and not the verse, “I am the L-rd, your G-d” [Yisro 20:2, application of scrutiny” concerning the existence of G-d, which Rambam brings, thereby seemingly detracting from which Rambam elucidates in this chapter. this parallelism]), that is simply [explained on the basis of 3. We may assert that it is the Zohar that is Rambam’s the particular context in which the passage appears in the source (that the Mitzva of Belief in the Divine entails: a) Zohar]. Namely, the Zohar speaks about how Moshe not only the general knowledge that “the Deity exists,” Rabbeinu taught the Jewish people about the knowledge but also the details regarding the completeness of G-d’s of G-d before the exodus from Egypt (in order that the existence; and b) that this itself must be in a manner of Jewish people would believe “in all those miracles and acts “to know” – notwithstanding the fact that the verse states of might that He wrought on Egypt” [see Nitzuztei Oros only, “I am the L-rd, your G-d”). LaZohar, ibid]). Thus, the verse, “You shall know that I [FN 20: Indeed, it is known that Rambam derives am the L-rd, your G-d,” was stated in the context of many laws from the Zohar. See The Rambam and the [events that were transpiring] then:

#'1 +-1&' !& 'PPRB  However, our obligation to fulfill the Mitzva is include] a lengthy discussion of details concerning “His (according to the well known words of the Rambam great and wondrous deeds and creations”? [Perush HaMishnayos, Chulin Ch. 7, End]) in virtue of Irrespective of the fact that Rambam’s choice of words “the Mitzvos of the Holy One Blessed Be He through in Seifer HaMitzvos [Positive Commandant 3] suggests Moshe Rabbeinu, peace unto him (on Mount Sinai).” that the concept of, “one should contemplate His great Thus, the Commandant regarding Belief in the Divine is and wondrous deeds, etc.,” defines (not only a means to derived from the verse, “I am the L-rd, your G-d.” prepare for the fulfillment of a Mitzva, but it is) the act of Indeed, we find in the Zohar itself (in another place the Mitzva of love [of G-d] – that is, the commandment [Zohar III (Raaya Mehemna) 256b]): “The first incumbent upon the person, gavra (subject), whereas the Commandment is ‘I am.’” cheftza (object) is “that one should engage in thinking (Of course, the fact that we learn the details regarding and contemplating His Mitzvos and His Utterances and the manner by which the Mitzva is fulfilled from the His Deeds, etc.,” following which, “love will result verse, “You shall know that I am the L-rd, your G-d” perforce” – (stated before the Giving of the Torah) is not a quandary, Nevertheless, this explanation is not sufficient, at because in several places [see FN 30] we find that the first glance, to justify Rambam’s inclusion of it – a concept of “the revelation of a matter” or details of a discussion of matters pertaining to the kind of Mitzva are also derived from before the Giving of the contemplation that may arouse in a person the cheftza, Torah. [FN 31: See, for example, Rambam, end of Laws “Love of G-d and Fear of Him” – in his work Mishneh of Circumcision: Circumcision is greater than all the Torah (halachos halachos). It belongs, rather, in Mitzvos of the Torah, for thirteen covenants were made in philosophical texts and etc. The law is that one must its regard (all of which were said before the Giving of the contemplate “His great and wondrous deeds” and the Torah), whereas [only] three covenants were made like. However, the description of “His great and [regarding the other Mitzvos] (all of which were made wondrous deeds” does not pertain, at first glance, to after the Giving of the Torah).] the law of the Mitzva of Love [of G-d], and hence, not 4. According to all the above we can resolve a to Seifer Mishneh Torah. seemingly puzzling matter in the Rambam: 5. The explanation of the matter: In the second chapter of Laws of the Foundations of The topics the Rambam speaks about in these three the Torah, Rambam begins to speak about the Mitzvos chapters – the (conclusion of the) discussion of the of Love of G-d and Fear of Him, and he continues as Supernal Chariot and the Act of Creation – are not only follows: “What is the path to love Him and fear Him? matters of contemplation for the sake of thereafter That one should contemplate His great and wondrous attaining Love of G-d and Fear of Him per se; they are deeds and creations and see in them His incomparable connected to the Mitzva of Knowledge of G-d, or more and infinite wisdom. Immediately he loves, etc., to know so, they constitute a veritable portion of this Mitzva. the great G-d, etc., and he will fear, etc. In accordance As it is explained in the Perush on the Rambam [Laws with these matters, I elucidate great principles of the of the Foundations of the Torah, beg.]: “Included in these acts of the Master of the Worlds, in order that they two Mitzvos (to know that there is a Deity and that there should be an entranceway for the understanding is no other god with Him) is the concept of the Act of individual to love G-d.” Creation and the Supernal Chariot, for from this Thereafter, throughout the course of three chapters, knowledge they will come to know the proofs for the Rambam expounds on, “His great and wondrous deeds existence of the Creator and that He alone is the first and and creations”: one chapter [Chapter 2, Laws 3, end, the foundation of all” [FN 44: though he does add later through 8] about angels (which is a portion of the that it also leads to Love of G-d and Fear of Him]. discussion of the Supernal Chariot), and the two And as it is also emphasized (that the matters subsequent chapters about “the Act of Creation.” He then discussed in these three chapters are a continuation to the concludes: “At the time when a person contemplates these discussion of Knowledge of G-d in the first chapter) in matters and he recognizes all the creations...it increases the very wording of the Rambam [Ch. 2, Laws 9-10]: a) love for the Omnipresent, etc., and he will be in awe and In the second chapter, after the lengthy discussion about fear, etc.” angels, Rambam changes course to explain at length how At first glance, it is not understood: It is true that “the G-d “knows Himself...knows everything...recognizes His path to love Him and fear Him” occurs “At the time when truth, knowing it as it is, etc. He is the One Who knows, a person contemplates, etc.,” but the Rambam is a book etc.” b) At the conclusion of the chapter [Law 11], he of “halachos halachos” [i.e., it is strictly a legal work]. says: “These words that we have said regarding this How is it appropriate, in Seifer Mishneh Torah, [to matter, in these two chapters, etc., all the principles

 1ES>Q #'1 +-1&' !& mentioned in these two chapters are referred to as the will be great sages, knowing esoteric matters and grasping Supernal Chariot.” Both chapters together constitute a knowledge of their Creator according to the capacity of single concept: the Supernal Chariot. c) In the man, as it is said [Yeshayahu 11:9], ‘for the earth shall be conclusion of Chapter 4 [Law 13], the Rambam says, full with the knowledge of G-d as water covers the “The subject matter of these four chapters...is what the ocean.’” Early Sages called ‘Pardes.’” All four chapters together We must understand: constitute a single concept: Pardes. a) What are these two concepts – “knowing esoteric (The reason Rambam connects the “great principles” matters and grasping knowledge of their Creator”? From with matters concerning (contemplation which brings to) the fact that Rambam precedes the latter with, “the sole Love of G-d and Fear of Him [ibid Ch. 2, Laws 1-2] but occupation of the entire world will be to know G-d not with the Mitzva of Knowing G-d (which is discussed alone,” it follows necessarily that the “esoteric matters” in the previous chapter) is because Rambam arranges the are connected with, “to know G-d.” What then entails the topic of Knowledge of G-d in the context of the Mitzvos distinction between “esoteric matters” and “knowledge of that are relevant to it. And since the “great principles” their Creator”? pertain (also) to the Mitzvos of Love of G-d and Fear of b) The syntax of the Rambam suggests that the Him, Rambam, therefore, arranges them in a manner that qualification, “according to the capacity of man,” refers they constitute (not only a continuation to the previous specifically to “grasping knowledge of their Creator” but chapter, as mentioned, but also) a detail of the Mitzvos of not to “knowing esoteric matters.” What is the reason for Love of G-d and Fear of Him.) this? Accordingly, we may say that for this reason Rambam c) How is the (addition of the) conclusion of the verse, “as water covers the ocean,” relevant here? From the words, “the earth The law is that one must contemplate “His great shall be full with the knowledge of G-d,” we know that “the sole and wondrous deeds” and the like. However, the occupation of the entire world will be to know G-d alone” [so quoting the description of “His great and wondrous deeds” conclusion of the verse appears to be extraneous here]. does not pertain, at first glance, to the law of the Moreover, Rambam also Mitzva of Love of G-d, and hence, not to Seifer describes the Days of Moshiach in Laws of Repentance [9:2], saying Mishneh Torah. “that in those days, knowledge, wisdom, and truth will become abundant, as it is said, ‘for the earth brings in his work the “great principles of the acts of the shall be full with the knowledge of G-d,’” but there he Master of the Worlds.” That is, in order to fulfill the does not quote the conclusion [of the verse], “as water Mitzva of Knowledge of G-d, which means (as mentioned covers the ocean.” above in Section 3) that one has (intellectual) knowledge 7. According to what is explained above – that in order of the manner of G-d’s existence (“His existence is to fulfill the Mitzva of Knowledge of G-d we must know more... complete”), it is necessary to (at least) know also the concepts of the Supernal Chariot and the Act of these “great principles,” for (as brought above) “from this Creation – it may be asserted that the two terms knowledge they will come to know the proofs for the mentioned above correspond to these two matters – the existence of the Creator and that He alone is the first and Supernal Chariot and the Act of Creation – as follows: the foundation of all.” The meaning of the term “esoteric matters” (without 6. According to the above – that the discussion of the the explanation and supplementation that this is in Supernal Chariot and the Act of Creation (which reference to the Creator) means matters regarding the Rambam brings in his work) is necessary for the Mitzva “Act of Creation.” Although they are things “that are of Knowledge of G-d, or more so, they comprise a portion composite of matter and form” [FN 56: “the terminology of it – we can also explain the final law, the conclusion of the Rambam, Laws of Foundations of the Torah 2:3, and seal of the book Mishneh Torah [end of Laws of regarding celestial bodies, etc., which comprise a portion Kings], which reads as follows: of the Act of Creation (which is not so of angels; they “In that time...the sole occupation of the entire world pertain, rather, to the Supernal Chariot).], they are, will be to know G-d alone. Therefore, the Jewish people nevertheless, “deep matters” [ibid 4:10], requiring an

#'1 +-1&' !& 'PPRB  “expansive mind to get a clear grasp of the meaning and the Perplexed Vol. 3, Ch. 45.)]. It is not possible to explanation of all the matters” [ibid 4:11]. Therefore, comprehend the latter in a manner of affirmation, but Rambam refers to them as “esoteric matters.” only by way of negation (“knowledge of that which is On the other hand, since this is the “Act of Creation” negated”). [and not the Creator Himself], we may indeed come to an As the Rambam explains at length in his book A Guide understanding of the matter. to the Perplexed [Vol. 1, Ch. 58 ff], it is not possible to Thereafter, a loftier concept will be attained – namely, apply any affirming descriptions to G-d; only negating “grasping knowledge of their Creator,” matters pertaining descriptions. to the Supernal Chariot. Even with regard to angels, since (For example, the fact that it is said that G-d is “wise” they are “form without any matter” [ibid 2:3, end], a means only that we negate all that is the opposite of person, a being comprised of “matter and form,” cannot wisdom from applying to Him. Similarly with regard to have a true comprehension of them. How much more so other descriptions.) is this the case regarding “knowledge of their Creator”; it Thus, we cannot understand G-d with an affirming is certain (as Rambam explains [ibid 1:10 – and see FN comprehension, but only in a manner of grasping that 63]) that it is not possible that “a living man, who is which is negated. composed of body and soul,” should comprehend “the Of course, knowledge of that which is negated is truth of existence as it is.” nonetheless knowledge. In fact, Rambam explains [FN Thus, Rambam is compelled to add, “grasping 67: ibid, Ch. 59-60; quoted in Likkutei Torah on Parshas knowledge of their Creator according to the capacity of P’kudei 6c] that through [contemplating] numerous man.” negations “you will approach comprehension and you will 8. Accordingly we will also understand why Rambam become closer to Him”; “Negating descriptions will bring quotes the end of the verse, “as water covers the ocean” – you close to the knowledge and comprehension of G-d, with the following preface: may He be blessed.” The difference between the Supernal Chariot and the Nevertheless [as it is explained in A Guide to the Act of Creation is (as Rambam says [ibid 4:10]) that the Perplexed, ibid], even the highest manner of matters covered in the Act of Creation do not possess the comprehension of that which is negated does not amount depth ascribed to those matters discussed in the Supernal to grasping the essence of the Creator; “the truth of Chariot (a point which is the determining factor with existence” remains beyond comprehension. respect to the law (a significant legal distinction) 9. With this preface we will understand the difference regarding the proper approach to teaching about the in the terminology Rambam employs in referring to the Supernal Chariot or the Act of Creation, as explained in Supernal Chariot and the Act of Creation: Rambam [ibid 4:11].) With regard to the Supernal Chariot, Rambam says: In fact, this [difference regarding the relative depth of “These words that we have said regarding this matter, in the subject matter] is not only a distinction with regard to these two chapters, are like a drop from the ocean (tippa the “quantity” of comprehension – that the matters min ha’yam) of that which needs to be elucidated on this discussed in the Supernal Chariot are more profound topic” [Laws of the Foundations of the Torah 2:11]. than the matters discussed in the Act of Creation – it is Whereas, when he speaks about the Act of Creation, he different in “quality” and the manner of comprehension, says: “All these matters that we have spoken about as follows. regarding this topic are like a drop from a bucket (k’mar The Act of Creation, since it involves matters mi’dli)” [ibid 4:10]. regarding the Creation itself [i.e., something finite], can According to the aforementioned it is understood be understood in a manner of affirmation (“the simply: Matters concerning the Act of Creation are comprehension of the affirmative”). This is not so, limited, as they are matters pertaining to Creation however, regarding the discussion of the Supernal [something finite]. Therefore, despite the fact that Chariot, matters which are connected with the Rambam only mentions principles and outlines of the classification of the Creator (“grasping knowledge of various chapters in the discussion, etc., for which reason their Creator”) [FN 65: See Rambam’s Elucidation of the it is considered as only “a drop” (k’mar), it is only as the Mishna on Meseches Chagiga (2:1) and his Preface to A measure of a drop compared to a bucketful. Indeed, the Guide to the Perplexed, where it describes how the Act of quantity of water held by a bucket is [itself] greatly Creation is considered to be wisdom of nature, whereas restricted, extremely limited. the Supernal Chariot is considered to be wisdom of the Whereas, with respect to the Supernal Chariot, the Divine. (The fact that this includes a discussion of angels Rambam says, “like a drop from the ocean,” for “ocean” is understood according to the explanation in A Guide to signifies something unlimited, to the extent that in the

 1ES>Q #'1 +-1&' !& realm of Torah law, an “ocean” is (called) “water that has of Creation: no end.” [FN 70: This topic is elucidated in Yevamos Rambam writes in the Preface to his work (in “The 121a; Rambam Laws of Divorce 13:16.] Enumeration of the Mitzvos According to Rambam’s Notwithstanding the fact that the water of an ocean Order of the Laws”) that in Seifer HaMada he includes has limitations (as the Gemara says, “they know how to “all the Mitzvos that compose the main thrust of the law measure how many drops are in the ocean”), of Moshe Rabbeinu, peace unto him. The person must nevertheless, the very fact that it is called “water that has know them first, before everything [else].” From this it no end” is proof that the water of the ocean is such an is understood regarding Seifer HaMada itself that the extremely great quantity that, according to Torah,we can topics that Rambam arranged in the beginning of Seifer (at least figuratively) describe it as having “no end.” HaMada and which are called “Laws of the Foundations 10. We may further assert that Scripture explicitly of the Torah” must be studied before learning the other supports this notion with the verse, “All rivers flow to the topics in Seifer HaMada (how much more so regarding sea, but the sea does not fill up” [Koheles 1:7], meaning topics from the later thirteen books of HaYad). that the sea can never reach it’s capacity. Accordingly we And in Laws of the Foundations of the Torah itself, we may say regarding the water of the ocean that the reason must first of all know the “foundation of the foundations why it is called “water that has no end” is because (since and the pillar of wisdoms.” Since that all “The subject the ocean does not reach capacity, it can absorb and) in matter of these four chapters regarding these five potential it can contain a limitless quantity of water. That Mitzvos...which the Early Sages called ‘Pardes’” is is, the water of the ocean in actuality is limited in quantity necessary in order to fulfill the “foundation of the and “they know how to measure how many drops are in foundations, etc., to know that there is a primordial Being, etc.” (as discussed above at length), it comes out that, in addition In order to fulfill the Mitzva of Knowledge of to the obligation to study these matters in general, we must preface G-d, it is necessary to know these “great the study of these matters to the study of other Torah matters. [FN 75: principles,” for “from this knowledge they will Also see the Rambam’s Letter Regarding the Resurrection of the come to know the proofs for the existence of Dead, end of Ch. 1 and Ch. 2, beg. the Creator and that He alone is the first and And see Rosh Amana, Ch. 19. Above pg. 34.] the foundation of all.” 12. Based on the above, at first glance, an in-depth look into the following words of Rambam is the ocean,” however, in potential, the ocean is not filled required: “I say that it is not fitting for one to stroll in the [to capacity] with all the drops; it is a body of water that Orchard (Pardes) unless his belly is full with bread and has no end. meat ... [i.e.] to [first] know the [laws of the] prohibited And since the matters discussed in the Supernal and the permitted, etc.” [Laws of the Foundations of the Chariot surpass the boundaries and limitations of Torah 4:13]. That is, the topic of Pardes (discussed in Creation, they are considered as an “ocean,” water that these four chapters) may be studied only after we know has no end. many laws of the Torah (bread and meat). Accordingly it is also understood why the Rambam Moreover, the Rambam writes in the Preface to his adds in the end of his work the conclusion of the verse, work: “A person reads from the Written Torah first and “as water covers the ocean.” Namely, he thereby suggests thereafter he reads from this. From this he will know the that – notwithstanding the fact that in those days there entire Oral Torah; he will not have to read another book will be, “grasping knowledge of their Creator according to among them.” After [study of] the Written Torah, one the capacity of man,” nevertheless – since this is need not study other books of the Oral Torah (and “knowledge of their Creator,” it is always (also) beyond obviously not “the [legal] investigations of Abayei and the created being, “as water covers the ocean” (it can be Rava” nor filling one’s belly with bread and meat). But the grasped only through knowledge of the negated, as first thing the Rambam begins teaching is [none other mentioned above). than] the Supernal Chariot and the Act of Creation! 11. From all the above we also derive an instruction Furthermore, Rambam arranged these four chapters relevant to the study of the Supernal Chariot and the Act in his work, regarding which he says in his Preface – that

#'1 +-1&' !& 'PPRB  it is “for [both] the small and the great.” Obviously, the This is not so, however, with regard to the matters “small” person’s belly is not full of bread and meat. discussed in the four chapters in Rambam; they are 13. The explanation of the matter is that Rambam without lengthy explanation and etc. [Thus, their study actually forewarns of this [confusion] with his precise cannot be considered as “strolling.”] The Rambam choice of words: “it is not fitting for one to stroll in himself emphasizes that it is merely “like a drop from the Pardes” (departing from the terminology of the Sages, ocean of that which needs to be elucidated on this topic” “they entered Pardes” [Chagiga 14b], which he himself (similarly with regard to the Act of Creation, it is “like a cites). “To stroll” does not at all mean to enter, but rather, drop from a bucket”), as explained above. In fact, they are being in Pardes at length and in a manner of strolling, not even classified as “outlines of the chapters” (for even having pleasure [see Chagiga ibid], delving into these the outlines of the chapters regarding the Supernal topics with a deep and expansive contemplation, to the Chariot may not be taught in public; how much more so extent that one takes pleasure in the matter. This manner is it not “for the small and the great [alike]”), but only as general information (albeit foundational). Thus, it is not at all ...delving into these topics with a deep and classified as “to stroll in Pardes.” expansive contemplation, to the extent that one 14. On the other hand, concerning the study of these matters takes pleasure in the matter (“strolling” in in this manner (general information), as the Rambam arranges them in his Pardes). It is this manner of the study of Pardes work – on the contrary: This must be studied “first of all,” for the that must be only after one’s “belly is full with “foundation of the foundations and bread and meat.” the pillar of wisdoms” is that we should have knowledge of G-d. Indeed, the other laws of the Torah of the study of Pardes must be only after one’s “belly is stand on this pillar and are founded on this foundation. full with bread and meat.” Also, as Rambam rules [in And from being involved now in the matter of Laws of the Foundations of Torah 4:10-11; 2:12], “The knowledge of G-d, we will soon merit “the Days of Early Sages commanded that we may not teach these Moshiach,” when (in the wording of Rambam, mentioned matters in public.” [FN 84: And see Rambam’s above) “the sole occupation of the entire world will be to introduction to A Guide to the Perplexed. Therefore, know G-d alone...‘for the earth shall be full with the (since we do not teach the Supernal Chariot nor the Act knowledge of G-d as water covers the ocean.’” of Creation in public) he writes (in A Guide to the (From the addresses of Yud-Alef Nissan, Acharon Shel Pesach, and Shabbos Perplexed) only outlines of the various chapters in the Parshas Emor 5744, Shabbos Parshas VaEira 5745) discussion, and this too, only by way of allusion, etc. Look there.]

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 1ES>Q #'1 +-1&' !& PPES>Q THE REBBETZIN

The Rebbetzin did not say who she A compilation of stories about was and whoever answered the Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka a”h. * phone said that they did not call girls to the phone. “So I don’t know Presented for her yahrtzait on 22 Shvat. how to contact her.” When I heard this, I went to the principal of Beis Rivka and told him THE REBBE’S CHILDREN didn’t mind?” what happened. As a result, they A boy from a family that was She said, “When I saw the changed the rule. close to the Rebbetzin once visited Rebbetzin forgo it [i.e., having a In the meantime, my father-in- the Rebbetzin and innocently asked, meal with the Rebbe], I also gave it law gave the Rebbetzin the telephone “Why do the Rebbe and Rebbetzin up – and with simcha. number of the apartment where my need such a big house where there The Rebbe responded, “The daughter stayed with two are no children?” Without waiting Rebbetzin gave it up for forty years roommates. The Rebbetzin called for an answer he said, “Ah, probably already!” and asked for my daughter, but she there used to be children here and wasn’t in at the time; one of her they grew up and got married and A TALENT FOR GIVING, roommates answered the phone. She now the house is just for you…” GENEROUSLY AND said that Chaya was out shopping Without showing the least sign of KINDLY and she offered to take a message. being offended, the Rebbetzin smiled The Rebbetzin said that it was “Mrs. and said, “Right, right. All the Rabbi Shmuel Lew also related: Schneersohn from President Street” Chassidim are the Rebbe’s children.” When my oldest daughter was calling and asked that Chaya return learning in Beis Rivka in New York, the call. That is how the connection my in-laws visited the Rebbetzin in was established between them and SHE GAVE IT UP FOR Tishrei along with other relatives FORTY YEARS ALREADY! from then on, my daughter began to including my daughter, their visit the Rebbetzin. Rabbi Shmuel Lew from England granddaughter. My mother-in-law On Purim she brought the related: told the Rebbetzin that her Rebbetzin mishloach manos. The My father-in-law, Zalman Jaffe granddaughter remained in Crown Rebbetzin invited her in and offered a”h was born in Manchester. He was Heights even though she didn’t have her something to eat but she said a descendent of Chabad Chassidim. a single relative there, but she was she had already eaten. He and his wife, my mother-in-law, happy to be there and to learn in the The Rebbetzin asked her, “Are enjoyed a very close relationship Rebbe’s mosad. you going to the Rebbe’s with the Rebbe. The Rebbetzin replied, “I will try farbrengen?” She said she was and On Shavuos 5728, nearly forty to remain in touch with her.” We the Rebbetzin said that at the years ago, my father-in-law was thought the Rebbetzin said this to Rebbe’s farbrengen you need a lot of invited to the Yom Tov meal with the make us feel good and didn’t mean strength to contend with the crowds, Rebbe in the home of Rebbetzin it literally. A few weeks later, my “So eat something…” Nechama Dina, the wife of the father-in-law called the Rebbetzin as One time, the whole family Rebbe Rayatz. he did, every year, to wish her a visited the Rebbetzin and my After Yom Tov, they had a happy anniversary. The Rebbetzin daughter was there too. The yechidus and the Rebbe asked my took the opportunity to tell him, “I Rebbetzin said that since she was mother-in-law, “Mrs. Jaffe, did you have tried to be in touch with your local, she should cut the cake. My permit your husband to have the granddaughter but without success.” daughter took the knife and cut a meal with me rather than eat with He asked the Rebbetzin how she thin slice. The Rebbetzin took her you?” She answered Yes. tried and she said, “I called Beis hand and showed her how to cut a The Rebbe asked again, “You Rivka and asked for Chaya Lew.” thicker piece and said, “I will teach

#'1 +-1&' !& 'PPRB  you how to be a balabusta.” “If it is not too difficult for you, world and she didn’t need us to When my daughter told me this, could you please come to the house inform her. I thought how the Rebbetzin had a and take a thermos for the Rebbe?” special knack for giving, generously, Of course, Rabbi Garelik said he SENSITIVITY kindly and with sensitivity to others. could and he ran to the Rebbe’s Mrs. Esther Sternberg, daughter house, took the thermos which was of the Chassid, R’ Shneur Zalman ready for him, and when he returned PLEASE, IF IT’S NOT TOO Gurary, a mekurav of Beis Rebbe to 770 he put it near the Rebbe’s DIFFICULT FOR YOU related that when her father was in room. the hospital, the Rebbetzin called to Over the years there were times That was the Rebbetzin’s way of find out how he was. She asked who that the Rebbetzin prepared a doing things, in a refined manner was watching over him. thermos of tea for the Rebbe and and hesitantly asking whether it Mrs. Sternberg said that since one of the bachurim was sent to the wasn’t too difficult. Rebbe’s house to get the thermos. she taught during the day, she went to her father after work. The Rebbetzin asked her, “Do you eat before you go?” When my daughter told me this, I “No, I don’t have time, but I eat when I come home.” thought how the Rebbetzin had a The next day, early in the morning, before she left the house, special knack for giving, generously, the Rebbetzin called her and said, “I kindly and with sensitivity to others. found out that there is a little store near the hospital where you can buy juice that is kosher as well as nutritious. Please, before you go up The thermos was usually ready SCHNEERSOHN WAS between the two doors so they did to the hospital, drink something so not have to ring the bell and bother ALWAYS A POWERFUL you will have strength.” the Rebbetzin. NAME In the early years of the nesius, One of the Chassidim who visited PEOPLE RELY ON HIM the payphone in 770, which was the Rebbetzin with his family wanted Mrs. Fruma Junik relates: located near the small zal, rang. to give her nachas and he told her When the Rebbe and Rebbetzin Rabbi Gershon Mendel Garelik, who how the world hears about and lived on New York Avenue, my was a Tamim in yeshiva at the time, admires the Rebbe’s work and is husband went to their apartment. As answered the phone. aware of how great he is. The he passed the dining room he “Who is speaking?” said a Rebbetzin replied in her glanced at the table and saw many woman. characteristic royal, Lubavitcher s’farim and open letters. “Who is this?” responded Rabbi manner, “I know! Lubavitch was The Rebbetzin noticed him Garelik in return. always strong and Schneersohn was looking and she said, “I don’t look. I They repeated this exchange until always a powerful name!” know that people rely on him.” Rabbi Garelik realized it was the She was well aware of what was Rebbetzin. going on with Chabad around the

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 1ES>Q #'1 +-1&' !& JLPEF>@E DDBRI> MOSHIACH 101

By Eliyohu Soble

In 1951 the Rebbe began leading and the worldwide Redemption are of G-d is not clear and evident to all, Lubavitch by delivering a discourse events that must be accomplished by where materialism reigns, is in steep called “Basi L’Gani.” Among the the actions of the Jewish people. contrast to the many spiritual worlds ideas spoken about then was the They will not just happen at some that exist beyond our human Rebbe’s critical statement that our appointed time, but rather we, the perception. generation will experience the full Jewish people will cause them to However, it is specifically in our and complete Redemption for which unfold. realm, the midrash teaches, that G-d we have waited thousands of years! The Rebbe’s absolute forecast is wanted his essential presence to be This radical forecast was not that this is the generation that is revealed. This ultimate revelation, mentioned only then, but could be going to do what it takes to make that all of reality is visibly permeated heard throughout the thousands of the coming of Moshiach a reality by the essence of G-d, is the speeches and seen in print in the and change the world for good. Redemption we speak of, and it is hundreds of books which the Rebbe In other words, these events will Judaism’s goal to accomplish it! authored in the past 50 years plus. come in our time because, with the The meaning of the midrash is At the same time, the Rebbe Rebbe’s guidance, we are going to even more profound, the Rebbe taught, that this event, the ultimate do what is specifically required to explained. The ultimate revelation of spiritual revolution, requires our make them happen. G-d will not negate our realm’s involvement for it to materialize. If this is the case, what exactly do identity, but mankind’s own value This can be puzzling. Is we have to do to make Moshiach system will change on its own to Moshiach’s imminent arrival and the Redemption a reality? create the conditions for the dependant on us or is it absolutely Let us take a step back for a revelation of G-d in all things. going to happen? moment and look at the Chassidic Very profound you might say, but You may have heard the perspective on the meaning of realistically how is this supposed to Lubavitch song “We want Moshiach Moshiach and Redemption. actually be accomplished? now.” In the same vain one might The midrash describes the reason The study of Torah and ask, if Moshiach were coming so that G-d created the world. Namely, observance of Mitzvos are the soon why would I need to demand G-d wanted a dwelling place in the fundamental keys to the unfolding of his arrival? “lowest” of realms. the process of Redemption. It is no Actually, the coming of Moshiach Our reality, where the existence coincidence that Judaism’s mitzvos and Torah laws cover the full stratum of our physical experience. Chassidus explains our fulfillment of mitzvos is G-d’s essential will. By observing the mitzvos we infuse the material world with the essence of G-d. Through fulfilling the commandments we transform objects, which have no obvious spiritual value unto themselves, into items essentially connected to G-d, the creator of all things. The leather of T’fillin, the cotton of Tzitzis, the parchment of the Torah, the candles of Shabbos all fundamentally change. Once used for a Mitzva,

#'1 +-1&' !& 'PPRB  these objects become holy. each Jewish soul. It is utilizing this of course, but it would have been Chassidus explains that this soul power that we create from the “shock therapy.” Now, on the other ability we have to transform the materialistic, seemingly independent hand, the people of the world, Jews physical into that which is holy was reality, a world that is G-dly. This is and non-Jews alike are ready to given to the Jewish nation during an act of Creation! embrace the essential truths of our experience at Mt. Sinai. At the same time when we existence and behave according to As part of the category of Torah, occupy ourselves with Mitzvos or their essential spiritual identities. the study and dissemination of the study of Torah this allows our This is due to our efforts throughout chassidus is an additional key good inclination or G-dly soul to exile of learning Torah, fulfilling component in the process of permeate our identity. Thus we turn Mitzvos and spreading Chassidus. Redemption. In a famous letter, the ourselves (our bodies and distinct We have succeeded in fundamentally Baal Shem Tov related that in a existence) into beings that reflect the transforming the spiritual makeup of spiritual state beyond the material unity of G-d’s creation. the world! All that remains is to world, Moshiach told him that his In light of the above our national reveal it! To take the bold step of coming was dependant on the task during our long period of exile living with the reality of Moshiach spreading of Chassidus to the has been to transform the material and communicating to the world outside world. The Rebbe explains world through the means of Torah regarding the Redemption and unity this story. Chassidus reveals the and Mitzvos. The quota required to of G-d. essential secrets of our Creator and effect this change had to be In addition, the Rebbe said we is a foretaste of the secrets that will accomplished under many have to be aware that we have the be revealed when the Redemption conditions and locations. Each presence of Moshiach; he too only arrives. Thus, chassidus prepares Jewish experience across our long needs to be revealed! and brings the world closer to the history, individually and collectively, What does all this really mean? state of Redemption, as described in were progressive points on the trail, How can it be done? Yeshaya, “The world will be filled covering the full gamut of human The Rebbe clarified this further. with the knowledge of G-d like the experience, infusing each stop with Since the drawing down of the waters cover the sea.” the essence of G-d. essence has been completed, we now With each good deed, with each Once we reach the quota, the can and must reveal the essence. We minute spent studying the Torah, we world becomes ready for Moshiach are in a time, the Rebbe said, where are transforming the world and to come and expose the great now every Jew can reveal their true bringing closer a worldwide transformation that has occurred essence to themselves and the world recognition that G-d is the constant throughout history. at large. creator of existence. Essentially Some of us may have gotten What might that be? changing the spiritual fabric of distracted along the way, but we Our true essence is that our mankind. have definitely accomplished this Jewish souls are one with G-d. Our However, there is an inherent global mission and the world is now essential Jewish identity, represented challenge. We will only fully perceive ready for the final revelation! by the first moment of the radical change we effect within Why am I so sure? consciousness upon awakening, is the objects and the world once In 1991 the Rebbe announced that our distinct existence is Moshiach arrives. Only when G-d that our Jewish mission has been completely G-dly, and not will be revealed in all of Creation, accomplished! Individuals may still independent. which is the full Redemption, will we have issues or setbacks they need to In addition, our bodies were be able to perceive how our Torah work on, but the collective spiritual essentially chosen by G-d to be and Mitzvos transformed the world task of the Jewish people has been Jewish bodies. Hence, the Rebbe and brought it to its redeemed state. achieved! The transformation of the explains the body is really what is What gives us the power to world has been completed; all that is referenced by the term “the chosen transform the world in such a left is for it to be seen! The world is people” (for our bodies deserve the fundamental way? now a ready and waiting vessel for term choice, but the Jewish soul is The Rebbe explains how this the revelations of Moshiach and qualitatively special and on a unique Jewish ability to transform Redemption. revealed level would not deserve the mundane objects into G-dly objects Until our national spiritual task description of being freely “chosen,” works. was done, the world was not ready even though essentially it is, as well). G-d’s essential power to create on its own terms for the revelation of This essential Jewish identity ex nihilo was, in a sense, given to Moshiach. It could have happened, within each one of us is what

 1ES>Q #'1 +-1&' !& chassidus calls the spark of What about Moshiach himself? Moshiach actually comes there will Moshiach. Because we have In every generation there is one still be the negative, but if we really completed all the spiritual missions great Jew who becomes Moshiach if look we can see the good of the required of the Jewish people we the generation is worthy. Chassidus Redemption is already starting to now have the power to reveal, and explains the leader of each percolate. By looking for every live our lives according to our inner generation is the potential Moshiach opportunity to talk, think and act spark of Moshiach, our essence! of each generation. This leader is about Moshiach we actually put This may explain how the Jewish explained to have a collective soul, ourselves in the right frame of mind people change, but what about the which is spiritually connected to to speed up his arrival. We have the other 6 billion people on the planet? each Jew of his generation. This opportunity and guidance from the This new state of being is not aspect of connection is also defined Rebbe that our lives can now be just reserved for our own internal as the spark of Moshiach within completely permeated with development but is especially each Jew. Moshiach. relevant to how we deal with the Chassidus clarifies, one of the The Baal Shem tov explains that world at large. jobs Moshiach has is to reveal the G-d creates the world anew every As a result of the fact that we are spark of Moshiach or essential moment. The Rebbe says the reason in this new phase of Jewish life the identity in each Jew. This enables the for this, is to give us the Rebbe has called on us to spread the Jewish nation to reveal their essential opportunity, each moment, to concept of one G-d and the selves and the identity of Moshiach connect with our creator and move Noachide laws to the non-Jewish to the world at large. toward our spiritual goal. Each nations. The caveat is that we are to When enough of us turn on to moment in time is of significance, explain that these laws need to be what is happening here this will then each moment we are created anew obeyed not because they are logical, domino into the ultimate revelation and are connected to the essence of G-d, each moment is an opportunity no matter what happened in the When enough of us turn on to what previous ones, to start anew and live is happening here this will then with the consciousness of our essence and bring Moshiach! domino into the ultimate revelation Specifically through the analogy of technology in today’s age we can of Moshiach. understand the above idea of always being connected and productive. but because they are G-d-given of Moshiach. Moshiach, who exists Here is a final thought. through Moshe. As daunting as this at all times, is only waiting for the When Moshiach comes, the may seem, the Rebbe asserts the green light to be the catalyst for the Torah says the Jews will be world will listen and change! We full revelation of the essence of compared to a new moon. Why not only need make the effort to live everything, G-d. a full moon? according to our essential Jewish It is truly in our grasp, we just A new moon is a tiny sliver. The identity and along those lines need to open our eyes to the reality coming of Moshiach is about communicate with the world at of Moshiach and act! revealing our essential Jewish large. It is now time for the essential Is this state of being really identity, which will demand the Jew to reach out to the world and attainable? revealing of Moshiach’s essence and finally be a true spiritual light unto We can realize that the identity who is the catalyst for the the nations. They are ready and Redemption is at hand by revelation of the essence of G-d; the waiting for it! contemplating how the world has fabric of all things. Once we begin, The Rebbe is telling us the Jewish already started to change in even with the smallest sliver, the rest nation can now expose our essential anticipation of it. The radical and will come automatically. selves and beliefs on a worldwide even miraculous political changes The Rebbe has told us clearly, scale (T.V., radio, billboards, books) since 1990, the wars, the advancing even describing the message as as part of the coming of Moshiach. of Jewish freedoms almost prophecy, that we are at the end of Most importantly, mankind will everywhere in the globe, the wealth our spiritual exile, because of that, respond to this in a positive and and comforts that are available we only need to essentially begin to accepting fashion, and this will bring today, unimagined technological and see the full spiritual Redemption. the full Redemption! scientific advances and so on. Until Moshiach Now!

#'1 +-1&' !& 'PPRB  JLPEF>@E DDBRI>

Rebbe, had to clarify (“bavarenen”) and say that matters of holiness are eternal…in order that we won’t STRICT IN think according to what we see with our eyes of flesh ch”v. We find equally amazing words in a sicha from Shabbos Parshas Haazinu 5724 (Sichos Kodesh OBSERVING 5724, pg. 2): In the maamarim of my revered teacher and father-in- law, the Rebbe…there are marvelous and remarkable HIS WORDS concepts, particularly in the maamarim before the histalkus, and no one notices…but when we By Rabbi Zalman Hertzel give proper reflection, and in the Translated By Michoel Leib Dobry language of my revered teacher and father-in-law, the Rebbe, “a powerful look,” we notice several Beis Moshiach Magazine is pleased to amazing concepts. This matter present the next installment from the relates not only to the hemshech of “Basi L’Gani,” with its seifer Shlita by Rabbi Zalman Hertzel, allusion to many amazing concepts, such as bringing the discussing the faith of Lubavitcher concept of “no man knows his time and season,” but even the chassidim in the seventh generation. maamarim throughout the year 5710, starting with the maamer [Continued from last issue] Tammuz 5710, where he can of Rosh HaShana…In the Thus, if such things can be said draw vitality, encouragement, maamer of Rosh HaShana 5710, regarding the Rebbe’s teachings in and strength in his avoda in his the Rebbe ruled how the order of general, there are portions that the present location…and if only things must be on all the Rosh Rebbe demanded extra precision. they would be strict. HaShanas to follow until the For example, regarding the sichos Similarly, we find in the sicha coming of Moshiach. given in the latter period before from Shabbos Parshas Chukas, the (Note: See a more lengthy Yud Shvat 5710, the Rebbe wrote 9th of Tammuz 5710 explanation in other sichos on the (Igros Kodesh, Vol. 4, pg. 24): (Hisvaaduyos B’Lashon HaKodesh amazing subject raised in this If only Anash, particularly the 5710, pg. 119): maamer, regarding which the T’mimim, would be strict in The words of my revered Rebbe says, “I have not seen this observing the words of my teacher and father-in-law, the matter discussed in chassidus revered father-in-law, the Rebbe, Rebbe, on the matter of eternal except in this maamer of Rosh especially the sichos from 5710 life said specifically on Yud-Beis- HaShana 5710.” After elaborating and the year before. Yud-Gimmel Tammuz 5709 (and on the matter, he concludes, “And In fact, responding in this not in the preceding years, 5708 this is the halachic ruling that the letter to a certain chassid, the or 5707) – prior to his passing Rebbe issued this Rosh HaShana of Rebbe refers him to a sicha on Yud Shvat 5710 – are surely the year of the histalkus regarding delivered in the last year before by Divine Providence…on the all the years to follow.” Yud Shvat 5710: final Holiday of Redemption (Similarly, we find in See in the sicha from Yud- during his lifetime in this connection with the Rebbe Rayatz’s Gimmel Tammuz 5709 that was physical world, my revered imprisonment in 5687, and as this printed in the Kuntres Yud-Beis teacher and father-in-law, the matter appears in numerous places

 1ES>Q #'1 +-1&' !& (see Likkutei Sichos, Vol. 23, from here that the Rebbe shlita stated maamarim in general (and just not pg. 157), and surprisingly also in clearly that the wedding should be the last one – “Basi L’Gani”) and the above sicha from Shabbos held at the originally scheduled also the sichos; e) the uniqueness Parshas Chukas, the 9th of time. of the things said on Rosh Tammuz 5710. After the Rebbe We understand from all this HaShana; f) the uniqueness of amazes everyone with what the how much chassidim must toil not the things said specifically Rebbe Rayatz said regarding only in the review of the sichos during the last two years (5709- eternal life, specifically in 5709, from 5751-5752, which uplift the 5710); g) the fact that these he continues, “My revered teacher spirit and enliven the heart, but in statements “draw vitality, and father-in-law, the Rebbe, said the precision of the various encouragement, and strength in that with the saying of the maamer sections. [one’s] avoda; h) how specific on Rosh HaShana 5687, prior to (NOTE: See the lengthy instructions can be derived even the imprisonment, ‘haht zich im discussion of this matter by the from the more general concepts, as geredt’ (it speaks for itself) about chassid, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Pariz in the example of the practical the teachings of the Baal Shem in the Hebrew section of Beis instruction from what is written in Tov…and added that, were it not the maamer about causing joy to for this (‘ven er vahlt dahs nisht the groom and bride (and as in the redn’), he doesn’t know if he could well-known language that the have endured and made it through Rebbe will already find the way to the imprisonment.”) reply); i) the Rebbe clarifies Furthermore, what he tells the everything in his words (and as Jewish People to do, he does appears elsewhere – “der Rebbe himself. A chassid once asked the haht altz bavaharnt” (the Rebbe Rebbe if he should postpone his foretold everything)). daughter’s wedding, being just a month after the Rebbe Rayatz’s THE SOURCE OF passing, or to hold it as originally THE “OUTLOOKS” scheduled, in accordance with the precise statement in the previous Here is the appropriate place to Rebbe’s maamer. The Rebbe’s note: reply appears in Igros Kodesh (Vol. Recently, we have been 3, pg. 243): witnesses to an “interesting” In the maamer of the day of phenomenon. Instead of arousing histalkus, there are many Baal the knowledge of the importance Shem’ske verter (miraculous of learning the sichos, the words, reminiscent of the Baal maamarim, etc., out of precision Shem Tov), and the solution to in the various sections, they his problem, as I wrote earlier, is “arouse” the need for deep found in my humble opinion at contemplation in what the Rebbe the beginning of Sec. 5. He will Moshiach, Issues 21-22. It seems did not write! surely internalize (derhern) that we should bring a number of The Rebbe emphasized on what is written at the beginning precise details from these sichos numerous occasions that the test of Sec. 5, and he will state it and correspondences: a) the Rebbe to know from where something is publicly to the chassan and kalla expresses a “request,” “wish,” and derived is its end result. If the and all those assembled. “hope” that in fact, chassidim will result is a positive action, the Since the Rebbe Rayatz wrote be precise, as he stated in his holy manner of thought that leads to in his maamer “Basi L’Gani,” language, “If only they would be this is also positive. However, if beginning of sec. 5, about the precise”; b) the Rebbe expects this the result prevents involvement or significance of causing joy to the conduct from “Anash, and is even r”l negative action, then groom and bride (as he brings the particularly the T’mimim”; c) to the concept is flawed by its very story of Rabbi Yehuda bar Ilai, be precise through a proper nature. who twirled a sprig of myrtle and consideration – “a powerful The Rebbe encourages danced before the bride), we find look”; d) precision in the uninterrupted activities, done by each individual in order to bring

#'1 +-1&' !& 'PPRB  Moshiach! Outlooks that things about which the Rebbe in the aforementioned sicha from encourage, awaken, and lead to wrote that they are not ready for Shabbos Parshas Korach 5748: vigorous activities on this subject print, they too are holy and “We must be precise and learn derive from a positive source, and correct, but not yet for public something in every single word, if ch”v the opposite, we know with consumption, for reasons known and in a manner of study that absolute certainty that their source only to the Rebbe himself. leads to action, which is the is from a place not for G-d. Naturally, we must also learn main thing.” The Rebbe also said In the latter years, the Rebbe from the concept of “mundane on Shabbos Parshas VaYishlach invested long hours editing his conversation of wise scholars.” 5746 (Hisvaaduyos B’Lashon holy sichos for the purpose of Every erasure or correction the HaKodesh 5746, Vol. 1, pg. 686): publicizing them. The Rebbe Rebbe makes as he edits is not just “According to the saying of our edited his sichos to make them as some technical matter in the Sages, of blessed memory, ‘We a set table ready for the seuda. physical sense, such as a printer’s have learned from the talk of However, instead of turning all error and the like, but it also Rabban Gamliel,’ i.e., even our attention to the Rebbe’s possesses some holy and spiritual general ‘mundane conversation’ innovation in a certain sicha and meaning, just as we find in the (and not a matter of Torah study) how much it constitutes an Rebbe shlita’s expressions in such must be in a way that one can innovation in relation to sichos matters regarding the previous learn matters of Torah and given in years past, a number of Rebbe. However, those things that holiness from it.” smart alecks rack their poor minds have been given over to the Thus, if this is the case looking for writings from the community of chassidim, not to regarding His Torah in general, then surely we find this in matters from which the Rebbe himself If only Anash, particularly the derived practical instructions, and asked the entire people to T’mimim, would be strict in observing implement them in actual deed. For example, there is the practical the words of my revered father-in-law, instruction from Shabbos Parshas Shoftim 5751 (Seifer HaSichos the Rebbe, especially the sichos from 5751, Vol. 2, pg. 792): There is the instruction that 5710 and the year before. we must publicize to all members of the generation that we have merited that G-d has chosen a Rebbe on things that were never mention what was submitted for person endowed with free choice, meant to be publicized, and to be print to publicize to the entire who is incomparably higher than precise in them for the purpose of Jewish People, most definitely the members of the generation, preaching to the chassidic must be learned with great vitality to be “your judge,” “your community about what they’re not and enthusiasm, together with counselor,” and the prophet of supposed to do. precision in every letter and every the generation. notation. Until now, we have discussed THE REBBE’S WORDS Furthermore, according to the the Rebbe’s approach to Torah FOR PUBLIC teaching of the Torah regarding study in general. As we begin to how the manner of study must elaborate on this discussion, we CONSUMPTION lead to action – “great is the study should note that when we turn to Everything the Rebbe has said that leads to action” and “the deed the subject of the Redemption in is naturally and understandably is the main thing” – the study of the Rebbe’s teachings, we then the ultimate in holiness. Even the words of Torah of the leader of must clarify an additional and things that the Rebbe wrote as an our generation (i.e., with special most important detail, which the initial thought are G-d’s Torah relevance to this generation of Rebbe himself marked as the one (see sicha, Shabbos Parshas ours) must be with the intention that paves the way to any VaYigash 5751 – Seifer HaSichos and objective of bringing them to discussion of the Redemption. 5751, Vol. 1, pg. 207). Even effective action. As the Rebbe said

 1ES>Q #'1 +-1&' !& JLPEF>@E DDBRI> A DAILY DOSE OF MOSHIACH & GEULA Collected and arranged by Rabbi Pinchas Maman; Translated by Michoel Leib Dobry

18 SHVAT: OUR GENERATION IS THE FIRST GENERATION OF However, this prophecy was said regarding the time of the THE REDEMPTION Resurrection of the Dead. At that time, the Evil Inclination will be nullified, at the level of, “He will cause even his enemies to It is clear that our generation is the last generation of the make peace with him” (Mishlei 16:7). Exile and the first generation of the Redemption. Therefore, there will then be no need to be careful over “All Thus, even in his times, my revered father-in-law, the Rebbe, honor [awaits] the King’s daughter who is within” as we are proclaimed “Immediate T’shuva, Immediate Redemption” now. (HaKria V’HaK’dusha 5701-5702), and “Stand ready, all of (Likkutei Sichos, Vol. 21, p. 379) you” to greet Moshiach Tzidkeinu (Igros Kodesh, Rebbe Rayatz, Vol. 4, p. 279), 22 SHVAT: THE YAHRTZAIT OF THE REBBETZIN CHAYA and all the more so today, decades after this proclamation MUSHKA, WIFE OF THE REBBE MH”M – THE WOMEN ARE was made. BEGINNING WITH SONG, TIMBRELS, AND DANCE EVEN IN (Seifer HaSichos 5748, Vol. 2, p. 584) THE TIME OF EXILE 19 SHVAT: THE TIME AND SIGNS OF THE REDEMPTION – THE Just as at the Exodus from Egypt, “the righteous women of 42 JOURNEYS IN THE WILDERNESS OF THE NATIONS HAVE the generation were certain that G-d would make miracles for BEEN COMPLETED them, and they brought timbrels out from Egypt,” so too with the Redemption from this final exile, when the righteous women In simple terms – …all details of the forty-two journeys “in must be certain, absolutely certain, that immediately mamash the wilderness of the nations” in the time of the Exile have the True and Complete Redemption is unfolding, to the point already concluded, that they are immediately beginning (in the final minutes of and we are already standing “by the Jordan River at Exile) with song, timbrels, and dance over the True and Yericho,” beyond the Jordan at Yericho, eastward towards the Complete Redemption! rising sun.” (Shabbos Parshas B’Shalach 5752) (Shabbos Parshas Matos-Massei 5751) 20 SHVAT: TRUST IN THE COMING OF MOSHIACH—EVEN 23 SHVAT: MOSHIACH WILL WORK IN THE FUTURE TO COME WHEN WE DON’T SEE A SOURCE FOR IT ACCORDING TO SO THAT NO NATION RAISES ITS SWORD AGAINST ANOTHER LOGIC AND NATURE Among the appointed destinies of the True and Complete Redemption through Moshiach Tzidkeinu in connection with The trust in the coming of Moshiach must be in the manner the nations of the world is “And they shall beat their swords into spoken about regarding Chizkiya, who had totally confidence in plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not G-d, to the point that he said to G-d, “I do not have the strength lift the sword against nation, neither shall they learn war to kill, to pursue, [and even] to sing, rather I will sleep on my anymore” (Yeshayahu 2:4). bed and You will do.” That is, without looking upon Sancheriv This matter will be achieved through the activity of Melech surrounding Yerushalayim with all his army, promising to make HaMoshiach himself, as is written at the beginning of the verse, peace on special conditions, he had complete confidence in G- “And he shall judge between the nations and reprove many d, to the point that he went to sleep on his bed, and his sleep was peoples.” sweet due to this trust (not as one who worries so much that it “The judge is Melech HaMoshiach…who will be master over is impossible for him to sleep), and G-d goes to war on his all the nations, and who will reprove them and say to whom behalf, as is written, “And the angel of G-d went out and smote there has been found something undesirable: the defect has been the camp of Ashur, etc.” corrected … Therefore, there will be no war among nations By the same token, each person must believe with absolute because he will make peace between them, and they will have no certainty in the coming of Moshiach, without any doubt and in need for weapons of war, and they shall beat them to make from a manner of “I will await him every day,” even when from the them tools for working the land” (Radak’s commentary on the aspect of logical [and natural] “estimations,” he doesn’t see any verse). source for this, and this very trust will hasten and speed up his (Shabbos Parshas Mishpatim 5752) arrival, speedily mamash. (Likkutei Sichos, Vol. 7, p. 527) 24 SHVAT: TOTAL G-DLY REVELATION IN THE FUTURE TO 21 SHVAT: “ALL THE HONOR OF THE KING’S DAUGHTER WHO COME IS WITHIN” IN A DIFFERENT MANNER THAN OUR TIMES The Midrash states that in the time of the Redemption, if a person goes to pick off a fig on Shabbos, the fig tree will scream “Old men and women shall yet sit in the streets of out: “Today is Shabbos!” Yerushalayim.” (Zecharia 8:4) The reason for this is that in the time of the Redemption, “There shall again be heard in the cities of Yehuda and in there will be a total G-dly revelation, and the entire Creation will the streets of Yerushalayim, etc., the voice of a bride” feel the absolute reality of G-d. (Yirmiyahu 33:10-11) The world itself – even the inanimate and vegetative – will Here, this matter seems to be in contradiction to “All honor feel that there is nothing in the world except G-d. [awaits] the King’s daughter who is within” (T’hillim 45:14). (Likkutei Sichos, Vol. 11) PEIF@ERP GATHERINGGATHERING SOULSSOULS ININ AMHERSTAMHERST By Nosson Avrohom

As you exit the highway and apparent wherever you turn. help us find the Chabad house, he approach Amherst in Western Ducks and geese paddle about stopped traffic and went out of his Massachusetts you are struck with peacefully and here and there local way to help us. a picturesque view with trees and youth can be seen on boats. The No wonder then that the meadows on either side. The locals, like the scenery, are shliach in Amherst, Rabbi Chaim wooden houses are painted peaceful, and they smile a lot. Adelman, came up with the idea to different colors and lakes are When we asked a policeman to found a Chassidic farming

 1ES>Q #'1 +-1&' !& Amherst is a small, charming town in Massachusetts. Most of the population is comprised of students who attend the three universities there. People are liberal in outlook, though they aren’t particularly tolerant of religion and faith. * Rabbi Chaim Adelman came to the Chabad House about twenty years ago and now, a number of his mekuravim are themselves shluchim.

community there. “The plan hasn’t THE ALTERNATIVE down to the interview, we toured been realized,” R’ Adelman admits THAT JUDAISM OFFERS the Chabad house, which is located , “but it is a dream that has begun near the biggest university in the R’ Adelman divides his time to come true and with Hashem’s town. Rabbi Shachna Gottlieb, R’ between the university, where he help, will happen.” Adelman’s assistant, lives on the gives shiurim and has Shabbatons, first floor. The first floor is also and the community. Before we sat where the shul is. The shul’s

#'1 +-1&' !& 'PPRB  “Yiddishkait contains the take a bike trip from Toronto to “Yiddishkait ingredients for a happy life, and it Montreal. A trip like that takes a is this that gets a student involved long time, and we decided to take contains the in Torah, and Chassidus.” two weeks, and do some ingredients for a sightseeing. We loaded up our RABBI ADELMAN’S equipment and were on our way. happy life, and it STORY When we finished our trip in Montreal, I had to return to is this that gets a My mother’s family goes back Toronto to be a counselor in a to the Spanish Inquisition. They summer camp, while Simcha student involved eventually made it to Eretz Yisroel, continued on by himself to the and have been there for about six eastern part of Canada.. in Torah, and generations. She met my father in Unfortunately, soon after I left, he Chassidus.” Eretz Yisroel and emigrated was in an accident and was around the time of the War of hospitalized. We had no cell Independence to Canada, where phones back then and he couldn’t membership consists of community they got married. be in easy touch with me or his members, some of whom have Although they left Eretz family. Recovering in his hospital become full-fledged Chassidim. Yisroel, my father, Zev Yona a”h, room, Simcha began to think more R’ Adelman’s office is located was very involved in Israeli politics about Hashem. on the bottom floor. There is also and a staunch supporter of Prime Eventually Simcha recovered a room on that floor that is used Minister Menachem Begin and the and came home. He realized after for classes. This room is also Cherut party. He was an ardent the whole ordeal that it was slated to become the space for the Zionist. He later visited Eretz Judaism that he was seeking. His preschool, which Mrs. Adelman Yisroel many times and dedicated search for meaning took a serious runs. himself to support the building up turn. He knew what he was R’ Adelman gives many shiurim of Yehuda and Shomron. He was looking for now and that’s how he throughout the week on many very involved in the settlement of came to Chabad. topics. At the beginning of our Kfar Tapuach and with the We were in high school then, talk, he apologized for not being individuals who settled there. when, one day, I saw him wearing able to speak at length since he I was born and raised in tzitzis! Since we were (and still had to give a shiur in Chassidus to Montreal. Later we moved to are) very good friends, I began students in two hours. Toronto. Though my parents were asking him questions: What R’ Adelman is a big believer in not generally observant, I did changed? What are those strings? Torah being the way to forge attend the Adat Yisroel Jewish Day At one point he invited me to Chassidim: “If you want to make a School in Montreal, and I did participate in a Chassidic Song real change in someone, you have celebrate some holidays. My father Festival, held in one of the theater to instill Judaism, and you can only a”h had some background in halls in Toronto. I went and had a do that through Torah study.” Judaism, but I had very little great time, dancing to the music of Over the years of his shlichus, contact with him in my early years the young bearded chassidim. some students have become baalei since my parents separated when I It was at that event where I met t’shuva, including some who have was very young. When we moved the shliach Rabbi Yehoshua Laufer, opened Chabad Houses of their to Toronto, I attended public who is now on shlichus in Rhode own. When I express my school. In those years I had very Island. I had really enjoyed the amazement, R’ Adelman tries to little to do with Jewish traditions event and R’ Laufer took tone it down. He is a thoughtful and was basically like anybody advantage of my enthusiasm and shliach who puts an emphasis on else, with non-Jewish friends and said he would contact me to invite p’nimius and shies away from culture. me for Shabbos. A short while anything that smells of chitzonius. I have a good friend to this day later I spent Shabbos with the I asked R’ Adelman what is the by the name of Simcha Frankel, Oster family, some of whom are secret of his success with his whom I met in 7th grade. He is today, shluchim of the Rebbe. For students, many of whom have now on shlichus in Los Angeles. the first time in my life, I felt changed inside and out and have Like many kids our age, we something very special, something become Chassidim. He answered: decided to have an adventure and

 1ES>Q #'1 +-1&' !& I will never forget. ON THE WAY siddur given to me by Rabbi I had never seen such a TO LUBAVITCH Laufer, and learned Tanya weekly beautiful family scene! I had no in Toras Emes with Rabbi Shmuel Since I spoke and read Hebrew memory of my immediately family Rosenstein, then a bachur. well because of my mother and her ever sitting together like that. It Ohr Somayach’s opposition to family who had settled in Toronto, made a huge impression on me. Chassidus in general and Chabad I didn’t have to learn how to daven This is also the first time I heard in particular bothered me. One from a siddur or read Chumash, of the Rebbe. When I said to one time, when I spent Shabbos in and was able to easily fit into the of the children that I didn’t know Kfar Chabad, some of the shul experience. what a Rebbe was, he showed me a T’mimim gave me leaflets of After completion of high picture. Chassidus to bring back to my school, I went to Eretz Yisroel and I became the guest of other yeshiva. I felt a little learned in Ohr Somayach in Chabad families in Toronto during uncomfortable, but I decided to do Yerushalayim, a yeshiva for baalei the course of the next couple of it anyway. t’shuva. years and I saw the same amazing When I returned to Ohr I spent the end of 5735 and sight each time, with each family Somayach, I left the papers on the most of 5736 at this yeshiva while sitting down together at the bima in the beis midrash. When still keeping in contact with Shabbos table, singing niggunim, the rosh yeshiva saw the Rebbe’s Lubavitch, even though Ohr speaking about the previous week, sichos lying there, he was visibly Somayach was a Litvish-style and telling divrei Torah. upset. He immediately asked who yeshiva. I prayed from a Chabad had put them there. I went over to the rosh yeshiva and said it was me. He asked me why I had put them there, and I told him that I didn’t see a problem with doing so. His answer to me was that it was not their shita (approach). After my return to Canada, I was determined to attend a Chabad yeshiva, and I wanted to go to the regular yeshiva, not for baalei t’shuva. The shluchim gave me two options, either the yeshiva in Miami or in Seattle, Washington. I was accepted to Seattle and studied there for 5736- 5737. The year I went was the second year of the first k’vutza of bachurim from 770 to go there. They would switch every two years. That year, I learned a lot of Chassidus and a lot about the ways of Chassidus. The rebbeim and T’mimim taught me the true meaning of hiskashrus. They got me away from dealing with darkness and opened a window for me that let in the light. At the end of that year, instead of continuing in yeshiva and waiting for the next group to come Rabbi Adelman doing Mivtza T’fillin

#'1 +-1&' !& 'PPRB  was: It is very worthwhile. I conduct myself today. I write to “Even when I learned in kollel for almost two the Rebbe about my activities at more years and passed the tests for the Chabad House and address wrote reports to dayanus from Rabbi Piekarski a”h. them to the Rebbe in 770. The In 5743 we went on shlichus reports certainly get to where they the Rebbe about with our little daughter to need to go. my activities, I Richmond, Virginia. I was responsible for shiurim and general WITH STUDENTS programming. In 5747 I moved to never wrote them Most of the work in Amherst is Rhode Island with Rabbi Laufer, done with hundreds of Jewish primarily to teach at a day school in order to get a students who attend university. run by Rabbi Moshe Gurkov, in a Every Friday night, students response. A nearby town. In 5748 I began attend. There is davening and then working at this Chabad House in there is a Shabbos meal. The shliach writes Amherst. students listen to divrei Torah at because the Rebbe the seuda and just hang out. On WORKING AS A Shabbos day, there is a farbrengen wants him to DISCIPLINED SOLDIER after the davening, which is write. Whether the I asked R’ Adelman to tell me a attended by the Lubavitcher bit more about the two places families as well. Rebbe wants to where he served as a shliach before In-reach to students and coming to Amherst. He paused community takes place on a daily answer or not is and told me that he would rather basis, nearly around the clock. share his philosophy of shlichus. Throughout the week, R’ Adelman another story.” “During one of the farbrengens gives many shiurim at the Chabad in 770 the Rebbe explained how house and on campuses, with the from 770, I decided to go to Chassidim should conduct classes on Talmud and Tanya part Crown Heights with that group. I themselves when the Rebbe was of the curriculum at the university. experienced difficulty at first in not answering. If the one with the Likewise, before every holiday, he getting accepted into the yeshiva. question is a Tamim, he is has a shiur to explain the At that time there were very few supposed to ask the hanhala of his significance of the day. baalei t’shuva allowed in. Rabbi yeshiva. If he is asking about Rabbi Yosef Shachna Gottlieb Shneur Zalman Labkowski, then health, he should ask two doctors draws my attention to another the mashgiach in Chovevei Torah, who are close friends. If they aspect of the work with students – was greatly mekarev me. In him I disagree, then a third should be the popular Shabbatons that take saw a real Chassid and mekushar asked to decide, etc. If he is asking place monthly at the Chabad to the Rebbe, a tremendous role about something he wants to do, if house. In order to attract new model. We spent many hours it is a good thing, he should take students who haven’t been to discussing various subjects, mostly action and not wait for a response. shiurim or other events, the draw about avodas Hashem and That is how I do things. is a different cultural theme every personal matters. I convinced “Even when I wrote reports to Shabbaton. “Last week, it was Rabbi Labkowski to farbreng for the Rebbe about my activities, I Mexican and the time before it was the few baalei t’shuva. The first never wrote them in order to get a Hawaiian.” The Chabad house is time, he spoke in broken English, response. A shliach writes because decorated and the food is planned but after that we were able to the Rebbe wants him to write. accordingly. manage in Yiddish. After a year in Whether the Rebbe wants to “A shliach by the name of Adam Chovevei Torah and Ocean answer or not is another story. Stein studied at the university near Parkway, I made it to 770. “Similarly, when I went past the Chabad house for several In 5741, I got married and the Rebbe for dollars, I never took years. He was involved with Hillel learned in the kollel in Crown the Rebbe’s time with my personal at the University. Hillel has many Heights. After a year, I considered matters. Chassidim never were branches at universities around the studying dayanus, and when I mekushar to the Rebbe in order to country, but it is mostly associated wrote to the Rebbe the answer get anything special. That is how I with the Reform or Conservative

 1ES>Q #'1 +-1&' !& movements. Shabbos guest. He’s a charismatic Kfar Chabad. He studied there for “Adam quickly realized that and wonderful guy, and while his a few years. He then married and aside from fraternizing with Jewish peers made baby steps towards is now on shlichus at the SUNY students, he had not found what Judaism, Adam got very involved, campus at Stony Brook, where he he was looking for. After becoming very quickly. has been very successful and has acquainted with him, he began After he graduated, he decided his own baalei t’shuva. taking part in our activities. After a to go to Eretz Yisroel to yeshiva. “I “I’ll tell you another story. while, he became our regular recommended Ohr Tmimim in There is a woman who lives in Crown Heights who has a fine, Chassidishe family. Not many know why she celebrates her birthday on the second day of Pesach even though that is not the day she was born. “She was one of the editors university newspaper. A bachur who was working with me at that time invited her to come on Pesach. I can still remember the day we met in the Chabad House. “She enjoyed the meeting and began coming to us on Shabbos, becoming a regular participant. She later went on to study at Machon Chana. She celebrates the second day of Pesach to thank Hashem for acquainting her with the Rebbe and Chabad.” “I must mention the Gemara class. This year marks 18 years Rabbi Adelman (left) and Rabbi Gottlieb (right) since the shiur began. Aside from with one of the mekuravim in front of the Chabad house students, members of the community and mekuravim also attend. “We began with the tractate Brachos, completed tractate Shabbos, and now we are in Eruvin. We aren’t rushing and I want everybody to understand what we’re learning. I always tell them that if they continue to study with me they’ll live a long life until we finish Shas, perhaps another 70 years...”

THE REBBE SUPPORTS US Afterwards, I went upstairs to meet with R’ Gottlieb, who has been R’ Adelman’s right- hand man for the past six years. “My connection with Rabbi Adelman lighting the public menora

#'1 +-1&' !& 'PPRB  Massachusetts goes back further number of possibilities for organized a big event on campus than six years,” he said, and he shlichus. “I do a lot of fundraising and spent a fortune on it. He was invited me to join his family for for the Chabad house and I feel heartbroken when, a few days supper. “As a bachur I was a how the Rebbe is with us and before the event, hardly any tickets shliach in Rabbi Ciment’s yeshiva supports us. had been sold. He was at a loss as in Boston. Every year a group of “I’ll tell you something, the one to what to do. He didn’t care as bachurim from 770 went to the who started this Chabad house is much about the money as about yeshiva in Boston and in 5753, I Rabbi Yisroel Deren, who the chilul Lubavitch, when was one of the ten talmidim who relocated to Connecticut, after everybody would hear that the went there.” bringing R’ Adelman here. He told Chabad event was a failure. After he married, he had a me that when he started out, he “The event was scheduled for Sunday and the day before, on Shabbos, he stood near his window that overlooked the campus and FROM STUDENT TO SHLIACH asked Hashem for a miracle. Rabbi Gottlieb: In our k’hilla there is a Lubavitcher by the name of “It turned out to be a amazing R’ Aharon Yosef, who even as a child, searched for meaning in his life. success, with many people just He was born in Pennsylvania and although his family had no showing up without buying tickets connection to Judaism, he joined the Reform synagogue there and got in advance. very involved. “The Rebbe was aware of Rabbi His involvement in the Reform community did not end his search. Deren’s feelings, because after the When he was college age, he knew where he wanted to go - Hampshire event, Rabbi Deren’s mother College here in Amherst, a spiritual kind of place. The lecturers and reported to the Rebbe of the great students dress as they did in the sixties. There are no marks on tests success in Amherst with the because a mark is immoral and doesn’t tell you anything about the program. The Rebbe then said student … They have no rules and no laws. Many of the students are something like, ‘and Yisroel was so members or organizers of anarchist and leftist organizations. He worried...’” studied music there. One day, he came across a flyer from the Chabad house and he FROM THE SHLUCHA’S decided to come and check it out. That was the beginning of the end. He liked R’ Adelman and the shiurim that he gave and he became a PERSPECTIVE regular attendee. He met his wife at the Chabad house. She is also a At the end of the shiur, the musician and she became frum through Mrs. Adelman’s classes. He students went on their way and I learned for a long time at Rabbi Lipsker’s yeshiva in Seagate and then spoke with Mrs. Adelman about he married. her shlichus. In addition to the After he married, he did not want to leave Amherst for one of the preschool that she runs every Chabad communities. He moved to the town near us so he could still morning for the children of the take part in our activities. He regularly visits his old college where he Chabad community as well as gives classes on music but he includes Chassidic explanations on the other Jewish children, she is busy deep significance of music. preparing for Shabbatons, holiday Although he is not an official shliach, he does amazing work with programs, and giving shiurim on young people and he knows quite well what they are experiencing and an array of topics. She also makes what approach to use with them. He has a youthful energy and in time for conversations with addition to his university work he is also a teacher in the Conservative students who want her guidance. school in Northampton, MA. He has an excellent approach to his work During the summer, Mrs. Adelman with children and he is considered the best teacher in the school, runs a day camp for young despite being a Lubavitcher Chassid who looks the part. children. Lately, he has been appearing in a musical group. He writes the Mrs. Adelman has some special songs, full of Chassidishe content, and through song he is mekarev stories to tell but she emphasizes many people. At the Chabad house he is always the emcee at children’s that shlichus is not about miracles. rallies and he helps out a lot. “A few years ago, I gave a class That is the story of one student and baruch Hashem, there are many at the university, which I do every others like him. semester. There was a student who wanted to get more involved in

 1ES>Q #'1 +-1&' !& Jewish practice but struggled with kashrus. She couldn’t get kosher food on campus and she didn’t have the fortitude to go out and get kosher food for herself every day. “After the class, she was hungry, and she decided to go to a snack machine and buy something she liked even though she knew it had no hechsher. But to her surprise, she discovered that it had a hechsher after all. The company that produces it had apparently decided to get kosher supervision. “She saw this as Divine providence and that she was being guided to keep kashrus more zealously. She came to the Chabad house every Shabbos and Yom Tov for her meals and kept kosher the Rabbi Adelman with a frequent visitor of the Chabad house rest of the time too. She would take kosher products from us, she The following story took place good news from your whole kashered her kitchen in her with the Mrs. Adelman when she family.” Mrs. Adelman was not university room, and she enabled took a number of students to the sure what the Rebbe was referring other students to eat kosher too. Rebbe for dollars: to, and it was only when they got She ended up becoming a baalas After the students had gone by back to Amherst after the trip to t’shuva. She married and she lives the Rebbe and got dollars, Mrs. New York that the Rebbe’s bracha here and I am her children’s mora. Adelman was next in line. She became clear. “I’ll tell you another interesting didn’t say anything to the Rebbe, Mrs. Adelman’s mother in story. There was a student who but the Rebbe gave her an extra England had not been feeling well had a problem with one of her dollar and said, “You should hear and she had undergone some eyes. A doctor told her she had to medical tests. She called her have an operation. She had begun daughter to share her fears, hoping getting involved at the Chabad that when the results would come house around this time and when back, it would be good news. Mrs. she told me about her eye, we Adelman then understood why the decided to write to the Rebbe. The Rebbe had given her two dollars answer in the Igros Kodesh was and immediately reassured her amazing. mother that the Rebbe had blessed “The Rebbe wrote about the her that it would indeed be good operation that would take place at news and had even given her a the hospital, saying it should be dollar! Mrs. Adelman mailed the successful and refua shleima. Activities with children dollar to England and later they “She didn’t understand the heard that baruch Hashem, the test answer because the operation results were all fine! wasn’t going to be in a hospital. A Mrs. Adelman is a great few days later, when the doctor believer in being a good role recommended that she have the model. “Before we work on getting operation in a hospital, the mekuravim to act with Ahavas Rebbe’s answer was clear. She Yisroel and do mitzvos, we have to later married and lives in Crown set the example and then the Heights.” message penetrates that much

#'1 +-1&' !& 'PPRB  deeper.” “WHY IS A MECHITZA NEEDED IN SHUL?” GEULA AND MOSHIACH Rabbi Adelman: There is a prestigious women’s college in ARE PRIORITIES HERE Northampton called Smith College, where my wife was giving a class. One of her students eventually came to Chabad House for Shabbos, At the Chabad house of and was becoming more observant. She loved to study Chassidus, so Amherst, Geula and Moshiach are on many Shabbos afternoons we would study maamarim from Torah in the forefront, as the Rebbe told Ohr and Likkutei Torah. She would easily grasp the concepts and the shluchim at the last Kinus always had great questions. HaShluchim that he addressed – Since she was a feminist, she had questions like why is a mechitza that all aspects of shlichus need to needed in shul and why do women have to dress modestly. Hashem be permeated with kabbalas p’nei helped me and I had answers for her. Moshiach. Every question, even the hard ones, has an answer. If you study the “In all my classes and at all the Rebbe’s teachings, you can virtually answer any question there is. You farbrengens and events, we talk just have to keep on learning. about Moshiach and do things to A while after graduation from college, she finally decided to go to hasten the hisgalus. ‘Yechi’ is said Machon Chana. She is now married with a beautiful family. When after davening, and all the some of the observant students at Hillel wanted a rabbi, this couple was advertising we do emphasizes chosen and they now live here. Because of this connection, we have a Moshiach.” very friendly relationship with this group at Hillel. “How can we do otherwise?” asks R’ Adelman. “The Rebbe said explicitly that this is what he inform the shluchim of what the first steps in preparation for wants, that everything be Rebbe said. I have heard that there Moshiach’s arrival. Just picture the permeated with Moshiach and not are shluchim today who are Rebbe showing up and your to stop talking about it. How can a unaware of the content of Chayei mekuravim don’t know what’s shliach, who is supposed to be Sarah 5752. When one was asked happening. They will go to the battul to the meshaleiach and his about it, he said, “well, there are shliach and complain – why didn’t horaos, act otherwise? I many sichos said on Chayei Sarah, you give us the whole picture? remember, at the Kinus what’s so special about this “Of course, people need to live HaShluchim 5752, when the particular sicha?” more with Moshiach and Geula Rebbe said that “from this kinus a “Even if not all the people who and not suffice with proclamations. message must be given to the attend grasp, at first, the full You do this, the Rebbe says, by shluchim that we have to prepare meaning of Moshiach and the learning inyanei Moshiach and ourselves and others to greet Rebbe being Moshiach, over time Geula, and also by increasing one’s Moshiach in actuality.” I wondered however, the picture becomes performance of mitzvos for the why the Rebbe said we have to clearer, the same way it took time specific reason of bringing inform the shluchim if the for me. Even if they come only Moshiach. Our behavior has to be shluchim were all there at the once, at least they heard about such that those who see us, see farbrengen! It seems that the Moshiach and when the Rebbe people permeated with Moshiach, Rebbe can see everything, and reveals himself they will know and will therefore be affected by indeed nowadays we have to what’s going on. This is one of the it.”

 1ES>Q #'1 +-1&' !& JLPEF>@E DDBRI> THAT’S NO REASON TO GET EXCITED

By Rabbi Sholom Dovber HaLevi Wolpo Translated By Michoel Leib Dobry

in spreading Torah and Yiddishkait In response to requests by our throughout the world,” nevertheless, he is high and exalted beyond readers, we now present the next everyone else. segment from “V’Torah Yevakshu I have not the slightest doubt that if Rabbi Mazuz would see the MiPihu,” Rabbi Sholom Dovber original sources, he wouldn’t have added the words “r”l” (Heaven HaLevi Wolpo’s seifer on the Rebbe’s forefend). Furthermore, as a result of the handiwork of these spreaders teachings regarding Chabad of falsehoods, he was presented with things in a manner totally different chassidus, its approach to emuna, from what had been written. and its various customs. Getting to the heart of the matter, even given the erroneous quotation cited by Rabbi Mazuz – 2. THE TZADDIK IS UNIQUE IN THE I wrote that although the Rebbe that they write about the Rebbe that HIGHER AND LOWER REALMS, AND IS is the leader of the whole world, he is “the one and only in Heaven CALLED “ONE,” AS IS THE CREATOR nevertheless, he personally is alone, and on earth and in the four Rabbi Mazuz further writes: without anyone with whom he can directions of the world” – that is no “And then writing about him ‘the have a truly personal connection. As reason to get excited. For the Noam one and only in Heaven and on a comparison, I brought the Elimelech already wrote in Parshas earth and in the four directions of explanation in chassidus of the Chukas on the pasuk (BaMidbar the world’ (r”l).” difference between “Echad” and 19:2), “And they shall take for you”: The distinguished rabbi has “Yachid.” “Echad” (one) indicates “For the avodas matana (the Divine clearly been swayed by inaccurate that while there are seven heavens, service granted as a gift from On statements taken out of context, the earth, and four corners of the High) was given to the tzaddik to be publicized by those fighting against world, nevertheless, they are all ruler over ‘Elokim.’ G-d decrees and chassidus, and he never saw the nullified to G-dliness. Whereas, the tzaddik nullifies. In addition, the actual sources. The “quote,” as it “Yachid” (alone/unique/singular) tzaddik is granted the power to were, is from an article I wrote in represents a level totally higher than influence the whole world…and we Kfar Chabad Magazine, Issue 322, the worlds, where G-d is literally will be united with true and ultimate Shvat 29, 5748 (at the conclusion of alone; at the outset, the worlds have unity, and thus the tzaddik is the Shiva for the Rebbetzin Chaya no existence at this level (as is compared to the Creator, Who is Mushka, of blessed memory), where explained in Tanya, Shaar HaYichud unique in the higher and lower I described the fact that after the V’HaEmuna, Chapter 7, on the realms…and he attains true unity, Rebbetzin’s passing, the Rebbe shlita concept of “Yichuda Ilaa (Higher and he is also called ‘echad’ remained alone in the world, without Unity) and “Yichuda Tataa (Lower (one).” anyone with whom he could Unity)). Similarly, while the Rebbe These are the words quoted, as it converse. is “the source of millions of activities were, in the name of Lubavitch.

#'1 +-1&' !& 'PPRB  MOLCFIB HEALING BODY AND SOUL

By Nosson Avrohom

pictures of the Rebbe alongside He was only eight years old when he did pictures of himself with patients. his first medical procedure. As a soldier, Dr. Navaro is a man in his fifties who defines his treatment process as he saw miracles and was saved diagnosing and integrating the healing of body and soul. Many of miraculously. * He has studied Bio- his patients are surprised that a diagnosis of the soul reveals the Energy, Naturopathy, nutrition, yoga, problems of the body, leading to identifying the proper treatment. homeopathy as well as modern “Today, having learned a bit of medicine. His life changed when he Chassidus, I understand that this medical approach is sourced in walked into the yeshiva in Ramat Aviv. Chassidus, which relates man’s physical condition with his spiritual * The fascinating story of Dr. Moshe state, the body and the neshama, unlike modern medicine which Navaro, who combines various medical separates the two.” Navaro treats all kinds of pain: modalities while spreading Judaism, back pain, slipped discs, knee Chassidus, and the B’suras HaGeula. surgery, migraines, tension, insomnia, problems of atrophy, failing vision, high or low blood It wasn’t easy catching Dr. medicine hasn’t resolved. pressure, diabetes, hormonal Moshe Navaro for an interview. He When looking at Dr. Navaro, it’s problems and more. His medical divides his time between his clinic in hard to believe that just eight years approach, as he defines it, is a Tzfas, where he also lives, and ago he was on a search for meaning combination of the guidelines of the another clinic he has in Bat-Yam. in life. After many failed attempts, he Rambam and complementary Among other things, he gives classes finally found meaning when he medicine, a combination, not a focus on medicine in Tzfas and on discovered the Chabad yeshiva in on one type of healing. According to Chassidus to his patients, most of Ramat Aviv, not far from his clinic. Dr. Navaro, every medical approach whom are not religious. It was only when he began to drink has advantages and disadvantages Hundreds of people have been from the wellspring of the teachings and there is no reason not to use the his patients and they range from of Chassidus, particularly the advantages of each approach. In Admurim and famous rabbanim to Rebbe’s teachings, that he began to medical terminology he is called “a members of the Lubavitch feel the wholeness in his medical multifaceted diagnostician and community in Tzfas and Jews from work and to realize where the healer.” the center of the country. They seek medical approaches that he uses His knowledge includes his help in solving their medical come from. Now Navaro has a full homeopathy, naturopathy, herbal problems, problems that modern beard and his room is graced with medicine, acupuncture, Bach flower

 1ES>Q #'1 +-1&' !& As a member of the Beitar movement in those years, Navaro and his friends were sworn in on a loaded pistol. Stories of the bravery of the underground Etzel movement, as they contended with the defeatism of the Hagana, were daily fare. “My entire childhood was based on the ideology of Beitar. I regularly went on trips that they organized and attended parties and meetings where we swore to defend Eretz Yisroel at all costs. “In 5725/1965 my brothers and I made aliya. At that time I read the Tanach a lot. As a boy I read a lot of Tanach and while my friends played, I would fall asleep with a Tanach in my hand.” When Navaro looks back, he recalls an incident from long ago, when he was just eight years old. He believes that this foreshadowed his future medical career: “The family went on an outing to a secluded island in Turkey. We began to fish and the hook on my brother’s fishing rod got caught in his ankle, piercing right through to the other side. He screamed in pain, but there was no doctor around. “Without thinking about it much, I gently removed the hook with my penknife. After the complicated procedure, my grandmother hugged me and said, ‘You will be a doctor.’” remedies, healing massage, deep Beitar movement, which was In Turkey, Moshe had a deep lymphatic massage, Shiatsu, Bio- founded by Menachem Begin. feeling for religion, but like many Energy, proper nutrition, analysis of “I loved to hear stories about the others, once he arrived in Eretz the palm, nails, tongue, face, and history of the Jewish people, the Yisroel he began a significant eyes, specializing in personalized history of Jews in Turkey and the spiritual descent. diagnoses. He is also expert in longing to go to Eretz Yisroel and to “One time I went to shul and identifying latent problems that have settle there. My maternal was very disappointed. The chazan yet to manifest in the body. “The grandfather was Rabbi Abuhav, a swallowed the words and he did not Rambam wrote primarily about the respected figure in Turkey. My use the piyutim (liturgical songs) principles of treatment and less grandfather was also someone who that I was used to from Turkey. about how to treat, and that is how I sat and learned so in my childhood I Regarding Judaism as community- go about healing people.” absorbed strong values about Jewish centered and associated with a shul, faith. Since I can remember, I it’s no wonder that my CHILDHOOD IN TURKEY wasn’t satisfied with what I heard or disappointment led me to decide not learned but I was always curious to to go to shul anymore.” Moshe Navaro grew up in Izmir, know what lay beyond what I had If that wasn’t enough, Navaro Turkey. Like his other Jewish grasped.” was also terribly disillusioned by the friends, he was immersed in the

#'1 +-1&' !& 'PPRB  Zionist movement he had so exposed in our turrets as we faced other troops preferred going around admired. In Eretz Yisroel he realized the vast array of Egyptian artillery. us so as not to cross near us on their that everything he had been taught “Our brigade was under artillery way to the Sinai Peninsula. It was in Turkey was false. “I became a fire all hours of the day and night. only later on that we found out that ‘free man’ and spent nearly every Not only were we outnumbered by an Egyptian officer had managed to day on sports and working out.” the large Egyptian forces, but after a approach us and from a burned out long and exhausting day in which we tank near us he directed the MIRACLES BEFORE shot endless shells, we began to Egyptian artillery to our location. MY VERY EYES discover problems with some of the “When I remember the war, I tanks. Some of them even stopped can’t help but be moved by the When Moshe became of age, he working altogether. miracles we saw. Back then, in the was drafted into the armored corps. “I’ll never forget those critical heat and chaos of battle, we had no His spiritual decline only intensified. hours when we ran from place to time to think about anything. Senior officers, who later evaluated the performance in our sector, admitted that the fact that our troop had so few losses was an outright miracle. “One day, a piece of shrapnel fell near me but I wasn’t hurt since it had already lost its momentum. “In preparation for our push through to the Suez Canal, we were attached to a first thrust armored force. That day there was the biggest air battle the area had ever seen. We were supposed to be part of the penetration team to cross the Canal, but at the last minute the troop deputy commander told us to retreat because it was too dangerous. We saw that this decision was a big miracle because if we had gone through there, we would have Moshe Navaro in his childhood with his family in Turkey walked right into a massive battery of missiles that that the Egyptians hid there. In the end, the air force Whatever remnants of Judaism he place in the attempt to fight while spotted it and demolished it.” had held on to before, disappeared simultaneously trying to repair the Navaro fought for half a year in in the army. malfunctioning tanks. Every tank the Sinai Peninsula and saw open The turning point began with the was vital. miracles. Many shells fell near him or Yom Kippur War. Moshe fought in “Not knowing what was going on exploded but he remained unscathed the war on the front lines and he at the other fronts weighed heavily by the shrapnel or else they saw open miracles. on us. The great confusion did not miraculously turned out to be duds. “If you did not actively let up. “Two years ago I was a guest of participate in that war, you will “One day, Egyptian commandos the mashgiach of the Chabad yeshiva never understand the open miracles penetrated our perimeter and it was in Tzfas, Rabbi Asher Gershowitz, we had at that time. When the war only by a miracle that we managed and as we spoke I told him about the broke out, we went to the Suez to discover them in time. The open miracles I experienced in the Canal area with tanks, since there Egyptian shells fell near us, missed Yom Kippur War. He told me about weren’t enough trucks to take us. It us, and caused hardly any losses. It the spiritual preparations that the took three days to get there. On the reached the point that throughout Rebbe made before the war, which front, we quickly grasped the the sector they knew that we were people did not understand until the situation. It was we, the few, against the troop most bombarded and the war broke out. the many. We were practically

 1ES>Q #'1 +-1&' !& “I first encountered Chabad not moved when I opened the bag and Sholom in Bat-Yam. just eight years ago but well before found a Chabad siddur.” When Rabbi Bar Sholom got up that, during the Yom Kippur War, to the portions of the Gemara that when Lubavitcher Chassidim came WHAT I SAW FROM speak about foods that are good for to us with great mesirus nefesh and THE CLINIC WINDOW your health as well as those that are enabled us to do mitzvos. I looked at harmful, he quoted a lot from the them with open admiration each After the war, Navaro davened Rambam on medical matters. This time I encountered them. One time, three times a day for a long time. He stuck with Navaro more than other I even got a tallis and t’fillin from also began to keep Shabbos. A good topics they learned. them and I put them on until the friend who had become a baal “I really liked the Rambam’s end of the war. A few years ago, my t’shuva was the catalyst that led him approach, which is about preventive mother passed away and I found the back to his traditions. For a year and medicine. I was always interested in t’fillin in her house. I was very a half he attended Gemara and medicine but I had never reached halacha classes given by Rabbi Bar the point where I studied it in a systematic way. “I was called to the Reserves, where I experienced a minor medical problem. When I spoke with our medic, I told him about the Rambam’s approach and he mocked it. His mockery upset me because I knew that conventional medicine had its drawbacks and was far from perfect. “Today, more and more doctors realize that we have to combine the two approaches, which is called complementary medicine, but at that time, the ignorance about alternative medicine was enormous and big doctors laughed at it.” Dr. Navaro became more involved in natural and alternative medicine, studying about Bio- Energy, Naturopathy, and nutrition. For over twenty years he threw himself into these studies. He even went to Canada for a year in order to study yoga, which earned him a doctorate. When he returned to Eretz Yisroel he studied homeopathy for three years and in order to round out his expertise, he studied modern medicine in Tel HaShomer for a year. “The more I delved into medicine, the more my renewed connection to Judaism waned.” When he finished his studies, he opened a clinic in Tel Aviv. Many people went to him, for these were the early years when people realized that being treated by alternative

#'1 +-1&' !& 'PPRB  medicine was not esoteric but neighborhood, which seemingly answer I opened to in the Igros something good and beneficial. represents “progress” and freedom Kodesh amazed me. The letter was “It’s interesting that I just now from Judaism, he would once again written to a doctor and the Rebbe remember that from the window of reconnect with his traditions. told him that even though the my clinic I would see a large picture One day he found himself Rambam, in his time, was not of the Rebbe on one of the buildings standing in the Chabad yeshiva of understood, and some people even and I often loved to sit there and Ramat Aviv. Even now, he doesn’t persecuted him for his views, his look at the Rebbe’s face.” know what brought him there. In faith stood him by. The Rebbe went those few minutes he realized that on to say – you are a doctor of the THE YESHIVA his long search for meaning had Chabad family and you should have IN RAMAT AVIV come to an end. much success. “I quickly realized that this is “That answer accompanies me Despite Navaro’s spiritual what I had being looking for all my constantly in my work.” decline, he did not lose his basic life. It’s hard to explain it but that is Jewish beliefs. Those who know him what I felt. know that truth is all-important to HEALING THE SOUL “The special atmosphere of the AND BODY him. The following episode yeshiva as well as the shiurim on illustrates this point: Chassidus that I heard later on, Dr. Navaro says that since he “I am not a mystic but a rational, spoke to me, and I began to visit the became a Chassid and began logical person. Baruch Hashem, with yeshiva every day. I remember that learning Chassidus and the Rebbe’s brachos I almost always when I was learning Tanya with one understanding the depths within diagnose the source of my patients’ of the bachurim before Shacharis I medicine, he sees more and more problems and provide them with the cried. My chavrusa did not siyata d’Shmaya (Heavenly proper treatment. When I discover understand why, but the feeling I assistance). that it is something minor, I don’t had was that of a son meeting his “I am not a mystic,” he rush to provide a diagnosis and father after many decades. reiterates. “Medicine is not treatment. “Before I walked into the yeshiva mysticism and neither is natural “The first day we opened the I had tried keeping some mitzvos medicine, but you can see that a clinic in Ramat Gan, we announced that I remembered from my parents’ person who is a believer can emerge that whoever wanted to, could be home and it was difficult, but after I from difficult situations more diagnosed for free. Lots of people learned Chassidus and understood quickly than someone who lacks came and they all had assorted what a Rebbe is and what he does in faith.” medical problems. Among them was this world, I simply had to keep Navaro is of the sort of doctor a woman whom I examined without mitzvos!” who doesn’t go by the book. He finding any problem. I told her that After a while, Dr. Navaro left his diagnoses the patient, asks for she was healthy. She exclaimed, work in the clinic and, despite his Divine assistance, and prescribes the ‘You’re a real doctor. I know that age, he went to yeshiva to learn. best treatment for the condition I’m healthy and I came here only to Later on, he even went to 770 for a from all the approaches he has see whether you would do as long period of time. When he studied. In the past, he admits, it doctors do and give me a returned to Eretz Yisroel, he took him much more time to match prescription, even if I had no changed his way of dress and solutions to problems. Today, he problem.’ became a Chassid all the way. With feels that the Rebbe’s bracha is “I’m a big believer that even the Rebbe’s bracha he has combined always with him and he sees when someone needs to take life in the Chabad community and blessings in his work. The number medication, the goal is to become his work in helping people with his of people who seek his professional stronger from it and not to become medical expertise. help has only grown. addicted or dependent on it. It’s all “When I went to learn in the “When someone comes to me in the mind. If you fortify yourself yeshiva in Ramat Aviv, I treated with headaches or digestive spiritually, you will succeed!” some bachurim, though some made problems, I first check to see A little less than ten years ago, a fun of it. I wrote to the Rebbe and whether it is a physiological friend of Dr. Navaro opened a large asked whether my involvement with problem. If I find that the body has a clinic in Ramat Aviv. He got Dr. natural medicine was in problem with toxins, I look to see Navaro to join him. Dr. Navaro had contradiction to Judaism. The where they are coming from. It’s no no idea that in this elitist big deal to find a symptom and to

 1ES>Q #'1 +-1&' !& mystic but at the same time, you can’t help but see that the combination of strong faith plus the Rebbe’s brachos help the patient heal faster. Chassidim who are not involved in healing, don’t know how many secrets of healing the Rebbe revealed, things that only today are beginning to be written up in articles on medicine. “The Rebbe spoke often about positive thinking, about trust and faith as things that help healing. Many medical researchers have written about this lately and that is just one example on a general level. If you study the Igros Kodesh you will read hundreds of times how the Rebbe gets into the details of Dr. Moshe Navaro in his clinic in Bat Yam complicated medical problems and provides amazing solutions.” provide a medicine that will suppress head. it; the trick is to find the source of “The bottom line was that it was HISKASHRUS the problem and treat it at its source highly effective and after a while, she TO THE REBBE so it doesn’t return.” stopped taking medicine altogether When I ask Dr. Navaro to give and her mental and physical health Dr. Navaro is very conscious of me an example of the siyata greatly improved. After she how the medical field enables him to d’Shmaya that he has experienced, recovered, she told me that she had be mekarev Jews to the Rebbe and he tells me this: opened to four letters from the Judaism. He often suggests to his “A woman came with a very Rebbe in the Igros Kodesh, and in patients that they write to the Rebbe complicated problem. When she one of them, the Rebbe wrote that in order to get proven spiritual help. came to me she was already taking she should go to a doctor who used “In my work I often see miracles, close to twenty different kinds of the Rambam’s approach, which thanks to the brachos that people medication that doctors had draws the connection between receive from the Rebbe in the Igros prescribed for her, and the physical problems and those of the Kodesh.” medications themselves were soul. The best part, in Dr. Navaro’s creating additional problems. The “This letter excited me very view, is that by fulfilling the Rebbe’s woman was in a negative frame of much. She herself did not know that instructions one cannot lose out. He mind and whatever treatment I the focus of my treatment is the spent several months in 770 and suggested, she rejected. I was approach of the Rambam. The when he thought about returning to thinking of giving up when I decided feeling I suddenly felt while seeing Eretz Yisroel to his patients, the I was going to help her, no matter her was that I had to help her, as answer he opened to was to stay what. well as the fact that I suddenly where he was. For a moment he was “I suddenly remembered a type remembered the thing that helped afraid that he would lose his patients of treatment that I had forgotten her – siyata d’Shmaya. but he strengthened his trust in about. I had never prescribed it, yet “Often, couples who don’t have Hashem. I decided that I would recommend it children come to me and I have In the end, he profited spiritually in her case. I prayed that it would suggested a certain treatment that is by being in Beis Chayeinu, and he help her. When she left the room, I not medically logical, yet with the did not lose out materially. When his didn’t see any more patients for a Rebbe’s brachos in the Igros Kodesh, many patients heard that he was while; I spent the time trying to I have helped people have children.” back in Eretz Yisroel, most of them figure out why this particular Dr. Navaro repeatedly went back to him and he also gained medication had popped into my emphasized: “I am far from being a new patients. When I asked Dr. Navaro about

#'1 +-1&' !& 'PPRB  patients who had answers of advice an idea of how to treat his problem. or brachos from the Rebbe, he I gave him specific nutritional smiled and said: “A few months ago, guidelines and only then felt calmer a young man came to me with a about his trip. stomach problem that caused him “Things like this happen often. severe mood swings. I examined him You have to know that you cannot and found the source of the separate between ruchnius and problem. He told me that in another gashmius, and vice versa. It’s all three days he was going to fly to Hashem’s world and it’s all South America, where he was going connected. He recently called me to be appointed a deputy and I was so happy to hear that his ambassador. problem vanished and he is faithful “I didn’t find a definite treatment to his commitment to put t’fillin on for his problem but I gave him every day.” something I thought would help. At the same time, I was convinced that DAYS OF GEULA he could not go in his condition. I AND REFUA had a strong feeling that I had to look out for his welfare. Many Jews who are treated by Dr. Navaro learn about the Rebbe “I called him the next morning Rebbe explained the importance of and the B’suras HaGeula. and asked him to delay his flight for putting on t’fillin. The young man “I feel that we are living in the the meantime. I connected him with was taken aback and he said that a atmosphere of Geula; it’s not merely Rabbi Schwartz from the yeshiva in month before he had gotten t’fillin a hope or goal. If you live with the Ramat Aviv and asked him to go to from a Chabad Chassid but hadn’t Rebbe’s sichos and open your eyes the yeshiva and meet with him and put them on. Now he saw the as the Rebbe said to do, you can see write about his problem to the Rebbe’s answer as a miracle and the Geula now. We have to try and Rebbe. He took me seriously and resolved not to miss a day without think positively and understand that went that same day to the yeshiva t’fillin. all problems are the last gasps of and wrote a letter to the Rebbe. “When he called me, all excited galus.” “In the answer he opened to, the by the Rebbe’s letter, I suddenly had

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 1ES>Q #'1 +-1&' !& PQLOFBP THE SH’CHINA SPEAKS FROM HIS THROAT

Stories that were told during the Shiva A SCHNEERSOHN BRAIN The sister of Rabbi R.B.S. after the passing of Rabbi Moshe Schneersohn, the son-in-law of the Av Beis Din of Tchebin, went to the Ashkenazi a”h, on 23 Teives last year. Rebbe when she was quite elderly. She told the Rebbe that she felt that her mind was impaired. The Ramle. Rabbi Garelik took a taxi CHECK THE YICHUS Rebbe said, “A Schneersohn brain to meet the bachur’s mother. After There was a bachur in a is never impaired.” Litvishe yeshiva who was a serious a brief conversation, it turned out that although her husband and talmid. He had a Lubavitcher TREATING FAMILY friend. When the Litvishe bachur father were Jewish, her mother became engaged, his Lubavitcher was not Jewish! DIFFERENTLY friend suggested that he write to A Lubavitcher whose family was the Rebbe and ask him for a THE LEV SIMCHA Lubavitch back in Russia, who bracha for the shidduch. ROSE FROM HIS SEAT visited the Rebbe for the first time after getting out of Russia, felt At first he refused, seeing no R’ Fishel Henna, a Gerrer badly that the Rebbe did not show point in doing so, but after his Chassid, related that he met the him any signs of closeness or friend pressured him, he agreed to Rebbe and after introducing personal attention. Others, who have his friend write the letter for himself, the Rebbe said that he were not of Lubavitch stock, were him. The Rebbe’s answer was: had a book from his father or treated as special. check the yichus (ancestry) of the grandfather. R’ Fishel said that it When he returned to Eretz chassan’s mother. This was quite a was his grandfather’s. Then the Yisroel, he complained to Rabbi shocking answer. Rebbe said he should give regards Moshe Ashkenazi. R’ Moshe said: The Lubavitcher told his friend to the Gerrer Rebbe, the Lev When guests arrive, you honor the Rebbe’s answer and of course Simcha. them and go all out for them. he laughed, but the Lubavitcher At the farbrengen that Family is not treated like guests. took him to Rabbi Garelik a”h, the followed, as soon as R’ Fishel This made the man feel much rav of Kfar Chabad. The rav asked walked in, the Rebbe asked him to better. him what his parents’ names were. say l’chaim. The names sounded Jewish and Afterwards, when he went to everything seemed to be fine, but the Lev Simcha and gave him the HE DEFENDED HIMSELF Rabbi Garelik asked to see his Rebbe’s regards, the Lev Simcha The Rebbe demanded from parents. rose a little from his seat. Dovid Yellin to add certain things The bachur said he couldn’t in his religious observance and because his parents lived in Yellin defended himself. The Rebbe

#'1 +-1&' !& 'PPRB  since he did not remember the She was in Eretz Yisroel and When guests bracha, perhaps the Rebbe could she answered that she agreed in give it to him in writing. principle, but since her father had arrive, you honor The Rebbe said that during told her to be in Eretz Yisroel, if he yechidus, the Sh’china speaks, etc., came to Eretz Yisroel she would them and go all and afterwards, he himself doesn’t marry him. out for them. know what he said. When this was related to the Rebbe, he said that he had not Family is not MIND RULING heard this from the Rebbe Rayatz, THE HEART but if it was true, it was breitkait treated like on her part to say that. Rabbi Dovid Tzvi (Radatz) guests. Chein was a genius. When he heard that his son, R’ Menachem HE WILL HAVE SONS A Chassid who was of the great said that Rabbi Levi Yitzchok of Mendel had been killed al kiddush Chassidim of the Alter Rebbe had a Berditchev defended everybody but Hashem, he did not cry because it son who died and he was when it came to himself, he only was Shabbos. One of his heartbroken over this. Many people made demands and did not defend daughters, however, did cry. He tried to console him but were himself. told her that the mind ought to rule the heart. On Motzaei Shabbos, unsuccessful. The Alter Rebbe though, he fainted. himself tried to console him but the BUSY WITH Chassid refused to be consoled. THE YAHRTZAIT Then the Alter Rebbe saw a FROM SANDEK little girl and asked: Who is she? The Admur, Rabbi Moshe TO CHUPPA Twersky of Rachmastrivka a”h, They told him that she was the went to the United States for the A Boyaner Chassid was very daughter of this Chassid. The Alter wedding of his son, R’ Nachman close to Rashag (the Rebbe’s Rebbe said that great sons would Yosef. He went to Gan Eden brother-in-law) and greatly descend from her, and this greatly HaTachton with the chassan to get respected him. At his son’s bris, he comforted the Chassid. Indeed, the the Rebbe’s Siddur and a bracha gave Rashag sandakaus (the honor Toras Chesed and his brother, who before the wedding. of holding the baby during the was even greater than him, This was 7 Shevat and the bris). Many years later, Rashag was descended from her. Rebbe said that he wasn’t receiving sick and was in a coma for a long people since he was busy with the time. THE RAV WHO DID NOT yahrtzait. This Chassid told the Rebbe that since Rashag had been the WANT TO FORGIVE sandek for his son and his son was The brother of R’ Sholom Ber AT THE RIGHT TIME getting married, he wanted Rashag Barisover, who was not a Chassid, R’ Zalman Gurary went to the to be at the chuppa. The Rebbe was chosen to be the rav of a Rebbe for a yechidus at a time that said: of course, of course. Chassidic town. He agreed to teach was not designated for it. He Rashag recovered and attended Likkutei Torah to the public. knocked on the door and entered the chuppa. Afterwards, he became After some time, he officiated at the Rebbe’s room. sick again and passed away. the marriage of a chassan where The Rebbe told him: When you the match was somewhat enter at the wrong time, you don’t THE BREITKAIT questionable, and one of the town’s meet the person you want to see. residents spoke against the rav. OF THE REBBETZIN The rav heard about this and was THE SH’CHINA TALKING When the Tzemach Tzedek was furious and stopped teaching widowed after Rebbetzin Chaya Likkutei Torah. Rabbi Moshe Ashkenazi had a Mushka passed away, he sent a The Chassid who spoke against yechidus and the Rebbe gave him a message to his sister-in-law, him went and asked for long bracha which he did not Rebbetzin Menucha Rochel, asking forgiveness, but the rav refused to remember afterwards. He sent in a whether she would do a shidduch grant it. They went to the Tzemach note to the Rebbe requesting that with him. Tzedek who asked the rav to

 1ES>Q #'1 +-1&' !& forgive him, but he did not want to. Torah with the Rebbe. He heard A short while later he had the The Tzemach Tzedek said that that they sell the verse, “Ata opportunity to buy a building. He a similar thing had happened with Horeisa” and give it to the Rebbe. asked the Rebbe and the Rebbe the Alter Rebbe, and then too, the There were those who gave said he should buy it. Then he rav did not want to forgive. The whatever sum the Rebbe told them sold the building to a senior Alter Rebbe rebuked him but he did to give. The man decided to do citizens home and made a profit not forgive and he died within a this. of $300,000. He gave a tenth of short time. After Simchas Torah, he asked his earnings, $30,000, to the The rav heard this but still did the Rebbe how much he had to Rebbe. not forgive and he died a few days pay and the Rebbe asked for A year later, he bought the later. $30,000. The man was not that same verse on Simchas Torah and wealthy and he was afraid of what asked the Rebbe how much he SIMPLE FAITH OR A his wife would say. To his should pay. The Rebbe told him BUSINESS DECISION? pleasant surprise, his wife $18. He was taken aback by this encouraged him to try and obtain low number. The Rebbe explained A certain individual who was the money. that the first time, he acted out of close to Chabad spent Simchas simple faith, but this time, he had ulterior motives.

WHY DO I NEED THEM TO JUDGE ME? The Chassid, R’ Avrohom Zaltsman, one of the T’mimim who learned in Lubavitch, lived out his final years in Eretz Yisroel. He was a mashgiach in the kollel in Kfar Chabad. Rabbi Moshe Ashkenazi, who was a member of the kollel, once noticed that he looked downhearted and he asked him what happened. R’ Avrohom said he had yahrtzait for his wife. R’ Ashkenazi asked him: You are an old and Chassidishe Yid. How could you be so downhearted? The Chassid answered: On a yahrtzait, the neshama is judged and they are now certainly judging my wife. If they are judging my wife, then I am certainly there too. Why do I need to be judged? TEARS IN PRAYER When R’ Yisroel Noach Blinitzky was a bachur in Tomchei T’mimim in Lubavitch, he went to the Rebbe Rashab and complained that while he davened, he cried a lot and this disturbed his prayers. The Rebbe told him not to pay Rabbi Moshe Ashkenazi attention to that disturbance.

#'1 +-1&' !& 'PPRB  Another time, a different her illness and they wanted to call RUBISHOV bachur asked the Rebbe Rashab off the shidduch. The girl said that R’ Menachem Porush related the same question and the Rebbe since Rabbi and Rebbetzin that the Brisker Rav told him, that told him to go to an eye doctor. Ashkenazi were like her parents, when he pays a visit to the Rebbe she would do nothing without their Rayatz to ask him to influence ABSOLUTE TRUTH consent. Shazar to get the Israeli government Rabbi Ashkenazi went to the When Rabbi Nosson Ashkenazi to recognize Talmud Torahs and Rebbe Rayatz to ask him about this a”h was a bachur, the Rebbe told chadarim. The educational and about something else. During him to check his t’fillin. His establishment did not want to the war, a lot of money was sent t’fillin were checked and nothing recognize them as legitimate schools from the US to the talmidim of was found, but he refused to use and this caused many problems. yeshivos in Shanghai. The money them. R’ Porush told the Rebbe and the was sent to Switzerland and from They suggested that he tell the Rebbe told him to go to Shazar and there to Shanghai, to Rabbi Rebbe that nothing was found, tell him that the Rubishov of today Ashkenazi. This was dangerous and he said: Why should I tell the should not shame the Rubishov of since America was at war with Rebbe when it is clear that if the yesteryear, and he would understand Japan and if they discovered that Rebbe said something, it is (a reference to Shazar’s grandfather he was receiving money from the absolute truth? who had been a great Chassid). US, they would have killed him. After a number of R’ Porush told Shazar who Rabbi Ashkenazi was told not to examinations, and after scraping exerted pressure on Ben Gurion to recognize the Talmud Torahs and chadarim. The girl said that since Rabbi and A BLESSING AT AN Rebbetzin Ashkenazi were like her AUSPICIOUS TIME parents, she would do nothing without When he was a boy, Rabbi Nosson Ashkenazi went with his their consent. brother Rabbi Moshe Ashkenazi to buy bread at the grocery. An Egyptian plane flew overhead and the paint from the bayis, they give any of the tz’daka funds to the began bombing Tel Aviv (this was found a hole in the leather. talmidim of Tomchei T’mimim, but during the War of Independence). R’ he gave them money anyway, and Nosson began to stutter, in fright, HACHNASAS KALLA, he was being taken to a din Torah. until he couldn’t speak. A DIN TORAH, AND AN So he wanted to consult with the They consulted with doctors and AGENT’S FEE Rebbe about what to do about this. psychologists who sent him to a The Rebbe Rayatz sent him to Rabbi Meir Ashkenazi, the rav special kindergarten with special his son-in-law, Ramash (later to be of Shanghai, hosted refugees in his teachers, but it didn’t help. the Rebbe) and he told him – as far house including an orphan girl who R’ Pinyeh Altheus, who was as the shidduch, tell them that if was engaged to the son of R’ A. friendly with the father, Rabbi they call it off, you will not go to a Kotler, a great Torah figure from Moshe Ashkenazi, went to the Rebbe din Torah with them. As for the din Europe who escaped to America for Tishrei and he was asked to ask Torah, the Ramash asked him: Did (the son, R’ Shneur Kotler spent the Rebbe Rayatz for a bracha. R’ you take a fee as a middleman for the war years in Eretz Yisroel, then Altheus went to the Rebbe Erev Yom transferring the money? When Palestine). She became sick when Kippur, in the afternoon, which was Rabbi Ashkenazi said he had not, she arrived in Shanghai and Rabbi a special time for the Rebbe Rayatz the Ramash told him to say that the and Rebbetzin Ashkenazi took care when he sat at the table with a money that he deserved as the of her until she recovered. T’hillim, reciting it with great tears. middleman was the money he gave After the war, when she arrived R’ Pinye asked for a bracha for to the T’mimim. in America, the parents of the the child Nosson, and within a short In this way, all ended well. chassan told her that her time, he stopped stuttering. appearance had deteriorated due to

 1ES>Q #'1 +-1&' !& news DESTRUCTIVE FIRE AT NEFESH CHAYA – TOMCHEI T’MIMIM, KRIYOT

By C. Katz

“Sometimes there is a kitrug (din), sometimes it comes in fire, but afterwards, the midda of rachamim is even higher than the midda of chesed that was in the beginning.”

Just a week before the gala situation was to be optimistic that but afterwards, the midda of dinner marking 40 years of shlichus better times are in store. That is the rachamim is even higher than the of Rav Yigal Pizam and Mosdos message Beis Moshiach received in midda of chesed that was in the “Nefesh Chaya,” a fire completely speaking with HaRav Eitan Pizam, beginning.” destroyed the mosdos and several manager at the yeshiva and son of By Hashgacha Pratis, Rav Pizam adjoining rooms in Yeshiva Tomchei Rosh Yeshiva Yigal Pizam. continued, a gala dinner event was T’mimim – Kriyot. The yeshiva is in its 11th year, of planned for next Monday, the eve of Thank G-d no one was in the which six-and-a-half years have been Chaf-Beis Shvat, which marks the building when the fire broke out at this Haifa location. The building 20th yahrtzait of Rebbetzin Chaya around 3 a.m. this past Motzaei also includes a kollel, which was Mushka, z”l. The mosdos was one Shabbos in Kiryat Shmuel-Haifa, founded by Rav Pizam more than 20 of the first in the world to name but the damage was extensive. More years ago. Yeshiva records, kollel their outreach in honor of the than twenty years of records and records – all documents and papers Rebbetzin. papers, as well as everything in the – were lost in the fire as well as all If anything, the fire will not office, was turned into a melted, the office equipment – computers, damper the long-planned dinner twisted, pile of metal and ash. photocopier, desks, etc. Two pairs of gala, which organizers said will Several dormitory rooms of the t’fillin were also destroyed. continue as planned – with even yeshiva were also heavily damaged. “We wrote to the Rebbe and told more enthusiasm. The cause of the fire has not him what happened and the Rebbe “We call upon all those who feel been determined, but fire officials said in one sentence ‘Harchev picha they can contribute to the success of have so far ruled out arson and are va’amaleihu – open your mouth this evening, to call and reassure that looking toward something of an wide [in supplication] and I will fill they are coming,” said Rav Pizam. electrical nature as the cause. it.’ We shall overcome this and it’s “This is going to be the best way to The bachurim, who left the going to be better than before – show solidarity and help us to yeshiva for a home-Shabbat much better!” said Rav Eitan. recover from the damages, And even following the festive Yud Shvat “We know what the Tzemach more important, to help us continue farbrengen, were notified (as this Tzedek said in the name of the Alter the shlichus here and make it bigger story was going to print) to remain Rebbe – that things come from and wider.” home until environmental officials above in a seider of Following the fire, which left the yeshiva deem the building safe to reenter. chesed–din–rachamim, which means with a tremendous amount of monetary Despite the financial devastation, when something must come from damage, the administration is turning to for which there was no insurance, above, sometimes there is a kitrug all anash for assistance. Anyone willing the only Chassidic approach to the (din), sometimes it comes in fire, to assist should contact the yeshiva: 04-8725771.

42 18 Shvat 5768 BEISMOSHIACH