בס“ד Rosh Hashana Edition, 5771 - VOLUME 61

לע“נ משה חיים בן יונה ז“ל

לע“נ יצחק בן משה חיים ז“ל

לע“נ ביילא בת שלמה גרשון ז“ל

לע“נ ראסה בת משה יצחק ז“ל

לע“נ מאיר ניסן בן אברהם הלוי ז“ל

לע“נ פרידא לאה בת אריה דוד ז“ל

לע“נ רפאל צבי בן אריה ז“ל The 200 YEAR Chronicles Page 32

Perhaps things won’t ROSHwork out? HASHANAH 200 ANNIVERSARY EDITION

INSIDE

Everything Follows the Beginning ... 6 Rav Yaakov Meir Shechter, shlit”a Believing in Yourself 8 Rav Eliyahu Godlevsky shlit”a A Journey to the Tziyun of our holy Rebbe 10 Rav Eliezer Berland, Shlit”a “Whoever believes in me …” 12 Rav Nosson Liebermensh, Shlit”a Uman – the way to Eretz Yisroel 13 Rav Shmuel Stern, shilt"a “Gather and listen, O sons of Yaakov …” 14 Rav Shalom Arush Shlit”a Why We Travel to the Tzaddik 16 Rav Yitzchak Meir Morgenstern shlit”a Safeguards against Overload 19 Rav Lazer Brody Shlit”a The Secret of Emunas Chachamim 20 Rav Nissan David Kivak shlit”a Frequently Asked Questions 22 Rav Avrohom Yitzchok Kletzky shlit”a Halacha 28 Rav Shimon Anshin shlit”a The 200 Year Chronicles 32

5771 ROSH HASHANAH Our main avodah in days of Rosh Hashanah is to build the aspect of “Malchus”, which on a simple level means our realization that Hashem is the Master and King of the world. On a deeper level, Malchus denotes prayer, meaning that at this time we have an avodah of elevating our Tefilah. There are two aspects in Tefilah: Prayer which is on a lower level than the Torah, and subordinate to the Torah; and Tefilah which is really the same aspect as Torah, and in certain ways even higher. There is a Tefilah in which one prays for his material needs, for livelihood, children, health, etc. Such a prayer is lower and secondary to Torah. For sure, someone who davens for his material needs and is not at CONTACT US all thinking about Torah, such a Tefilah is certainly lacking. What type of life is it for someone who is not thinking about the We would Like to hear from you purpose? What enjoyment does Hashem To Subscribe To Our Weekly Publication have from such prayers which are only [email protected] concerned with material gains, which they To Sponsor Or Make a Donation [email protected] themselves might not be for the person’s For all other Information ultimate good? [email protected] However, if his intention is that he wants or call +972.52.769.4386 children, health, and livelihood in order to do Hashem’s Will, then there is satisfaction from his prayers. But such Tefilah is still lower than Torah, for the main thing is Torah, and he is praying for material needs in order “...Upon us has befallen divine to keep the Torah, meaning the Tefilah is mercy of levels beyond only secondary to Torah. comprehension to travel to the one who possesses intelligence But the perfect Tefilah would be when a supreme to any other, wisdom person davens for his spiritual needs. That incorporating all wisdoms, a all his prayers are that he should come to soul inclusive of all Three fear Hashem and to serve Him, and to Forefathers and all Seven actualize all the Torah that he learns. Such a Shepherds. A raging sea of Tefilah is equal, and in some ways above the mercy has suddenly burst Torah. For the most important thing in Torah forth, sweeping us to the is to live with Torah, and this is what he source of light, compassion and seeks through his prayer. teshuva; the source of kedusha This is what we are trying to accomplish on and tahara. We now stand Rosh Hashanah in elevating the Malchus. ready to immerse ourselves in We are trying to bring into the world that infinite waters of kedusha and everyone’s main Tefilah should only be to tahara that will renew every come closer to Hashem. part of our souls …” Based on Likutei Halachos, Hil’ Rosh Chodesh 5:3-5 Rav Eliezer Berland Shlit”a excerpt from page 10 FORWARD The declaration that was sounded, roughly two hundred years ago, by the great healer of souls continues to echo throughout the world. Even today, that very call is breaching new boundaries, landing upon fresh ears and penetrating the hardest and coarsest of hearts, arousing them from their slumber. Of all the Chaggim, our holy Rebbe chose for himself the day of judgment, the day which contains within it all that will unfold throughout the entire year, for the entire world and all that exists within it. On this awesome day the entire creation gathers under the sheltered wings of The Tzaddik who proclaimed: “My Rosh Hashanah is greater than everything!”, for it is this day, that the shepherd of the Jewish people received as a gift from Hashem. It is there, in Uman, that come together, all those who no single title can define and for whom the only place that can serve to unite them is that of the “E'ven Sh'siya (Foundation Stone) - the prehistoric foundation from which the world was drawn forth. Only there, by the Tzaddik, in whom all souls are incorporated, can so many people find their place; each one radiating such splendid grace, drawn from the radiant countenance of the true Tzaddik- the splendor and beauty of the generation. Just then, as the heart rejoices over the great merit of being part of the Tzaddik's following and of participating in sucha wondrous gathering, is aroused a yearning to know somewhat more of this amazing Tzaddik, to feel some connection to this awesome beauty, something tangible, to grab hold of a piece of his Torah and to connect to one of his teachings. Suddenly we understand that perhaps the Tzaddik was speaking to me- really to me. Surely the great healer intended his teachings for someone, that somebody should find in them respite from, and healing for, his ailments. Who is that 'someone' if not I, and if so, when will I finally know what is written in these books? When will I try one of his treatments? When will I too, find my path in the wondrous garden of the Tzaddik…? Our Rebbe once exclaimed: "Just the binding (of my books) alone, will be an obstacle." A binding serves to join together many things, but sometimes it also provides an obstacle; it may frighten, discourage or even push away. It is difficult enough to dedicate some time to learn, and then, with a book already in hand, quite often priceless time is wasted in flipping through the many pages in search of the required material, and once again, a precious opportunity wasted away. For this there is a solution- to take samples. Like a fabric store, in which an efficient salesman must provide an array of samples of each fabric and style. In this way, every customer can easily find what he desires. This is how the Rebbe defined the task of his greatest disciple, Reb Nosson- to arrange samples. This booklet, presented to you, is intended for all those searching to find the guidance and remedies devised by the great healer of souls. Within, we have gathered together teachings and ideas of the Rabbis and mentors of Breslov. We have tried to collect a wide range of styles so that each person may find the path most befitting him. Our holy Rebbe taught that the most vital of principles is Emunah (faith). Knowledge, understanding, learning and insight are all to be used for one purpose- to open the gates of Emunah. Fixed in the heart of every Jew is Emunah, an inseparable part of our being. Yet it can be that our Emunah may become concealed under layers of routine, hidden beneath a dark shadow of physicality. This is gallus (exile)- gallus of the soul. It is the Tzaddikim who toiled all their lives with complete self-sacrifice to implant Emunah in every person and in every part of creation, and the keys to the Gates of Emunah are hidden within their books. Yet each key on a bunch must be readily accessible; this is the aim of this booklet- 'Shaarei Emunah' (The Gates of Emunah). The teachings of our holy Rebbe contain within them the 'Ein Sof' (infinite), for every Jew to find his place, his personal gate, fitting for the root of his soul. This booklet is intended for anyone who is interested in finding the key to HIS gate of Emunah. This publication is presented to you by the Gates of Emunah Institute and follows a series of issues produced weekly in parallel with our parent publication Elah L’Trufa. Most of the divrei Torah contained herein are translated from the original Hebrew. It was with extreme trepidation that we ventured to translate from the Hebrew into English, but realized the need to present the Torah of Rebbe Nachman given over by many of the Gedolei Breslov today. As with any translation there are deficiencies with a potential for error, especially as it relates to the more esoteric concepts of our Holy Torah. We have done our utmost to remain faithful to the original text and expression of the Authors. There are no words to express our delight and gratitude to HaKadosh Baruch Hu for enabling us to present this second edition in expanded format in honor of Rosh Hashanah, the holy Kibbutz in Uman and the 200 year anniversary of the passing of Rebbe Nachman. Our very special heartfelt appreciation is expressed to all those who contributed in helping to bring this publication to fruition. To our dear readers, we would be delighted to have you continue with us throughout the coming year. You may sign up to join our list of subscribers by emailing [email protected] and receive our weekly publication by way of E-mail. Wishing you a good and blessing-filled year,

The Editors לע“נ משה חיים בן יונה ,ז“ל לע“נ יצחק בן משה חיים ,ז“ל לע“נ ביילא בת שלמה גרשון ,ז“ל לע“נ ראסה בת משה יצחק ,ז“ל לע“נ רחל בת ראסה ,ז“ל לע“נ מאיר ניסן בן אברהם הלוי ,ז“ל לע“נ רחל בת מאיר ניסן הלוי ,ז“ל לע“נ רפאל צבי בן אריה ,ז“ל לע“נ פרידא לאה בת אריה דוד ז“ל לע"נ גאלדא בת זאב ז“ל

אפרים בן שרה דבורה לרפואת פנחס חיים בן איטה ,לאה רבקה בת איטה, בניהם: לרפואת שלמה גרשון בן ביילה זאב, ישראל, נחמן, אהרן מרדכי לרפואת שלמה גרשון בן ביילה להצלחה ברוחניות וגשמיות לרפואת רבקה בת ראסה וכתיבה

לזווג הגון בקרוב שושנה בת שרה דבורה אלישבע חנה בת רבקה לאה ROSH HASHANA BY THE TZADDIK

The Rebbe teaches us in Likutei Moharan I: 211: The reason behind traveling to Tzaddikim for Rosh Hashanah is because the main way to sweeten judgment is through the holi- ness and purity of thought, which is their source. This is brought in the Zohar, “Everything is purified through thought”. It is im- possible to come to a pure mind without attachment to Tzaddikim as we find written, “And Moshe took the bones of Yosef.” Moshe is the aspect of the mind and Yosef is the aspect of Tzaddik. This means to say that there is no way to perfect the SHOFAR mind without attachment to the Tzaddikim. Rosh Hashanah is Rosh Hashanah is the first day of the Ten Days of the source of all the judgments for the whole year and we must Teshuvah. The principal way of teshuvah is in then purify the mind in order to sweeten them. For this reason being silent for the sake of Hashem, meaning that we travel to Tzaddikim, in order to merit holiness of thought. when one hears his humiliation and remains still Although the Rebbe never actually revealed what is really behind and silent. Through this one vanquishes the blood in the left cavity of the heart, which is the his request that we come to him for Rosh Hashanah, we do find dwelling of the Yetzer Hara. several lessons which he taught on the subject. One of them is Torah 211. (see above) This is the concept of the blowing of the Shofar, which is the aspect of fear and shame, and of In order to understand the deeper meaning of this Torah, let us voice without speech. We are so embarrassed see Sichos Haran 21. We find there that the Rebbe taught that on about our sins that we are unable to talk. This Rosh Hashanah it is necessary to be wise and to think only good idea is brought in Zohar, that one must come thoughts, that G-d should be good to us, etc. And it’s necessary to before Hashem as an animal for a sacrifice, and be joyful on Rosh Hashanah, etc say, “I have no mouth to answer up…” We find in Chassidic sources the concept that even though G-d At the beginning of the Teshuvah process, since knows exactly what our actions are, the judgment which is placed the kitrug is very great, it is impossible to speak in on us is based on the way we ourselves look at reality. If someone front of Hashem. This is because speech comes is overly harsh and critical, then he is dealt with such a way. This from the blood, and now the blood from the left side is in power. It is therefore impossible to may be what the Rebbe is trying to show us from the Zohar. All speak properly before Hashem. judgment actually takes place in the courtroom of our own minds. Therefore, in order to merit a sweeter year, we must make sure There are people who feel so far from Hashem, that the thoughts which occupy our minds are positive ones. We that when they arouse to start serving Hashem must be wise and think only how G-d will be good to us, etc. and to do Teshuvah, they feel that they have no way out. The only thing that they can do is to be However, Rosh Hashanah is a Yom Hadin, a day of strict judgment. silent and yearn for G-d, to scream out from the The deliberations which are going on in Shomayim have an affect depths of their hearts, like the sound of the on us down below; the accusations of the Satan echo in our Shofar. Through this, even someone who is very thoughts. How can we purify our minds of all this negativity? far can return and come close to Hashem, for He is full of mercy. Even if they are so far that they Those of us who are fortunate to study the works of Rebbe can’t even speak one proper sentence before Nachman know that the core of his teachings is the message of Him, even so, they are obligated not to give up, everlasting hope. No matter what situation one might find himself only to yearn for Hashem’s salvation. in, there is always a way for him to find G-d there and come close Therefore, on Rosh Hashanah, which is the to Him. Through studying Rebbe Nachman’s writings and especial- beginning of the days of Teshuvah, Hashem has ly those of his main disciple, Reb Noson, we come closer and clos- given us the advice to blow Shofar. This is the er to removing the critical and negative attitudes which have con- aspect of being silent before G-d, as a Shofar is taminated our souls, and to replace them with the correct and the aspect of voice without speech, calling out to positive awareness of the world. Hashem from the depths of the heart. Through The most important time for this is on Rosh H-shanah. It is there- this Hashem has mercy on him and merits him to Teshuvah. fore very important to come to the Tzaddik for Rosh Hashanah, because then is the most opportune time to internalize all that we Based on Hil’ Rosh Hashanah 4:2,4 have learnt throughout the year, and to renew ourselves for the coming year. 6 EVERYTHING FOLLOWS THE BEGINNING by Rav Yaakov Meir Shechter, shlit”a

“‘Be’reishis (In the Beginning) Elokim So is it with these mitzvos where a time secluded in his room, sometimes created…’ – Rabbi Yehuda Ben Sha- person separates the first of his pro- however he would open his door and lom said: for Yisroel (The Jewish Peo- duce, as the sages taught that when a go into the beis medrash where fear ple) who are called ‘reishis’, for the person goes down into his field and and awe would immediately fall upon Torah which is called ‘reishis’, for sees the first figs have begun to grow, all those who were present. he marks them and declares: “these Moshe who is called ‘reishis’, for chal- It once happened that he came into are Bikkurim”. This is also the case lah which is called ‘reishis’, for bikku- the beis medrash, found three of his with the mitzvah of challah where rim which is called ‘reishis’.” (Yalkut most brilliant Chassidim sitting there one separates the first of his food as Shimoni, Beraishis 2) and asked each one to tell him a the verse states: “the first of knead- This requires explanation. We can “good vort”. One of them began: ing you shall set aside challah as a understand that the world was creat- “And you shall know this day and re- portion”. ed for Yisroel who would fulfill the turn to your heart that Hashem is G-d Torah as well as in the merit of the This truly is the purpose of creation. in the Heavens and on the Earth be- unique Tzaddikim of the generations This can be likened to a father and low, there is nothing else” (Devarim who are the foundation of the world, son who are travelling in the desert 4,39). He explained that the phrase but the rest of the Medrash is truly and run out of food, the two continue “there is nothing else” means that wondrous. Of the many mitzvos of on their way in near starvation to the there is nothing else that needs to be the Torah why is it specifically these extent that they can almost no longer known in this world other than this, that are considered to be fitting for bare the suffering. When they finally since if one knows that “Hashem is G- the world to have been created in arrive at an inhabited destination the d in the Heavens and on the Earth their merit? father’s love for his son can now be below” then he has everything, for tested. If he first purchases bread for this is the general concept of the en- This can be understood based on his son and only afterwards for him- tire Torah. This too is the concept of what is taught in the holy books re- self, this is a clear sign that he loves Rosh Hashanah, to crown the Creator garding the verse “Sanctify to Me his son even more than himself. Thus, over the Heavens and the Earth. every firstborn …” (Shmos 13,2), that the main indication of this love is the the main sanctification that is re- About this day it says: “Go, eat rich reishis (beginning) - who will he feed quired in any given matter is in its in- foods and drink sweet beverages … first. This is the power of the reishis, ception. When the beginning is as it for today is sacred to our Master, do to uncover and reveal the deepest should be then everything follows in not be sad; the joy of Hashem is your truth. its path. An example of this is the strength” (Nechemiah 8,10). From laws pertaining to the preparation of This is the power of Rosh Hashanah this verse we learn that Hashem re- the hides used for making Tefillin. As upon which the entire year is depend- joices in our crowning of Him. ent. This is why we do not confess on long as one has intention at the be- It is impossible to imagine the extent this day at all - all the prayers of the ginning of the working of the hides of humility it is that Hashem, out of day revolve solely around the sover- that it is for the sanctity of Tefillin His love for us, requests of us to eignty and kingship of Hashem: “May then he is not required to have this crown Him, and in return gives us the you alone Hashem reign upon all your explicit intention during the remain- eternal merit of doing so and of cleav- creations, and may Your name be der of the task because everything is ing to Him, as the verse states: “Holy sanctified” (Rosh Hashanah prayers). drawn after his initial thought, as King is Yisroel to Hashem, the first of His On the day of creation we crown the Shlomo said: produce”(Yirmiyahu 2,3). There is One who created it, we are His and Koheles nothing sweeter and more pleasant) ”טוב אחרית דבר מראשיתו“ we beseech Him that we should merit 7,8) , which can be interpreted as than this; that the Creation should to serve Him wholeheartedly. “The end of a thing is good owing to know its Creator, and it is therefore a its beginning”. As it is known, the Kotzke Rebbe day of rejoicing. would spend extended amounts of Temimus – the protection “The joy of Hashem is your strength Hashem and to delight in the radiance -of the Shechinah (the Divine Pres ”)מעזכם( This day, upon which the entire year ence). We see from this that we must is dependent, requires extra care and The Rebbe teaches in Likutey Mo- arouse ourselves tremendously not to (strength) עז caution. As is known, the year con- haran 11 that the word deceive ourselves, not to trade eter- tains 365 days which parallel the 365 alludes to shimras ha’bris (the guard- nal reward for the lowest depth of a veins of the body, the Festivals paral- ing of the covenant i.e.: sexual purity bitter gehinom (hell). When a person lel the internal organs and Rosh and holiness) and this is what Ezra guards his bris then even his eating Hashanah parallels the brain. This is said about Rosh Hashana: “For the joy and business affairs are uplifted tre- .”)מעזכם( why the brain is shielded by the of Hashem is your might mendously, as the holy Seer of Lublin strong protection of the skull, be- For the main coronation of Hashem once said: “one who blemishes his cause the brain requires the most as king is only through emunah and bris is not worth the food he con- care as it is the “rosh” (head) of all shmiras ha’bris which are interde- sumes and all his sustenance is in the the limbs which are dependent upon pendent. This is what King David merit of someone else who does it. So it is with Rosh Hashanah upon prayed for: “Avert my eyes from see- guard his bris.” which the entire year’s life-force de- ing futility”(Tehillim 119,38), that he pends. should not see visions of emptiness, Especially in our times, in such tre- for any vision that is not holy is false mendous concealment, it is essential This protection is temimus (simplicity and futile; this is the opposite of what to know how important kedusha and sincerity), meaning, to pray with a person is created for. Just like one (holiness) is, that it is worthwhile simple sincerity. If the holiness of the who mistakenly purchases a piece of coming to this world to be ‘cruel’ to day shines to a person this is wonder- glass for the price of an expensive oneself and guard his bris, that ful, but even if it does not, one should jewel that is worth a fortune, when through this all the worlds are puri- still say the words of coronation with he goes home full of joy and fulfill- fied. One must know that a moment simplicity, “take with you words and ment, he is living nothing more than a of a challenge is an awesome time in return to Hashem” (Hoshea 14,3). The lie. which Hashem is beseeching a per- main thing is not to abandon this sim- son: “Please, crown me king in My plicity, for it is the solid skull that I recall an old man from my youth in world”. It is impossible to describe shields the brain. The Old City who sold copper. He what a commotion is taking place in once purchased ten barrels of copper In truth, Rosh Hashanah itself is the heaven at that moment; the angels form a certain Arab merchant and the idea of simplicity and sincerity as is are defending a person and re- large barrels were delivered to his taught in Likutey Halachos - all we questing that he merit passing the home where he paid a hefty sum for need do is nullify ourselves before test. It is equally impossible to imag- them. When the deliverymen and the our holy Rebbe who said: “Hashem ine how great a merit it is when one merchant left his house he opened has given me Rosh Hashanah as a does succeed. the barrels and discovered that only gift” and draw close to him with sim- the top of them was covered with a My Hashem help that we should mer- plicity. Regarding this day the verse fine layer of copper granules whilst it to crown Him king with tremendous says: “Blow the Shofar at the moons beneath it was nothing but a barrel joy, to effect salvation, healing, grace, renewal” (Tehillim 81,4) – unlike the load of sand. He was so shocked that kindness and mercy for ourselves and other festivals which occur at the he immediately left this world. all of the Jewish people, Amen. time of the full moon, Rosh Hashanah takes place specifically when the So it is that this world deceives a per- moon is completely concealed. This is son. On the surface it seems to him because it is something very deep and that his actions are proper and good hidden and this is why simplicity is so but in truth they are nothing but vani- vital on this day. ty and illusions. The Medrash teaches that one who is faced with a chal-

lenge and closes his eyes from seeing evil merit to look upon the glory of 8 BELIEVING IN YOURSELF by Rav Eliyahu Godlevsky, shlit”a

The Rebbe said that there is nothing great- many people afflicted with this scab. They The Rebbe teaches us, “If you would like er than to be by him Rosh Hashanah. Reb may be good people, and they may have to know what’s going on in the world at Noson adds that in Hashem’s eyes, there is begun to come close to the Tzaddikim, but large, reflect upon what’s going on with nothing greater than the Rebbe’s Rosh they are always saying, ‘My friends, you.” Let’s think. What causes most peo- Hashanah. How much do we have to thank they’re for sure Tzaddikim, but as for my- ple to give up at some point? self, how can all this help me? I know Hashem that we have merited to be here! First of all, you should know that giving up what’s wrong with me, how I’m always doesn’t only mean somebody who walks However, we also know that the Rebbe failing.’ They afterwards fall completely around with his nose in the ground. He can once said that he doesn’t want us to be away from belief in Tzaddikim, until many even be a joyful, happy person, who has like the Chassidim who travel to their Reb- of them have become opponents of the all the money and respect he wants. But bes, and don’t know why they are going, Tzaddikim as a result. We thus see that he has despaired of becoming a good Jew. and what they are coming back with. We their loss of faith in the Chachamim start- He’s tried many times and it didn’t work, should therefore try to gain knowledge of ed as a lack of faith in themselves.” what we are supposed to be getting from so he decided that it’s just not for him. We thus find that believing in oneself is of the Rebbe. The cause of his despair is disappoint- utmost importance. When a person has it, ment. He was motivated to become a The Necessity to Believe in Oneself, and he will naturally come to merit everything complete Tzaddik . He saw that he was not How Trust in Tzaddikim is Not Enough else. being successful, so he fell and gave up. Let us contemplate the words of Reb Nos- But what happens to a person? A person But maybe he just didn’t read the map son in Likutei Halachos, Hilchos Pikadon studies books of mussar and self- correctly? 5:7, which is based on Likutei Moharan 61, improvement, or hears sermons and lec- Is it possible to take off all the dirty clothes a Torah lesson which the Rebbe taught on tures. Since he has a Jewish soul connect- in one day? Can all the years-old bad hab- Rosh Hashanah. ed to Hashem, he feels inspired. He de- its be changed in one moment? Reb Nosson discusses the principle of trust cides to take life into his hands, and to in Chachamim, wise, learned men; the become a Tzaddik right away. If a person who was used to smoking two packs of cigarettes a day, wanted to break necessity to believe in true Tzaddikim. In We all recognize this picture. Many times his habit, could we even think that it addition, he adds that it’s crucial to be- people are motivated and inspired, and would be possible in one day? And even if lieve in one’s friends, which means to real- they decide right here and now to break it has happened once, and somebody was ize that everyone has a good point and themselves away from this material world, successful, we would consider it atypical. that in that good point, his friend is like a to become angel-like. But when it comes It’s not normal. Tzaddik . It is therefore important to have to actualization, there are those who fall good friends in order to be inspired by away five minutes after hearing the Of course there are probably stories of their good points. speech, and others for whom it might last people who were so terrible yesterday, Reb Nosson continues, that even more a day or two, and some very strong people and today are already Tzaddikim. But you important than believing in the Tzaddik who may be able to keep it up for a week and I are not in that category. Their exist- and in the good in our friends, is the need or two. ence doesn’t help the general population. to believe in oneself. “And even more so, With most people, everything’s over im- To our distress, this is exactly what is pre- it is essential to believe that even his little mediately after the lecture. On the way venting most people from discarding their bit of Avodas Hashem and Torah study is home somebody got him angry, etc., and feelings of despair. Orators present ex- cherished very much by Hashem.” he’s already back to being the same per- citing stories about people who successful- These words may cause us to wonder, eve- son as before, with the same bad charac- ly left their old, negative ways and became rybody is for sure asking himself, why do I ter traits, the same failings, and the same righteous overnight. But there is no lesson have to believe in myself? I know who I am thoughts. That wonderful person who was that can be learnt and applied to the aver- and where I am, and what’s going on in my at the lecture is gone, disappeared. When age person from such an account. There life. What do I have from believing in my- will he be met again? When will he wake are no parallels in these wonder-stories to self? Reb Nosson answers us, “Even if up again? Maybe tomorrow at the next our own situation. All it does is bring a someone believes in Hashem, and in lecture. And what will be then? He’ll only person to despair and encourage false Tzaddikim, and in his friends that they are stay around for a couple of minutes again. belief in the concept of “winners” and “losers’, and paints a incorrect and distort- all Tzaddikim, but he doesn’t believe in And then our hero comes up with a clear ed view of reality. himself, which means that he doesn’t be- conclusion: There are two types of people lieve that the faith which he places in the in the world. Special individuals, who were The Rebbe, on the other hand, reveals the true Chachamim is very, very precious. born on some mountain, who are capable secret of success- believe in yourself. You This is also as if he doesn’t really believe in of becoming Tzaddikim; and us, the major- really have what to believe in, even when the Chachamim. In a certain way, this lack ity of Klal Yisroel. This is the state of you feel full of materialistic desires and of belief is worse than anything. We find affairs, and this is how it’s going to stay. failings. Don’t you lay Tefillin every morn- ing? If so, believe that your mitzvah of I once got a ride in a taxi. During the trip In every hospital, the patient is first Tefillin is very precious to Hashem. Do you we discussed the Rebbe’s teachings, and I brought to the emergency room. Over spend some time every day studying To- mentioned to him Reb Nosson’s comment there, they diagnose what’s wrong, and rah, or listening to Torah lectures? Believe that it’s worth coming down into this then send him to the proper department. then, in yourself, that your little Avodah world in order to have just one less lewd There are curtains separating each patient, and Torah study is very valuable in thought, even if the rest of one’s life is full each one on his own bed. When his turn Hashem’s eyes. Even when it is not done of sin, just once in his life he subdued one comes along, the doctor comes, does for the right reasons, or together with for- bad thought, it already validates his whole some tests, and decides on the proper eign thoughts, believe that it’s very dear in life. medication or procedure. Some people are the eyes of Hashem. discharged after a few minutes, and others After the trip was over and I got home, I are sent directly to the operating room. This is the reason why we are gathered realized that I had forgotten something in here in Uman. This is what we are sup- the place where the driver had picked me It’s unheard of for a patient to complain to posed to be receiving from the Rebbe, to up. I called him up to see if he was still in a doctor, “Why is he being sent home and pack into our suitcase and to take home. the area. I have to stay? Why is everyone being sent to a different department, let everyone go Whether you are Reuven or Ronny, Tzvi or The driver recognized my voice, and said, together?” Everyone understands that Tzor, Shuki or Shimon, every single one of ”Before you tell me what you need, I must every patient is here for a different reason, you, every little bit of your Avodah is very first tell you something. I was once a Ye- and it’s impossible to compare one person precious in Hashem’s eyes. This is the les- shiva Bachur, and I always tried watching to another. son that we are supposed to take home my eyes. After I was married and had a with us- to begin to believe in ourselves. family to support, I was forced to make a The same thing happens when we come to living driving a taxi. Reality taught me that the Rebbe, the great doctor. Everybody When You Believe in Yourself, You Get Am- a taxi driver just can’t watch his eyes. I comes with his own problems. There’s no bition to Keep on Doing More abandoned my eyes to the yetzer hara. reason to peak behind the curtain to see Until know we have performed Mitzvos what’s going on with other patients. “Two hours ago, when you spoke to me, only because we have gotten into the hab- Sometimes we might see a friend of ours and you told me how it’s worth it to come it, and to be true servants of Hashem and by the Tziyun crying, speaking to Hashem into this world for just one less thought, I complete Tzaddikim appeared to us as in Hisbodedus for many hours. But I myself decided to strengthen myself. In the past outside of our range, beyond our horizons. can barely get one word out, my heart is two hours I’ve already been able to watch This is the reason that we’ve only gotten stopped up, my mind is dizzy. my eyes and overcome tens of tests! I now by thus far with the minimum Yiddishkeit - know that it’s worth coming into this We must keep in mind that all of us are as if we didn’t have a choice - with no en- world for just one less thought.” here, thank G-d, by the great doctor. Eve- thusiasm. We thought to ourselves that rything here is wondrously precise. There anyway we’ll never be Tzaddikim, and if Everyone has his Tikkun, Don’t Look at An- are no tiny mistakes. Sometimes the Reb- so… yone Else’s Avodah be sees that your Tikkun is to take away But if we pay attention to and believe the At the time that we have merited to come your mind, your heart, and your speech. words of the Rebbe and Reb Nosson, who spend time in the Rebbe’s shadow, we This is the only way to heal you. It would are commanding us to believe in our- must first know that the Rebbe demands be terrible if you would cry now, or feel selves, that even our small amount of nothing from us. We are fortunate to have any inspiration. You wouldn’t get to your Avodah is dear in Hashem’s eyes, we will merited to come here. We have come to Tikkun. But your friend, his Tikkun is to certainly start to feel excitement and a the hospital. We are all critically ill. This is pour out his heart like water. It would be desire to continue climbing higher and not a regular hospital, which people come awful for him to take your medicine. higher in spirituality, and to keep on trying to full of fear and doubt, who knows if the This is also true, of course, the entire year, again and again. doctor will be able to correctly diagnose everywhere in the world. the illness and prescribe the best treat- Let us take, for example, the concept of ment? There are always many medical We have such a Rebbe, and such a stu- watching one’s eyes. The Torah commands mistakes, and many procedures don’t dent, Reb Nosson, that with their strength us, “Do not stray after your heart and after work out. we can be strong in all the battles. We will your eyes.” There are people who think not surrender, we will continue to fight, that this means, “That’s it, I will never look But here we are in the hands of the per- and we will remember that our goal is not at an unseemly thing again for the rest of fect doctor, which has never made a mis- to be successful and reach great heights, my life!” So what happens the moment he take. He is capable of accurately identify- but to battle on and on. trips up, when once he is not as successful ing every sickness. He not only knows us as he should? If the little bit which he is from this incarnation, he knows how our Through this may we all merit to a new capable of is worthless in his eyes, he is souls stem from Adam. He knows in how year of blessings, and to be inscribed and liable to abandon himself entirely, G-d many cemeteries we’ve been buried. He sealed for a good year, Amen. forbid, and who knows where he might knows our actions and deeds, our speech, end up… our thoughts, and everything that is going to happen to us. 10 INSPIRATION IN HONOR OF THE JOURNEY TO THE TZIYUN OF OUR HOLY REBBE By Rav Eliezer Berland, Shlit”a

10 With awe and trepidation, we are now be- is higher than the torah itself , we should and that we have still not merited to sincere ginning our journey, thousands of people indeed merit with this journey to true, sin- teshuva with true regret from the depths of from every corner of the world. Has there cere and complete teshuva; to have every our hearts. Surely if we had truly regretted 11 ever been such a great thing? Has anything part of our souls renewed and that we our wicked ways we would have already of the like ever been heard of? After rough- should never again return to the ways of been saved long ago. And now, from where ly fifty years of the iron curtain, about three folly. will come our salvation, being that we are still so far from true regret for the past and generations of true holy tzaddikim who did And so if we proceed, with trembling knees from full-fledged resolve for the future not not merit to make it to the Rebbe's Tziyun. and tear-filled eyes, will we truly be worthy to sin ever again? And now WE, the spiritually impoverished, to have our teshuva accepted? Will we truly who are so far from the point of truth and abandon from here forth our forbidden However, we nevertheless believe with per- Kedusha, are making the journey. Upon us thoughts and sights? Will we merit from fect faith, and will not, God forbid, allow has befallen divine mercy of levels beyond today to: “Who may ascend the mountain any despair to sway us, that there is no comprehension to travel to the one who of Hashem, and who may stand in the place greater sin and transgression than despair14 possesses intelligence supreme to any oth- of His sanctity? One with clean hands and and belief in any lack of hope. We know, er, wisdom incorporating all wisdoms, a pure heart who has not sworn in with as much clarity as we know that the 1 soul inclusive of all Three Avos vain…” (Tehillim 24,3) Will we truly merit to sun and the moon shine in the sky, that it is 2 (forefathers) and all Seven Shepherds . A purity of heart, that the waters of purity within the great power of The Tzaddik who raging sea of mercy has suddenly burst and sweetness should wash us clean of our is going to arouse us to true teshuva and forth, sweeping us to the source of light, illness and filth? That we should merit re- remorse with all the heart, and to uproot compassion and teshuva; the source of ke- newed souls, that our prayers should be from within us, once and for all, any trace of dusha and tahara. We now stand ready to received in favor and that we should be evil in thought and in sight that are the immerse ourselves in infinite waters of ke- granted a fresh start in which we will begin bitter fruits of the many reincarnations dusha and tahara that will renew every part to close our eyes to this lowly world that it spent in the deepest depths of evil and be- 3 of our souls ; our nefesh, ruach, neshama, should not taint us in thought, word or ac- low, since the sin of the Eitz Hada'as (The 4 chaya and yechida , so that we too should tion with the poison of The Nachash tree of knowledge) until this very day. 5 merit to be "exactly like me," to achieve (primordial snake) in whose belly the world We are traveling to the radiant heavenly the highest level of yechida attainable has been completely consumed. 15 6 light of Adam Ha'rishon (the first man, (yechida she'be'yechida ), with a new spirit We are now coming to the place where we who until his sin had radiated a spiritual of kedusha and tahara to know that "there can be freed, in the blink of an eye, from light that nullified that of the sun), to a soul is nothing else but Him" and that the physi- The Nachash that has engulfed us from that never once sinned, a soul that fled cal world is truly nothing . head to toe, not leaving even one strand of from within Adam Ha'rishon before he even Who is it that can bring us to shed rivers of hair unconsumed. Only The Tzaddik who is entertained the thought of sin, that did not tears, day and night, over the days and called “Levyasan”12, as taught in the Zohar taste from the Eitz Hada'as in action, sight years that have passed by without torah Ha'kadosh (Parshas Ki Tetsei pg.279)13, *The or thought16. A soul that never ceased it's and tefillah, without teshuva and regret; gematria (numerical value of the Hebrew Dveikus (cleaving) to Hashem for even a filled instead with brazen arrogance and letters) of 'Levyasan' is 496, which is a also moment17, that never saw the physicality of terrible impurity. Even if we should live the gematria of 'Nachman Ben(son of) Fei- this world at all, that passed through this numerous years and do nothing but confess ga'+, whose 248 limbs, internally and exter- world without eyes, without ears, without a and cry day and night, we could not atone nally *248 × 2 =496+, where transformed mouth, without hands and without legs18, 7 for even the slightest sin of a fleeting se- into spiritual torches of fire, can take us out that never took a breath from this world; cond. How much more so for all our lives, from the stomach of The Nachash. the wondrous soul that cannot be compre- in which we have sunk to the deepest hended, the soul before whom no gates are Our Holy Rebbe stated that even in his time depths of the realm of evil, “save me Ha- closed and no heart impenetrable. he had succeeded in freeing many people shem because the waters have reached from the grasp of the Samech Mem (Satan), We are coming closer to the flaming fire until the soul” (Tehillim 69,2), “waters and his strength has continued to grow that can burn and eradicate any trace of flowed over my head; I said, ‘I am from day to day and from moment to mo- impurity, we will soon fulfill the verse doomed!’” (Eicha 3,54). And there is no one ment, so much so that he can free even us, “anything that comes into fire, you shall to save us from all the impure thoughts, and there is no end to the ways and means pass through fire and it will be puri- sights and other terrible transgressions that of salvation drawn from the endless fied” (Bamidbar 31,23)19, we are progress- bombard us day and night, leaving us with “wellsprings of salvation” that are without ing with broken hearts and rivers of tears no possibility of inner peace. boundaries and without limit. It is only be- with which to burn away all of our sins, un- All our hope and faith is that as we draw cause of our own endless arrogance that we intentional and willful, from all our gilgulim 8 closer to the source of teshuva which pro- are so far from truth and humility, sunken (reincarnations), truthful cries and broken 9 ceeded the very creation of the world , that in all sorts of jealousy and terrible impurity heartedness drawn from he who is the heart of the world, the root of all hearts, like me" 14See Shivchey Haran #2 whose toenail was more heart-like than the 6Every one of the five levels of the soul in- 15Sefer Hagilgulim chapter 19, Sha'ar Hagil- very heart of any other, he is the one more cludes within it five levels, thereby making gulim introductions 29,31,32,35,36. See compassionate than all those with compas- Yechida within Yechida the highest possible also Sefer Halikutim Bereishis 4, Zohar sion and it is he who promised, without level. See Chayei Moharan #267: "he Harakiya 58 pg 9. compromise, that he will come to the aid of achieved the level of Yechida in highest 16 all those who travel to him simply and sin- Hashmatos to Chayei Moharan #290(from form" cerely for the sake of teshuva alone. R' Alter Tepliker) regarding what is stated in 7Chayei Moharan #304: "How can you pos- Sichos Haran:"'One thing I managed to The little bit of broken heartedness that we sibly repent, will your days and all your achieve and through this I merited to what I have and the few tears we will merit to strength ever suffice to correct a single item merited', and it was not explained what it shed in the coming days will suffice, of all the damage you have done? It is only was, I heard that he said that it is brought in through the power of the awesome because I rectify for you and I have the the Kabbalistic teachings that when Adam Tzaddik, to create wondrous vessels to power to do so-that is, all the damage you Harishon ate from The Tree of Knowledge cleanse us of our sins, to refresh every part have done up till now. From now on the all the souls that were included in him tast- of our souls, to uplift our prayers20 and our main thing is not to carry on like before…” ed from the tree too, but his holy soul mer- teshuva21 until all of the gathering and all see also Sha'ar Ha'gilgulim introduction 22. ited that it did not taste from it at all." It is of the Jewish people are uplifted back to 8 known that there were souls that left Adam our root in Hashem's Throne Of Glory, to be See Likutei Halachos Orach Chayim, Hilchos before the sin (Beis Aharon of Karlin included in the root of all the Jewish souls, Rosh Hashana 6,2:"…therefore we need to pg.99,regarding the Baal Shem Tov.) See to be incorporated with all the souls of the travel to true Tzaddikim for Rosh Hashana also Sha'ar Hagilgulim introduction 32 that coming awesome and holy gathering, to who involve themselves with this path in all souls were at that time incorporated in truly feel our lowliness, that we are truly order to bring repentance to the world, Adam except for the completely new souls the worst, lower than all the others who upon which the coming of Moshiach is de- to which Adam did not merit, and were not join in this holy gathering and every other pendant as the sages taught and as the include within him. See also Kochvey Ohr Jew, wherever he may be22, to feel that all verse states: 'A redeemer will come to Zion, Chochmah u'binah #41. of them are closer to true teshuva and that and to those of Jacob who repent' (Yeshaya 17 in truth we have no hope of sincere repent- 59,20), for the name of Moshiach preceded See Shivchey Haran #2. the world as the verse states:' before the ance if not for the awesome and holy 18See Rabbi Nachman's Stories #13 The Sev- sun his name connotes mastery' (Tehillim Tzaddik who promised to come to the aid of en Beggars, where The Rebbe tells of seven 24 72,17), so too did repentance precede the every one of us. beggars, one blind, one deaf etc. Each one world, therefore it is he who knows the In his merit and through his power, all of explains how, in truth, they have no defect secret of 'In the beginning' (Bereishis 1,1) our prayers and teshuva will be accepted, all. For example the beggar with the speech through which is the main path of repent- even those of the spiritually poor and im- defect says:" Actually I am not blind at all. ance, and from him all the true Tzaddikim poverished. It is in his reliable hands that But the entire duration of the world's exist- receive." we have entrusted ourselves, to purify us of ence is not considered by me to be even the 9 any trace of sin and iniquity until the com- Talmud Pesachim 54,Nedarim 39, Zohar blink of an eye. (it was for this reason that ing of Moshiach in the blink of an eye, this Acharei Mos pg 69. he appeared to be blind; he did not look at the world at all.)" See also Tzaddik #272 very year, in the merit of our holy Rebbe, 10TzaddiK #565, Sichos Haran #3,Likutei Ha- that from this story one can understand the Amen. lachos Hilchos Ona'ah:"…for according to Rebbe's greatness. See also Yemey Mohar- Footnotes: the laws of the torah there would be no nat part 1 #66. rectification for a sinner at all, but repent- 1See Lekutei Moharan lesson 58. ance is higher than the torah and through it 19See Likutei Moharan lessons 4 & 156. 2Lekutei Moharan lesson 22,3, Biur Haliku- all is turned to good and willful sin turned 20Likutei Moharan lesson 2. tim; see Likutei Halachos Choshen Mishpat, to merit." See also Zohar Chadash Parshas 21 Hilchos Nezikin 4,16: "..that we should mer- Chukkas pg. 50, Tomer Devorah chapter 4. See note 7. it to find the true Tzaddik who incorporates 22 11Biur Halikutim lesson 22 key 11. Likutei Moharan lesson 14,5. Likutei Hala- The Seven Shepherds, for only he can work 12 chos Hilchos Orlah 5. on the rectification of our souls, to heal us The Levyasan is an enormous type of sea 23 of the tremendous pain and illness of our creature described in scripture, Pirkey Tzaddik #218,# 305. souls and to draw us to an understanding of D'Rebbi Eliezer mentions that is eats one 24Sichos Haran #141, Tzaddik # 225 Godliness." whale a day.

13 3Biur Halikutim lesson 22, key 11. See there, that the Levyasan represents the "Tzaddik who is the foundation of the 4The five levels of the soul. world"(Mishlei 10, 25) and parallels the 5Sichos Haran #165: "Every single person attribute of Yesod (foundation) which is the can merit to come to my level, to be exactly paradigm of holiness and purity. 12 “WHOEVER BELIEVES IN ME, SHOULD COME TO ME FOR ROSH HASHANAH” By Rav Nosson Liebermensh, Shlit”a

A talk given in preparation for the journey to Likutei Moharan where the Rebbe discusses me what is its purification, this is its purifica- Uman for Rosh Hashanah the greatness of spending Rosh Hashanah by tion.’” the Tzaddik, are lofty ideas, far from our un- The Rebbe teaches in Likutei Moharan 2 that In the Midrash Rabbah on Parshas Chukas, derstanding. the sages discuss the mitzvah of Parah Adu- Pgam Habris is also referred to as Tumaas mah, which the Torah refers to as a “chok” - a An expression of this idea is that we don’t Mes. find that concerning any other advice which law without explanation. They explain that Together with what we just saw from Reb the Rebbe gives. An expression such as, “all “The Satan and the nations of the world agi- Nosson, we can understand that this is what who believe in me and heed my call should tate Klal Yisroel by asking, ‘What’s this mitz- Hashem was telling Moshe. The rectification come to me for Rosh Hashanah.” When trying vah all about? What rationale is behind it?’ for Tumaas Mes, which is Pgam Habris, is to convince somebody of an idea in a way The Torah therefore calls it a ‘chok’, as if to through a “chok”. Putting aside the mind and that it should take hold of him, we don’t em- say, I have decreed this mitzvah, and you nullifying oneself before the Tzaddik, through ploy faith and belief. We try to explain the don’t have permission to wonder about it.” belief in him, is what purifies and renews the thought every possible way. But when it mind. This Midrash needs clarification. Don’t we comes to Rosh Hashanah, the Rebbe uses this perform all the mitzvos only because Hashem unique expression, “Whoever believes in This is what is alluded to in the Midrash that so decreed? If that’s the case, what’s the nov- me.” This is because we have no idea what Hashem told Moshe, “To you I am revealing elty of the mitzvah of Parah Adumah relative the Rebbe’s Rosh Hashanah is. Everything the reason behind Parah Adumah, and for to all the other mitzvos in the Torah? depends on what the Rebbe said, “If you be- everyone else it’s a chok.” The explanation It would appear than the explanation is as lieve in me- come to me for Rosh Hasha- was given to Moshe, the true Tzaddik. The follows: all the other mitzvos have at least an nah…” same way the Rebbe said that only he under- stands the aforementioned Zohar. For the amount of reason and understanding which In this context, we find Reb Nosson in Likutei mind of the Tzaddik is the Tikkun. But we we are capable of grasping. The reasoning Halachos discussing the well-known Zohar must approach it as a Chok, by totally giving behind Parah Adumah, however, is totally that no Teshuvah helps with the blemishing ourselves over to the Tzaddik. hidden from us, and no human mind can of the Holy Covenant (Pgam Habris) for which grasp its meaning. the Rebbe insisted that Teshuvah does in fact Therefore, concerning all the obstacles and The nations of the world therefore harass and help and that no one understands that Zohar doubts which we all have, there seems to be pain Klal Yisroel with their words, “what is besides him. Reb Nosson explains how the a simple solution. Let us all imagine the Reb- this burning of the Parah and grinding of its rectification of that blemish, and the true be alive, living in Uman, and calling out to us, ashes and spraying the water etc.” But we repentance for the sin, is through believing in “Come to me for Rosh Hashanah!” People ask know that the answer is that Hashem has Tzaddikim. He explains this in light of Likutei the question, there are people who would decreed it and we have no permission to Moharan 29, that all the 365 spiritual rather come a different time, and the Rebbe wonder about it. “tendons” in a person correspond to the 365 answers them all, “Whether you eat or not, negative commandments in the Torah, and whether you sleep or not, whether you daven But it’s the Parah Adumah - about which we when someone does a specific sin, he causes or not, just be by me for Rosh Hashanah, have no understanding - that has the ability a blemish in the tendons which corresponds there’s nothing greater than this.” to cleanse the most severe form of impurity, to it. Tumaas Mes, defilement from a corpse. The And then he adds, “The Tikkunim which I ac- only way to be purified from it is with the Concerning this, the Rebbe says that we must complish on Rosh Hashanah, I can’t do ashes of the Parah. always try to purify ourselves by drawing pu- throughout the whole year.” rity and “whiteness” from our minds to our Everybody should think about how much he We find a similar concept in regard to the “tendons”. But what should somebody who has sacrificed himself to get close to the Reb- Rebbe’s Rosh Hashanah. While in the Rebbe’s has blemished his mind through Pgam Habris be and to Breslov, and to all the advice which general advice, although their key effective- do? ness comes from our faith in each of them, at he has given. Here we are discussing an awe- the same time we see that the Rebbe pre- Reb Nosson explains that the only solution is some thing, such an incredible Tikkun, incom- sented them together with a variety of rea- to nullify his mind to the mind of the Tzaddik. parable to anything else, something which sons and explanations, by which someone Then the Tzaddik can give him “whiteness” the Rebbe himself told us that there is noth- who needs them explained can be satisfied from his own mind in order to purify him ing greater than it. Of course, it’s impossible and convinced of their truth. We are actually from all his blemishes. to demand sacrifice from someone else, but at least let everybody know what we’re talk- expected to look deeply into them and to In this light, we can understand the following ing about. Maybe this will help people to try understand them. Even though, of course we Midrash: “Said R’ Yehoshuah D’Sachnin in harder to overcome their obstacles. must remember that with all of our under- the name of R’ Levi: Concerning everything standing, however great it may be, it’s noth- which the Holy One, Blessed be He, told Hashem should help us all draw upon our- ing in comparison to their true greatness, as Moshe, he explained to him its impurity and selves the holiness of Rosh Hashanah, and the Rebbe truly grasped them. its purification. When they reached the por- alleviate all harshness for the coming year, for The exception to the rule is the Rebbe’s Rosh tion of the Kohanim being defiled by a the entire world. Hashanah. It’s akin to the mitzvah of Parah corpse, Moshe asked, ‘Master of the World, Adumah. It’s as if the Rebbe also said, “I have if one is defiled is such a way, how will he be decreed a chok, and you have no permission purified?’ and He did not answer him… to ponder it.” Concerning his Rosh Hashanah, When they reached the portion about Parah the Rebbe didn’t give any reason or explana- Adumah, Hashem told him, ‘At the time I tions as he usually does. Even those lessons in told you about Tumaas Mes, and you asked 13 UMAN – THE WAY TO ERETZ YISROEL by Rav Shmuel Stern shilt"a

It is a well known fact that ana”sh were in a any other time of year. Even people who ‘concealed saying’ in the merit of the Rebbe state of great awe on Rosh Hashanah, espe- cannot be rectified at all, can be rectified who advocates for us before Hashem and cially during the first day, a day of 'harsh ver- during that time because he does on Rosh does teshuvah for us. This is how we suc- dicts'. This is why in Breslov it is customary Hashanah things that he ordinarily wouldn't ceed in obtaining our rectification and atone- not to sing any nigunim during the first night be able to do at all. ment on all our transgressions. other than “Eshes Chayil” with the Rebbe's This is why we need to come to Uman for Even though we leave Eretz Yisroel, we are famous melody – so that we keep in a serious Rosh Hashanah. actually traveling to the very source from mood. It is also the reason why we always where Eretz Yisroel emanates from - the So how can the Rebbe accomplish on Rosh try not to talk necessarily during that time, foundation stone - which is the true Tzaddik. Hashanah rectifications that aren't possible too. On Rosh Hashanah, through him, we receive any other time of year? Rebbe Nosson ex- the light called ‘the road to Eretz Yisroel’, the Each and every one of us, then, is supposed plains it in Likutei Halachos, synagogue 5:16: to do his utmost to merit to atonement of his source of the greatest benefactions and mer- sins on Rosh Hashanah – but can we actually “The reason why people must go to cy. Tzaddikim on Rosh Hashanah is the free do anything about this on our own? This is what Rebbe Nosson says in Likutei chessed that sustained the world before the Halachos: Rebbe Nachman answers this in Chaya Mo- giving of the Torah which constitutes ‘the haran 304, saying that we do not possess the road to Eretz Yisroel’”. “The world was created on Rosh Hashana, ability to completely atone for even a single which is why we are busy paving the road to We all need Hashem to grant us free chessed blemish during our lifetime. He said: “You Eretz Yisroel on that day. The reason for this on Rosh Hashanah so that we are acquitted can do teshuvah? You don't live long enough is that the main revelation of the inherit holi- in our trial. We need this because only to fix even a single blemish! But I do teshu- ness of Eretz Yisroel is on Rosh Hashanah, Tzaddikim can stand trial and be acquitted on vah for you and it is within my power to cor- because it is the time when we draw the free their own merit. rect all that you spoiled – the most important chessed which enabled the creation of the thing is that you stop spoiling from now on. This free chessed is what the Tzaddikim draw world.” Even from today I don't care about the sins upon us, especially during Rosh Hashanah – This is especially true when we travel to you'll do inadvertently, just keep yourself and this is why we need to travel to them for Uman to the Rebbe, who is the foundation from sinning advertently.” Rosh Hashanah. stone that gives forth the ‘road to Eretz Yis- Obviously the Rebbe doesn't say we should- The free chessed that exonerates us during roel.’ This is what gives us the power to ad- n't do teshuvah at all and leave it all up to our trial is called ‘the road to Eretz Yisroel’, vance on the road to kedusha. him. The Rebbe means for us to do teshuvah meaning, to the kedusha. On the road to Now it is easy to understand why the Rebbe to the best of our ability. Yet, since we can- kedusha great illumination is needed for all said: “What shall I tell you? There is no great- not do it to the extent that will wipe out our those who haven't yet merited attaining ke- er thing than to be with me during Rosh sins completely, the Rebbe, being the dusha. Tzaddik Yesod Olam and root of the souls of Hashanah. Even though other Tzaddikim may Israel, took it upon himself to complete our The holy Rebbe is the one who illuminates say so too, it is not such a necessity to be by rectification for us. But he will do it on condi- that light of free chessed. It is a tremendous them on Rosh Hashanah *the way it is a must tion that we try not to transgress advertent- light that can bring even those who are far to be by me+. The fact that it's hard to un- ly. He wants us to detest those sins and actu- away, like us, close to kedusha. This is why derstand why *he+ says that being with *him+ ally voice our protest before the evil inclina- we must come to the Tzaddik on Rosh Hasha- is so much more important than being by tion that pushes us to sin. nah. We come so that the Tzaddik will draw other Tzaddikim is just another riddle on us light from a source called ‘the sealed *meaning, since there are so many things This enables us to understand what the Reb- saying’ which will bring us close to Hashem about him that are hard to understand, let be said: “My Rosh Hashanah is a great and grant us forgiveness and effective atone- there be another thing added to the list+. chidush and Hashem knows this isn't an in- ment of all verdicts. And he said that his entire chore is Rosh heritance from my ancestors. Hashem gave Hashanah and emphasized greatly the need -"בראשית" This light stems from the word me a present that I know what Rosh Hasha- to be by him during that time.” nah is. Not only are you dependent on my “In the beginning” - which is also known as Rosh Hashanah, but the entire world is de- ‘The sealed saying’. Rosh Hashanah is also a May there be a will before Hashem that we pendent on my Rosh Hashanah.” beginning, which is why the concealed light merit to adhere ourselves to the Tzaddik who and the"בראשית" used to atone for all the guilty ones is en- constitutes the The main time for teshuvah is during the cased in it. It is the light of free chessed and foundation stone during Rosh Hashanah, the “Ten days of teshuvah” that start on Rosh this is the light the Rebbe gives us on Rosh beginning of the year, and by that merit as- Hashanah. In order to help us to do teshuva, Hashanah when we travel to the holy get- cend to the kedusha, with total repentance the Rebbe ordered us to be by him on Rosh together in Uman. and receive a sweet, good year. Hashanah. This is when he helps us do teshu- va and this is when the atonement of the sins Rebbe Nosson alludes to this when he says: takes place more than any other time of “The entire vitality of those who are able to year. hold fast, is the force of utter simplicity of the Tzaddik who draws *upon them+ the light This is why he said that it is so important to of free chessed.” be by him for Rosh Hashanah. He said that during that visit, people can receive rectifica- By going to Uman on Rosh Hashanah we re- tions that would be utterly impossible during ceive the light of free chessed from the 14 “GATHER AND LISTEN, O SONS OF YAAKOV …” By Rav Shalom Arush Shlit”a

We are very fortunate to have such a Rebbe tive to fulfill the command of the Rebbe to said, when you will be together with unity, as Rebbe Nachman, who gives us such a gather together, but rather he comes only you will then draw me back to you! for himself in order to receive help for his wonderful understanding of the world and These words the holy Rebbe said during the problems or for the Rebbe’s promises, he provides us with such sweet and wonderful last moments of his life, right before he left will certainly spend Rosh Hashanah under advice. this world. He opened his holy eyes and said “harsh judgments” (dinnim). He has no in- these words! At that point, there weren’t We have a Rebbe that made such great terest in the Kibbutz, and he didn’t come for yet different groups within Breslov. There promises, especially the pledge which he the gathering at all. The opposite is true; he were only the followers of the Rebbe him- made that anyone who comes to him for would have wanted to stay home and be self. But the Rebbe saw what will be, and he Rosh Hashanah will receive such great Tikku- comfortable, not to have to deal with the knew that there will be students who will nim - spiritual rectifications - which would crowds and pushing and no one should teach their own students, and there will be have been impossible to accomplish on his bother him. He therefore gets annoyed with many groups. He therefore warned us, that behalf the rest of the year. the sleeping conditions or with the disor- we should keep together! The more people participate in the Kibbutz, ganized meals, and he get nervous from that (the Rosh Hashanah gathering) the more the person he ran into and the other person The multiplicity of different groups within Rebbe is able to accomplish Tikkunim for who was shouting near the Tziyun, or from Breslov serves the goal of Kiruv Rechokim every individual and for all of Klal Yisroel. that group that was singing and dancing – (drawing close those who are distant). It is Everyone can understand how glad he everything bothers him. impossible that all those who come to Bres- lov should study in the same Yeshivah for should be about every additional person I remember when I first became close to many reasons, both spiritual and material. who comes to join the Kibbutz in Uman, Breslover Chassidus, the way to Uman was Kiruv Rechokim is one of the basic goals of because the Tikkun of every individual is still locked. There was no Kibbutz in Uman, the Rebbe in all of his life’s work, for which greater and more complete when there are and instead we would gather in he gave his life and the life of his children. more people coming and gathering togeth- Yerushalayim. I would pray and beg Hashem He alludes to it in Sipurei Maasiyot in the er. that He should find me a place, even just to beginning of the story of the Lame Son: stand, between the Breslover Chassidim by Anyone who has already been to Uman for “There is a story about a wise man who be- the Kibbutz. I didn’t care at all about the Rosh Hashanah knows, either from personal fore his death called his children and his pushing which is natural standing in the experience or from what he’s seen from family and commanded them to water aisles, and it would probably be difficult for others, that there can be two extreme sides trees. They also have permission to be in- me to pray properly, etc. All of this simply to the Kibbutz experience. You can have volved in other forms of livelihood, but they didn’t interest me at all. What interested me someone who merits great spiritual enlight- should put effort in this - in watering trees!” was just one thing: that I should be a part of enment and inspiration during the Kibbutz, This alludes to the fact that even though the Kibbutz! As the Rebbe said: to pray or and feels attached and nullified before Ha- there are many avenues in Avodas Hashem, not to pray, to eat or not to eat, etc. shem, thereby attaining complete Teshuvah the main thing is to increase the awareness and feeling the excitement from the open This approach, that a person should focus throughout Klal Yisroel, to water the souls, Ahavat Yisroel present at the Kibbutz; and on one thing only: to fulfill the desire of the and to bring people close to serving Ha- then you have someone on the other side Rebbe to gather together, with love for all shem. who feels confused, unsettled, pressured, Breslover Chassidim, and to desire only that The Rebbe writes in Likutei Moharan II 7: distressed, with feelings of annoyance, dis- more and more people will come to gather tance, fighting, etc., Hashem should help us. together - not to care if it is crowded - on “For everyone has to be involved in popu- The main thing which creates the difference the contrary, to let the newcomers sit next lating the world, that the world should be of how a person will spend the days of Rosh to him and let himself be squashed in a little full of people, as the verse says: ‘And you Hashanah in Uman is the approach and in order that there be more room to sit in should fill the land.’ (Breishit 1). This is the goals with which he comes to join the gath- the Kloyz or to stand by the Tziyun, etc. This main way to populate the world, that the ering in Uman. If he comes with a clear de- is the approach through which someone can world should be full of people, meaning sire to fulfill the command of the Rebbe who merit receiving the light of the holy Rebbe, people with awareness. Someone without commanded us to gather together with uni- and he for sure has Hashem’s help that in awareness is not a person at all… The main ty and love, and all of his desires are focused the end he will daven very nicely, and will thing is to raise a new generation of human on just that, that he wants to fulfill the com- have food and a place to sleep, and will ex- beings, and not animals in the form of peo- mand of the Rebbe and nothing else, then perience the greatness of the Kibbutz and to ple. Therefore, as long as people don’t have nothing confuses him and he doesn’t have receive all the strength which he needs. this awareness, and they don’t know and feel Him and His domination, they are not any negative feelings. The exact opposite, The unity and the love are the most im- considered people, since they don’t know he becomes refueled and renewed for the portant thing at this Kibbutz, and in general, about Hashem (which is the definition of a coming year, and he strengthens his want in the life of every Breslover Chassid. Only person.)” and desire to cleave to the path of the Reb- with this can we merit receiving the light of be and his followers - the way of Breslover the holy Rebbe, by loving every Breslover Kiruv Rechokim is achieved first and fore- Chassidim. Chassid, by attaching oneself to all of them, most through peace and unity! Love and But if he doesn’t come with the single objec- with all the different groups, as the Rebbe unity are the things which attract people the most, and controversy is what chases peo- us, a path that anyone who travelled upon measured according to the number of peo- ple away. It is therefore incumbent on every would not have any jealousy or competition ple who are attached together in their participant in the Kibbutz to smile at every- or hate, etc. If a person remains with these hearts, and not according to the amount of body, especially at those who are there for traits, it’s a sign that he hasn’t received the people who are physically there. The Kib- the first time, and to help them find a place knowledge and light of the Rebbe. butz gathering is composed of whoever truly to stay and acclimate. This is the greatest came to be gathered within it with love and This is connected to what the Rebbe said way we can serve the Rebbe, by helping the unity. that we have to bring all of Klal Yisroel close. Rebbe’s Kibbutz be a success. By helping out If the world would see that we have love Someone who in his heart feels separate and being friendly to everyone, it fosters and unity, they would come close. If they from his friends, is not considered being fond memories of the Kibbutz - memories of see hate and controversy, they will be dis- part of the Kibbutz with them, because he is love and unity. These people will want to tanced. We have to know, that to cause not joining them. It is therefore possible come back again, and to bring more friends someone to be distanced from the Rebbe is that there can be a hundred thousand peo- with them,. the worst possible sin, and Hashem should ple at the Kibbutz but in reality there are Only someone who lovingly holds himself watch us. It’s known that the Rebbe said only a thousand who are really gathered in together with all Breslover Chassidim can that he forgives everything except having his love and unity. All of Reb Noson’s calcula- receive the light of the Tzaddik and spread it name disgraced. Controversy is what causes tions which add up to enormous numbers further through Kiruv Rechokim. Under- his name to be disgraced more than any- are only regarding those who gather in love. standing the light and the teaching of the thing does. Reb Avrohom B’Rav Nachman Everyone should therefore try and increase Rebbe are not only dependent on knowing said that sometimes they would see people their love and unity as much as possible. how to learn Likutei Moharan. The Rebbe who held onto controversy at the Rebbe’s This is an integral part of mitigating the himself said, “hold yourselves together and Tziyun, wouldn’t finish that year. harsh decrees which takes place on Rosh you will draw me to you.” We need to be The opposite is also true, and the power of Hashanah at the Tzaddik, which happens together in order to receive the light of the good is always stronger. Unity and love are through the unity and love of those gath- Rebbe. Even more so, someone who is in- the greatest way to sanctify the Rebbe’s ered. When Klal Yisroel are connected in volved with controversy, the Rebbe is cer- name, and the greatest way to serve him. love then the attribute of justice has no con- tainly not with him, and he can not receive This is the most important thing to the Reb- trol over them. But if they are separated in the understanding or the light of the holy be, that there should be awareness of Ha- their hearts, according to the verse in Rebbe. shem, that there be peace and that every- Hoshea 10: “Their hearts are separated, Not feeling love for all Breslover Chassidim one should come close to the true path. they will now be guilty”, all of their guilt and all participants in the holy Kibbutz isa arises … This especially concerns the Kibbutz of the sign that you haven’t understood what the Breslover Chassidim in Uman, of which its This is the message which comes across Rebbe teaches us. Peace is dependent on entire essence is unity. The word “Kibbutz” from this essay. To encourage everyone understanding, as the Rebbe teaches in Liku- itself means to gather, that we all gather who comes to gather at the Kibbutz of Bres- tei Moharan I 56: together as one person with one heart. The lover Chassidim on Rosh Hashanah in Uman, “According to the degree of awareness of main gathering is in the heart, because the to realize that it’s not someone who pushes Hashem, peace is increased. Peace is de- physical conditions of Uman don’t allow more who will get more out of the Rebbe … pendent on awareness, as it’s written, “And everyone to be literally all together at once not someone who gets closer to the Tziyun the wolf will lay with the sheep… for the and that everyone should get to know and by hurting someone else who will get more world will be filled with aware- speak to everybody and to pray together of the Rebbe’s light … not someone who ness” (Yeshaya 11). There will be such a with everyone. It’s all impossible. But when worries as much as he can only about him- wondrous peace in the world that two op- someone wants to gather together with self who will merit having the Rebbe reveal posites will be able to live together, as a everyone in his heart, and he loves everyone himself … The opposite is true: someone result of the great awareness of Hashem at who came to the Kibbutz (all the different who helps someone else, and smiles at oth- that time. Through awareness, peace is in- groups and the Minyanim), then this is what ers and helps those who are coming for the creased, for anger and cruelty is nullified it means that everyone is gathered together. first time to get settled, and whose heart is through awareness. Anger and cruelty are Then, even if not everyone is able to pray together with everyone else, he can stand in the result of a lack of awareness, as it is together in one Minyan (as we all know is a far corner of the Tziyun and the Rebbe will written (Koheles 7), “Anger rests in the lap the case on Rosh Hashanah), it is still consid- still reveal himself to him. of fools”. The more knowledge is increased; ered to be one large Minyan because all the May Hashem help us that this year will be a the more mercy is increased in the world… hearts are together as if they are one. year of unity and love at the holy Kibbutz in The Rebbe therefore said, “The world will The same way it occurred on Har Sinai when Uman, and in this merit Hashem should say marvel at the love between us.” He knew the Torah was given, there were tens of “enough” to our pain and let all its curses that he left over such an amazing knowledge thousands of people around the mountain, end and let a new year of blessing begin, and understanding of Hashem for us. One and they of course weren’t able to see each and let us all see the coming of Moshiach of love and peace, and he believed that his other, and they didn’t all know each other, and the building of the Beis HaMikdash, and followers would certainly have this aware- but their heart was together, and this uni- let our eyes see Hashem return mercifully to ness, and thus the world would marvel at fied them. Everything is dependent on the Zion, speedily in our days, Amen. the love between them. The Rebbe knew heart, with love, and a will. what type of wonderful path he was leading We thus find that the size of the Kibbutz is 16 WHY WE TRAVEL TO THE TZADDIK by Rav Yitzchak Meir Morgenstern shlit”a

Restoring Our Aveidos intentions since every human being is filled with your words.” with falsehood and deceit. People tend to Although Hashem is with us wherever we Rebbe Nachman writes in Likutei Moharan: feel that if there is some area he is not fol- may be even when we sin, we must take care “Know that one must travel to the Tzaddik to lowing the path of Hashem, chas v’shalom, not to allow this to serve as an excuse for seek what he has lost. Before a person enters he can just gloss it over by learning a few continuing negative behavior.10 Instead, one the world, he is shown and taught everything extra pages of gemara and poskim or by do- should think simply that Hashem wishes us to he needs to do in his Divine serve and every- ing other mitzvos. He figures that such ac- acknowledge our sins, not to falsify His thing that he must grasp during his sojourn in tions will atone for his failings, but in truth Name. We must do teshuvah with clear un- this world. But the moment he enters the this in itself is a spiritual failing since this is derstanding and honest acceptance to atmosphere of this world he immediately similar to a Torah scroll that has a blemish. 2 change for the better. forgets everything. Now, forgetting is an Although the rest of the Torah may be per- aspect of a lost object, as we see from the fect, this Torah still falsifies the King’s Name, This is similar to the famous gemara that if way our sages describe a forgetful person: as the Zohar states. It further states there even a completely wicked man asks a woman ‘Quick to hear and quick to lose.’ It is our task that they remove this person from the super- to marry him on condition that he is a com- to search for what we have mislaid. The nal mesivtah, from the heavenly academy. pletely righteous person, she must get a di- Tzaddik of the generation searches for what *One tears his clothes if he is present at a vorce from him, since perhaps he had hon- he has lost until he finds it. He then begins to death just as he does if he sees a Torah scroll estly entertained a thought of teshuvah at search out what others have mislaid and desecrated, chas v’shalom because the two the time.11 We see that teshuvah is a process finds their ‘lost objects’ as well. For this rea- are really one.6+ in the mind, in one’s Da’as. son one must go to the wise man to search for and recognize what he has lost so that he Instead of attempting to attempting to bribe This is how the verse in Parshas Vayeileich ִכ ְּתבּו ָל ֶכם ֶאת ַה ִשי ָרה ַהז ֹאת 3 can recover it. Hashem, so to speak, by doing lots of mitzvos will be fulfilled: - in order to continue sinning, one who sees Write for yourselves this song...”12 Although “However, the Tzaddik does not restore lost that he has a spiritual blemish in some area this verse is referring to Parshas Ha’azinu objects to their claimant until he checks the of mitzvah observance or in his character which is to follow, we can also understand seeker to ensure that he is not a lying trick- should completely let go of the sin and re- this as an exhortation to restore the letters ,pent. It is only then that Hashem will forgive *of the commandments that were violated ' ַעד :ster. As our sages learn from the verse And *the object+ him; not by pretending that Hashem does and which are “etched on one’s bones”13+ to - ְּדר ֹׁש ָא ִחיָך א ֹתֹו,וַ ֲה ֵׁׁשב ֹתֹו לֹו' shall be with you until your brother require it not see every single sin. It is regarding this their original place, so that the beautiful *literally, ‘until you investigate your brother’+ that the Tzaddik checks if one is deceitful or fourfold song of the ultimate future will ring and you shall restore it to him’—the object not. Does the person seek to give up the sin out.14 *Our sages teach that when a person will remain with you until you have checked or does he wish to continue doing what he develops true understanding it is as though carefully to ensure that your brother is not a has done until now? the Beis Hamikdash has been rebuilt in his 4 fraud.’ ” time.15 We see that, for him at least, the rec- One must know that Hashem is not a tyrant. tification has already materialized. It follows The meaning of Rebbe Nachman’s words is Hashem has no desire that we accomplish that one who restores his understanding by that every Jew comes to the world to prepare that which is truly beyond our ability. But He doing teshuvah accesses this song to a cer- and grasp his proper spiritual inheritance wants us to be honest with him and admit tain extent.+ through serving Hashem. But since he lost our sins and repent the evil that we have what he was taught *in the womb, and even done. *This is the lowest level of teshuvah This is why it is important for a person to later; that is, his spiritual direction and deep and is accepted—and it is also relatively easy travel to the Tzaddik on Rosh Hashanah so connection, it is as though he had lost+ a part to accomplish.7+ One who has done this is that he can search for what he has lost. He of his neshamah. But he can recover it by immediately forgiven, as the verse states: does this by searching out his heart to ensure have forgiven in accordance that he speaks truthfully from his heart. This ” ָס ַל ְּח ִתי ִכ ְּד ָב ֶרָך“ going to the Tzaddik . However, the Tzaddik can only restore what each person has lost in with your words,”8 since Hashem is not over- is the only way to complete one’s mission in accordance with how connected he is to the ly harsh with us. The Tzaddikim are also not Divine service by truly returning to Him, Tzaddik. One can only connect to the Tzaddik cruel to us, but they check if the person is heart and soul, and meriting redemption, inasmuch as he sanctifies his limbs and sin- sincere in his teshuvah from the depths of his speedily in our days, Amen! ews. When a person is not careful to sanctify heart or if he is trying to “falsify Hashem’s Moshe Never Died himself, he is filled with doubts about the Name.” Tzaddik until he *either does teshuvah or+ Our sages teach that Moshe did not actually This explains the astonishing statement of 16 incites controversy against the Tzaddik . *Of die. They learn this from the verses them- Rav Pinchas of Koritz, that falsehood should וַיָ ָמת “ :course, this takes time and there are many selves. In one place, the Torah states be as serious a sin in one’s eyes as forbidden 17 — ”+And he died there *at Har Nevo - ”ׁשָ ם levels to sanctifying oneself, but at the very relations. When people come to this level, least one must wish to attain holiness with and in another verse describing Moshe’s as- Moshiach will arrive.9This explains why we ”וַיְּ ִהי ה' ָׁשם ִעם ה'“ :his entire heart. As Rebbe Nachman writes, if cent to Mount Sinai it says say Selichos. We admit the truth and tell Ha- one yearns to be “absorbed” by the holiness - And *Moshe+ was there with Hashem.” The shem that we recognize the magnitude of of the Tzaddik he will merit this, but if not sages taught, “Just as when he was there at 5 our sins and that we wish to refrain from then he is not truly close to the Tzaddik. + Sinai he stood before Hashem to serve Him, such negative behavior in the future. And so too later when he was there at Mount The Tzaddik must first clarify the seeker’s Hashem says, “I have forgiven in accordance Nevo did he stand before Hashem and serve certain that the path of the true Tzaddikim is that any ruach hakodesh they have is a result Him.” In addition, regarding Moshe’s immi- not the way to truly serve Hashem. *This is of Hashem’s unity with them; their words are nent death, Hashem told him, “Behold, you despite the fact that their fear of heaven is as therefore His words. This is obvious to any- will lie with your fathers”—you will lie down, dry as brittle tinder, for all their learning.24+ one who realizes that everything is Elokus, but you will get up again.18 Instead of viewing their feelings with humility since if one understands that the entire crea- and seeing that their sins are causing them to tion is from Hashem, his whole mission will This teaches us that we should not believe argue on the true Tzaddik, they instead as- surely to be connect to the source of all. It is that Moshe died and remained dead in the sume that the Tzaddik is mistaken and search only because, “Hashem is not in my midst simple sense. Instead, Moshe—and all the for what appear to be deficiencies in the that all of these troubles have found me.” true Tzaddikim—serve Hashem just like when Tzaddik. Only one who does not understand that the they were physically alive in the world. Our entire creation is filled with Hashem will sages teach that, in a way, the Tzaddikim Instead of admitting that we are filled with make such terrible errors in understanding serve Hashem on an even higher level after sin - that we have not begun to truly purify the Tzaddikim. One should not feel that con- they leave the world since Tzaddikim are our eyes, ears, nose and mouth, along with nection to Tzaddikim is an unimportant as- greater after they die than they were when our other limbs -we are filled with arrogance pect of avodas Hashem, since this is a big they were physically alive.19 toward our spiritual betters. error. The greatest Tzaddikim purified them- Generally, people argue on the Tzaddikim by selves to such an extent that every atom of וְָּא ַמר :The verse states in Parshas Vayeileich saying that we cannot understand their To- their being was completely refined and they ַביֹום ַההּוא, ֲהֹלא ַעל ִכי- ֵׁאין ֱאֹל ַקי ְּב ִק ְּר ִבי ְּמ ָצאּונִי They will say in that day: Are rah. These people claim that they do not see were absolutely one with the Creator. It is“ - ָה ָרעֹות ָה ֵׁא ֶלה not these evils come upon us because our G- any of the Divine spirit in the Torah of the surely fitting for every Jew to be enrobed in 20 d is not among us?” The Arizal teaches that true Tzaddikim and reject them. Clearly, such the soul of Moshe and the other great the words, “our G-d is not among us,” allude a person cannot possibly love and cherish the Tzaddikim. to the failure to connect oneself to the soul true Tzaddikim *since he fails to grasp their The Arizal discusses the Rambam’s teaching of our teacher Moshe on the level of nefesh greatness+. b’nefesh, ruach b’ruach, and neshamah that every Jew can be like our teacher Moshe For this reason, our main spiritual work is to 26 b’neshamah—in a comprehensive way, in a similar vein. Everyone should be en- search after the deeper meaning of the Torah through all levels of the soul. This is the rea- robed with the neshamah of our Moshe of the Tzaddik , since one’s sins can only dis- son why one feels distant from Hashem. He Rabbeinu, just as we find that various sages tort the outer Torah but not its essence. It is feels that Hashem is not with him, G-d forbid, of the Talmud called each other Moshe: only when one does not search for the inner 27 because he is far from the true Tzaddikim.21 “Moshe, you have spoken beautifully.” This essence that one can gloss over the beauty indicates that it is only through connection However, a person who comes to purify him- and the charm of the true Tzaddikim. When with the soul of Moshe that one speaks 22 self will be assisted. The Medrash in this state, a person places the Tzaddikim in beautiful words of Torah. Hane’elam explains that this means that the an aspect of the death of, “And you will lie We must seek to escape from the klippos, soul of a Tzaddik joins him and aids him in with your fathers,” but the moment he looks the forces of impurity that distance us from his Divine service by binding his nefesh with deeper he merits the aspect of continued life the truth. As a result of our many sins, we try the nefesh of a Tzaddik, and his ruach with of the words, “and you shall rise.” Since the to justify our errors and even have com- the ruach of a Tzaddik, and his neshamah Tzaddikim are an aspect of Moshe, they are 23 plaints against Hashem instead of admitting with the neshamah of a Tzaddik. *Nefesh filled with humility and will accept any per- that, “we and our fathers have sinned.” Simi- refers to actions, while ruach is speech, and son who approaches them with a genuine larly, in an effort to assuage guilty feelings, neshamah is thought. This means that the desire to change. actions, words, and thoughts of one who people claim that the spirit of Hashem does A person who strengthens himself to look for truly wishes to do teshuvah are imbued with not rest on the true Tzaddikim. the truth will get up and—despite all appar- the holiness of an earlier Tzaddik who ex- What, then, should one do if he is in such a ent barriers and blocks—will travel to the celled in what this baal teshuvah has trouble low spiritual state? In that case he must true Tzaddikim to attain a spiritual rectifica- with. In this context we can understand why grasp that although he has sustained a spir- tion which is an aspect of the resurrection of Rebbe Nachman said that now that the itual descent, Hashem is still with him despite the dead. He will grasp the holiness of the Tzaddikim have already passed through the the sin. In this manner he is like Yehudah. bones of Yosef which Moshe took with him world before us it is easier for us to stand Although we find that Yehudah fell, as the out of Egypt.25 *The word atzmos, comes strong and succeed in a spiritual test.+ verse states: “And Yehudah descended from from the Hebrew word etzem, which means his brothers...”28 shortly afterward, “Yehudah In this manner, one merits to connect to the the innermost essence.+ This hints that approached and said, ‘Please, my Master understanding of our teacher Moshe and the Moshe draws the light of Hashem into the *literally, ‘My Master is in me’+.”29 This teach- other true Tzaddikim who show one how bones of the Jewish people through the es that no matter where a person has fallen, best to reveal Hashem in the world. But one Tzaddikim. The Tzaddikim embody the deep he is still with Hashem whose glory fills the who sadly is not connected to the true understanding of every Jew whose mission is earth. In this manner, one will regain his orig- Tzaddikim will find many types of evil and will to reveal G-dliness in the material world. feel that Hashem is not within him. inal strength and spiritual health. Avoiding Error Fighting Against the True Tzaddik At that point, he will admit his sins and un- But of course one must never make the terri- derstand that they preventing him from The more one falls into material desires, the ble mistake of thinking that the Tzaddikim grasping the light of the Tzaddikim. He is in more questions and doubts he will have on have some kind of independent power with- an aspect of not having “Hashem in his the true Tzaddikim. These people will feel out Hashem, chas v’shalom. We must know midst,” since he does not grasp that Hashem 18 fills the entire universe. This keeps him from searched for Him throughout the year. Each deep counsel embedded in their written receiving the neshamos of the Tzaddikim. of the six hundred and thirteen mitzvos is a works until our understanding should be like Because he lacks true trust in Hashem, branch of spiritual life that reveals Hashem’s theirs and our nefesh should be bound up “these many misfortunes have found me.” Kingship in the world *since we follow His will with theirs. In this manner the spirit of impu- because He is our King+. rity which causes people to forget Hashem Even if a person is filled with the “snakes and will depart from the world and we will merit scorpions,” of sinful thoughts, he must It is precisely because we have been distant to see, “eye to eye the return of Hashem to strengthen himself with the boundless light from truly declaring Hashem’s Kingship Tzion,” speedily in our days. Amen! of Hashem which transcends every intellect. throughout the year that we have ignored Even on Rosh Hashanah when a person is His will and done so many sins. We have not Footnotes: written in Hashem’s book and he must be really wished to make Him our King at all. 2Niddah 30b very vigilant to purify his thoughts and un- Why didn’t we search to make Him the King 3 derstanding, if a person sees that his heart over every limb? Why didn't we have faith in Avos 5:11 the true Tzaddikim who truly understand 4 and head are not with him because of the Likutei Moharan I:188 heavenly accusations levied against him, he how to become one with the light of Ha- 5 must not be afraid at all. Instead, he should shem? Only they have the power to impart Devarim 22:2; Bava Metzia 27b encourage himself with a powerful bitachon, this understanding to anyone who truly 6Likutei Moharan I:129 trust in Hashem, who is above all thought. He searches for this path. We did not merit to be 7 must make every effort to declare Hashem’s enrobed by the souls of the Tzaddikim even Shabbos 105b; Moed Katan 25a Kingship over himself and the entire world when we learned Torah since our sins have 8Rav Chaim Volozhiner in Kesser L’Rosh even while he endures a difficult spiritual erected many barriers. We were not evening 9 state. He must know that Hashem is King and thinking about becoming a vehicle for the Bamidbar 14:20 every spiritual state comes from Him. Even Shechinah as we learned. 10Imrei Pinchas, Sha’ar 6, Darkei Avodas Ha- the truly righteous can do nothing without A person must never say, “It is enough for me shem, #78 Hashem, since everything is from Him. that I serve Hashem by simply fulfilling His 11Tomer Devorah One should be especially encouraged if he commandments.’ Although all of the 12Kiddushin 49b merits to go to pray at the earthly resting Tzaddikim served Hashem with complete place of the Tzaddikim who have left the simplicity, one must aspire to truly follow in 13Devarim 31:19 physical world, or even to pray with the living the footsteps of the Tzaddikim who exerted 14Likutei Moharan I:4 Tzaddikim of his generation. One must re- tireless efforts over a long period of time to member that every deliverance is entirely in grasp the light of the Shechinah. This is the 15Ibid., II:8:1 Hashem’s hands. Through connecting to Ha- only way to find the Shechinah, and it takes a 16Berachos 33a shem, we draw down a great light and the very long time, as we find in the holy Zohar. 17 souls of the Tzaddikim come to us to help us We must follow in the path of the Tzaddikim Sotah 13b be victorious in every aspect of our Divine by searching for the ruach hakodesh hidden 18Devarim 34:5 service. in their written works through learning them 19 diligently over a long period of time. Ulti- Ibid., 31:16; Sanhedrin 90b Letting Go of the Sin mately, these works will shine to us like 20Chulin 7b When a Jew knocks on the doors of teshuvah priceless diamonds and jewels. 21 to plead for his soul, he must understand Devarim 31:17 “Let Your Soul Know Wisdom” that Hashem certainly wants to forgive him 22Shaar Halikutim, Parshas Vayeileich דעה חכמה “ :and that the Jewish people should all be- This is the meaning of the phrase 23 Let your soul know Shabbos 104a - ”לנפשך והיא כתר לראשך come truly righteous. Yet as long as one holds on to his sins, he cannot truly be forgiv- (d’ei) wisdom (Chochmah), and it will be a 24Brought in Shaar Hagilgulim, Hakdamah #1 crown (Kesser) for your head.”30 We must en since he does not draw the illumination of 25 Hashem upon him. It was the absence of this draw down the light of Hashem into our Based on a letter of the Ramchal. light that caused the sins in the first place. As nefesh, our lowest aspects. Even if we have 26Shemos 13:19 long as one does not truly recognize his sins sinned we must act with true Chochmah and 27Rambam, Hilchos Teshuvah 2 *that is what he does wrong and how de- realize that Hashem is still with us even if we structive his behavior is+ it is very hard to have sinned. We can then see the light of the 28See Kehillas Yaakov, Erech Af attain true forgiveness since the purpose of true Tzaddikim and merit true teshuvah and 29Bereishis 38:1 creation is that we recognize Hashem and we forgiveness. In this manner we will merit, “a cannot do this while we cling to our sins. crown to our head”—the light of Kesser, the 30Ibid. 44:18 illumination where one is completely one Hashem wishes for us to reveal his Kingship, 31From the Shabbos zemer “D’ror Yikrah,” with Hashem. At this level, sins are trans- the aspect of Malchus, throughout all the based on Mishlei 24:14. formed into merits and become crowns on worlds. *And it for this express purpose that one’s head, through the merit of the true he created this material world which appears Tzaddikim. so distant from anything spiritual.+ This is the Translated and Adapted by “famine that was in the land”—the famine of The All-Merciful One should have mercy on Rav Micha Golshevsky G-dly awareness. It is for this purpose that us and draw into each of us the understand- the King of justice, ing of our teacher Moshe and all of the ,מלך המשפט the determines exactly how much each of us has Tzaddikim. We should merit to discover the SAFEGUARDS AGAINST OVERLOAD 19 by Rav Lazer Brody shlit”a

If we had truly spiritual eyes, we would see Hashem), so we can still grab more and the Rebbe doesn’t care if we pray or not on that the holiness of Uman is virtually blind- more. The Rebbe says that this is an especial- Rosh Hashana? ly important principle for a Baal Teshuva, to ing, like looking directly into the sun. We all No, that’s not what the Rebbe meant. understand that sun-gazing is certainly dan- compensate for the years that he spent with- gerous without proper protective dark glass- out serving Hashem. The Rebbe knows full well that when we come to Uman, we get supercharged with es; the same goes for exposing one’s skin to So what do we do, serve Hashem gradually high-voltage desire to serve Hashem. The direct summertime low-latitude sunlight and within the bounds of our current spiritu- problem is that some people get super high without using a protective sun-screening al level or fly as fast as we can, grabbing exposure, fly up on a cloud way beyond their cream. Both are examples of more solar light more and more? than the body can handle. Such unlimited spiritual level, then crash land and lose eve- exposure could result in blindness or severe Hashem illuminated my heart with the fol- rything. How so? lowing explanation that resolves the above- burns, Heaven forbid. When we leave the Rebbe’s gravesite on mentioned apparent contradiction in Torah Rosh Hashana eve and now move over to the Uman is the site of the greatest sanctification 49: We must climb the successive rungs from Kloiz, we expect that we should now be of Hashem’s name in history, where the sa- one spiritual level to the next higher one plucking angels out of the sky with the power distic Cossacks under Ivan Gonta barbarously safely and gradually, to prevent the type of of our prayers. Those high expectations are slaughtered 33,000 Jews. Not a single one of ribui or and spiritual burnout that blinds and ribui or – too much light - and dangerous. those Jews were willing to bow down to a topples so many would-be servants of Ha- Many Uman-goers become spiritual casual- cross to save their own lives. Rebbe shem, especially new Baalei Teshuva. On the ties when they don’t feel a holy spirit of per- Nachman – born a mere four years after that other hand, within the boundaries of our fect kavanna permeating their prayers. Then infamous Uman pogrom of 1768 – wanted to current spiritual level, we have to do all the what happens? They crash land and fall into be buried there because it’s such sacred learning, praying, and mitzvah fulfillment as deep despair, right then and there during ground. we can, for there’s no time like the present. Rosh Hashana in Uman. They walk around My beloved Rabbi and teacher Rav Shalom Rebbe Nachman promised that his fire will with either a bewildered or depressed look Arush, may Hashem bless him always, burn ever so brightly until the coming of on their faces, regretting that they ever came affirmed that the above explanation is cor- Moshiach. That’s why his light is so bright. So to the Ukraine for Rosh Hashana. That’s ex- rect. between Rebbe Nachman and the sanctity of actly what the Yetzer Hara wants. Uman, a person enters a hall of very strong Rav Shalom Arush emphasizes that hit’orre- Some people have the crash even before illumination. rut – spiritual arousal – is dangerous unless Rosh Hashana, when they go to the tziyyun, it’s coupled with hitchazkut, or spiritual rein- Both Kabbala and physics teach that one and the Rebbe doesn’t reveal himself to forcement. True hit’orrerut therefore must must have a suitable receptacle to harness, them. This is a combination of fantasy, arro- be accompanied by tzimtzum, limitations, contain, and utilize energy. The physical and gance, and yes – too much light. the metaphysical worlds operate according just as raw electricity must go through a relay to similar principles. One easily understands station, transformer, and circuit breaker be- So what if “all the other guys” say that the that a 40-Watt build will burst if it receives fore it is allowed to reach our light bulb or Rebbe revealed himself to them? Remember 500 Watts of direct current. We are therefore toaster. For every watt of hit’orrerut – the the cobbler with the three-pointed shoe? not doing that light bulb a favor by added spiritual light of arousal – we must That’s their deal, and this is my deal! I should attempting to illuminate it with twelve times have the equivalent hitchazkut, or spiritual rejoice that I have the privilege of being with the current that it can stand. We therefore strengthening of the vessel that has the capa- the Rebbe and the kibbutz on Rosh Hashana! must do one of two things – either get a bility of holding that light. To paraphrase I should grab every moment of prayer, learn- stronger light bulb with a greater capacity, or Rebbe Natan, who was even more careful, ing, and hitchazkut. I should take advantage somehow limit the amount of current that for every ounce of hit’orrerut, we need a of the round-the-clock shiurim, and grab reaches the light bulb, or both. pound of hitchazkut. whatever I can! But, all this should be within my own spiritual level; without becoming a How do we know when we are properly lim- In Likutei Moharan I, Torah 49, we see an spiritual casualty by being burned with more iting the spiritual “current”, or light that is apparent contradiction: the Rebbe says, “By light than I can handle. limiting one’s enthusiasm, one learns how to flowing our way? Simple – when we’re happy do things in proper measure, in other words, with what we have. That doesn’t mean that The main sign of spiritual burnout is depres- to serve Hashem gradually and within we don’t yearn, strive and pray for more – sion while the sign of proper avoda is bounds.” By “within bounds,” the Rebbe is we do! But we should be happy with what sameach b’chelko – happy with what we teaching that if we are 75-Watt bulbs, then we’re doing right now, just as it is. This is the have. secret of what Rabbenu told us in his declara- we shouldn’t zap ourselves with 150 Watts of Let’s enjoy Uman’s bright light. Let’s do our tion that behooves all of us to attend the power until we either strengthen our recep- best to strengthen ourselves, but in the annual Rosh Hashana kibbutz in Uman: Ya tacle or limit the incoming light, otherwise meanwhile, let’s be mighty happy with what shloffin, nisht shloffin; ya essen, nisht essen; we’ll shatter ourselves, Heaven forbid. We’ll we have. A ktiva v’chatima tova for us and ya davenin, nisht davenin … Whether or not soon explain what this means in practical for all of Israel, amen. terms. we succeed to eat, sleep, or even pray in Uman – the Rebbe nonetheless wants to see Reprinted with kind permission of Yet, at the end of Torah 49, the Rebbe says, Ir us in the kibbutz of his chassidim on Rosh www.breslev.co.il darft zich zeir yoggin, ir zolt noch kennin ep- Hashana. pis chappen! In other words, the Rebbe is telling us to be really agile (in our avodat You might think this is totally weird: What, 20 THE SECRET OF EMUNAS CHACHAMIM A PRACTICAL GUIDE By Rav Nissan David Kivak, Shlit”a

*A Summary based on the original Hebrew+ pose for which he was created, is to dis- 9. The only way to come to this faith and cover Hashem within those garments and awareness is through connection to and 1. We believe that every practice that the reveal Who created everything - to see belief in the Tzaddikim, since they are the Rebbe instructed us to do has very deep through to the Torah and inner meaning ones who have revealed these secrets to meaning, especially his instruction to be cloaked within the world and to under- us, that everything contains hidden with him for Rosh Hashanah, which he stand to the best of his abilities the se- meaning and secrets. They are the ones himself said was his “whole thing.” We crets behind the external coverings. If a who bring us to true Emunah, to love and believe that there is nothing greater than person is not capable of comprehending fear of Hashem, to cleaving to Him, to the kibbutz, the gathering to be near him, this, then through his connection to the true humility. Especially after a person on Rosh Hashanah. For sure this also con- Tzaddik and his belief that all that the has sinned, G-d forbid, only the Tzaddik tains very deep great secrets, and this is Tzaddik does is based on deep supernal can fix him and bring him back to true why we travel with such self-sacrifice, secrets, all judgments on him are sweet- awareness and faith, to remember that and overlook all the obstacles, to be with ened and he can come himself to fully there are deep secrets in everything and him for Rosh Hashanah. believe in the secrets hidden in every- that his every deed has great meaning – 2. Fulfilling the Rebbe’s instructions with thing. He knows that even if he does not whether for reward or punishment. The self-nullification and with faith that hid- comprehend them, the Tzaddik does. Tzaddikim are the ones who reveal to us the hidden meaning in every mitzvah and den in them are the deepest secrets and 6. Man was created on Rosh Hashanah and deed, and they are the ones who com- tremendous rectifications, draws down his primary task was to believe in and plete and perfect all of our service and and refreshes our belief in this for the comprehend the secrets inherent in eve- elevate it to its supernal source, through whole year – that all the Rebbe’s direc- rything in the world. This day was there- our connection to them. tives are not simple at all, but rather con- fore set aside as a day of judgment - to tain very deep secrets. This faith enables arouse him to remember his task of un- 10. Belief in the Tzaddik, that his every action us to fulfil all his instructions with great covering this deeper dimension, and to is based on deep supernal secrets, brings enthusiasm and vitality and enter into do teshuva for having forgotten to do so. a person to understand what levels of the faith that, in truth, everything in this On this day we have to do teshuva and perfection man can reach. He sees that in world is full of deep, holy secrets. coronate Hashem with our belief that His truth, there is no such thing as a mean- 3. Everyone needs to arouse and refresh his glory can be found in everything in this ingless action. If this is true of the belief in this every day - that the whole world. Then all the harsh judgments are Tzaddik, then it is true of him too – his creation, down to its tiniest detail, is full sweetened when we blow the Shofar. every action also contains deep meaning and significance. This belief arouses him of deep supernal secrets. 7. The best way to come to complete teshu- to take care that his actions do not betray 4. Since the physical world and sins prevent vah is by internalising this knowledge or contradict their deeper meaning. The a person from coming to this faith, the that everything is full of secrets and hid- stronger his faith in the Tzaddikim’s ac- best way to achieve it is by having faith in den meaning. Such awareness makes a tions, the stronger his belief in his own. the Tzaddikim, “Emunas Chachamim”. To person be careful with his every action, believe that all their deeds, words and to ensure that it is in accordance with 11. The belief in the tremendous secrets and their every move contained deep mean- Hashem’s will, because he recognises rectifications contained in every revela- ing how his every action has such deep tion the Rebbe made brings a person to and holy secrets. This belief in them recti- meaning and significance. This awareness keep all his directives with great enthusi- fies the garments of the Shechina, the also gives him the power to change him- asm and vitality, and gives him great Divine Presence, and sweetens the harsh self completely. strength to overcome all obstacles that stand in the way of fulfilling them. He will judgments that lay on us. 8. This awareness enables a person to sanc- also fulfil even the directives that seem 5. When Hashem created the world, He tify his everyday actions, by imbuing very simple and plain to understand in a contracted and concealed His light in them with holiness and purity, with way of self-nullification and connection garments within garments, to enable the awareness of Hashem, and to be less to the Rebbe, because of the great rectifi- creation to withstand it. These garments enticed by the physical appetites, since cations he knows that they must achieve. and layers, however, also created the he knows that even his everyday activi- He understands that none of the Rebbe’s possibility to mistake the external ap- ties contain deep meaning and holy directives were in any way simple. pearance and experience as being all sparks that need to be elevated. This there is, and to forget about the inner, awareness also helps a person merit ful- 12. On Rosh Hashanah we desperately need deeper dimension. This is the source of filling the most holy services, such as to escape the attribute of judgment, and all sin – we focus on the external cover getting up at midnight, Tikkun Chatzos the way to achieve this is through teshu- and get enticed by the pull of desire that and praying with great devotion, since he va, to come back to a belief that there is it exudes. We forget that there’s a deep- remembers how these services are so full hidden meaning in everything. This is er dimension to it, that Hashem’s light is of awesome spiritual meaning and se- therefore one of the main secrets and concealed within it. This is the source of crets. rectifications of Rosh Hashanah – to be- all harsh judgments. Man’s task, the pur- lieve with simple faith in the great secrets and rectifications that take place through is entirely entrapped by the externality of are sweetened. This is why there are such our journey to and gathering together at this world and that it’s impossible for him sweet and incredible melodies on Rosh the grave site of our holy Rebbe on Rosh to focus his mind on the inner dimension Hashanah to clothe the words of the Hashanah, that there is nothing greater hidden in everything – the truth is that prayers in. The melody arouses the than this. This belief itself sweetens the he’s not far from all this at all. On the recognition and belief that every word of judgments of Rosh Hashanah. The more contrary – this itself is the greatest se- the prayer contains such deep secrets. we enter into this belief on this holy day, cret, that specifically someone who’s so The melody illuminates the sweetness of and come to great joy due to the great- ‘low’ can give such tremendous delight to the meaning of each word. It arouses us ness of our Rebbe who fixed this incredi- Hashem from the very ‘low’ place he to focus in our prayers on Hashem’s ble thing for us, the more the judgments finds himself in, when he just tries to greatness and to cleave to Him. Then we are sweetened and the more mercy is think about how Hashem’s glory is found can begin to hear the melody of the revealed, in the merit of belief in everywhere, and by regretting having whole of creation, which is akin to the Tzaddikim. lived his life as he did until now, without melody that will be aroused in the future, this consciousness. Now, he longs to when Providence is revealed and the 13. The judgment of Rosh Hashanah is also come back to holiness and to remember truth of how everything contains super- about this itself – about how much a per- Hashem. He should know that with every nal secrets and Hashem’s glory will be son will merit refreshing his relationship tiny move that he makes to come back to revealed. and being close to the Rebbe in the com- Him, he shakes all the higher worlds. He ing year. Will he be inscribed in the “Book 20. Just as the service of melodies contains should understand that all the battles he of Tzaddikim” and merit the Rebbe’s holy the absolute perfection of holiness, it went through, and all the distance he light. Will he escape the emptiness and also serves as a way to begin building the felt, all contained deep supernal secrets darkness of this world that comes from holiness – a way to gather in all of our and were not at all simple. His efforts to seeing only the externality and forgetting good points from which the melodies are remember all this will open up the gates the inner dimension to everything, or will made. for him, so that he too can merit this in- he merit knowing that everything con- credible service. 21. For there are two levels of melodies. Be- tains deep secrets and succeed in reveal- fore the blowing of the Shofar, we can’t ing Hashem’s glory in everything he does. 17. This is our task in the holy days of Elul – yet sing. Our awareness is not yet on a to do teshuva and to regret having been 14. The month of Elul is when we put much level where we perceive the melodies, so caught up in forgetfulness and unaware- effort into repenting for having not lived we still go through what we go through, ness, having been caught up in constrict- with this awareness – for having not with the inability to perceive the inner ed consciousness, and to start being ‘baki sanctified our actions with the awareness dimension of everything. We make a b’shov,’ experts at returning. Through that everything contains deeper mean- start to remember, but then fall and for- this, we can also come to being ‘baki ing, either to fix or blemish, G-d forbid. get. Then we connect to the Tzaddik. We b’ratzo,’ experts at moving forward. We fix the ‘garments,’ reveal the inner believe that he knows all the secrets, and Whatever shame or embarrassment secrets in everything, and elevate the we try again ourselves to remember this comes our way, we have to know that it sparks trapped in each thing. Through all as best as we can. We believe that our isn’t stam, happenstance, but rather Di- this, together with the teshuva and pray- every attempt to start again contains vine Providence which contains hidden er that we do on Rosh Hashanah itself, great secrets and achieves a great deal, secrets, and is itself a means to serve we merit that Hashem grants us an or- and gathers more good points. From this Hashem. When we feel embarrassed, we derly life, a life where we live constantly place we strengthen ourselves and cry see how caught up we are in our own with the faith that there are secrets in out to Hashem, and the truth is that this honour and in meaningless externalities. everything - the sweet life of believing in cry itself is a most beautiful and won- We see how far we are from perceiving the Tzaddikim. drous melody, that also sweetens the the deeper reality to each event. If we judgments. Its power lies in that it reveals 15. Just as we sacrifice much to be with the accept the embarrassment in the correct a melody from such a place where there Rebbe for Rosh Hashanah, so too should way, then the mercy revealed in Elul will are apparently no melodies - we see and we sacrifice much to connect to him with shine on us and elevate us to live with understand that there are secrets even in with our focus on Hashem’sכבוד אלוקי, this belief that there is nothing simple in a place of constriction. Then, through our this world, rather everything contains glory – the focus on the hidden secrets in strengthening and encouraging of our- supernal secrets. Through this, we merit everything. selves in this place, the second level of all the rectifications of Rosh Hashanah. 18. By making a beautiful garment for the melody is revealed – the blowing of the We should also accept upon ourselves for Tzaddik, the judgments are sweetened. Shofar – that illuminates our minds and the coming year to live a life of remem- By our very coming to the Tzaddik, who is consciousness and reveals that there are bering this – that there is a hidden di- so hidden and concealed, we become secrets and an inner dimension to every- mension to everything in life, and reveal garments for him. His holy light and his thing. A new vitality is drawn down which the reality that Hashem’s glory fills the incredible instructions are revealed, and enables us to truly sense this and be world. we become absorbed within the perfect aroused by it as we should be, and we 16. Even if someone has fallen and blem- garments of the Tzaddik. are inscribed and sealed for a good life. ished a great deal, G-d forbid, and feels Amen. 19. Through melody and the clothing of the that Hashem is very far from him, that he words of prayer in melodies, judgments 22 22 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS by Rav Avrohom Yitzchok Kletzky shlit”a

Question: acts and thoughts of Yiddishkeit and awe We are standing by the threshold of of Heaven you still can. Be careful not to the holy days of Rosh Hashanah. I want to spend my time properly during fall into despair or weakness because you For those of us travelling to Uman the lengthy trip, so I usually prepare sever- can’t act or feel how you wanted to. You these days have an added al sefarim to learn and load up my MP3 are ‘on the path’ to holiness, you are not specialness, as with Hashem’s help player with Torah lectures. But while trav- we will soon merit visiting the yet there. elling I become very tired and I lose my Rebbe’s holy Tziyun and spending When you follow this advice, you will be time by him. The sanctity of these ability to focus. All the long waits are also able to draw upon yourself life-force from days thus has an additional unique, exhausting, and I lose all the drive with the “Treasury of Unearned Gifts” which immense holiness. which I started out. Hashem used to sustain the world before But as we know, as great and Answer: the Torah was received by us. exalted a time this is, are great and all encompassing, the obstacles The Torah is our source of life, as we say We are told in Shevachey HaRan that the preventing us from fully utilizing in davening, “For it is our life and the Rebbe himself during his own journey to these days. The obstacles which length of our days.” We must be swift to Eretz Yisroel also acted simply and com- begin as financial and seize every spare minute for Torah study. monly, and that’s how he merited enter- organizational difficulties reach But at the same time, we must be sensible ing Eretz Yisroel. It takes a great deal of their peak with emotional enough to know ourselves and to be fa- shrewdness to be able to be in constricted obstacles. miliar with the limitations we have while circumstances, and to still simply hold Chazal teach us that “whoever is travelling. We should come prepared with oneself and take energy from whatever greater than his friend has a easy sefarim which don’t require a lot of possible. stronger negative inclination than concentration, and which can be appeal- him, too.” We are the ing even when we aren’t so up to learn- This doesn’t mean that we are supposed representatives of Klal Yisroel in our ing. You can prepare inspiring shiurim to to put ourselves into hard and difficult journey to the Tzaddik, and we are situations. On the contrary, take sefarim therefore carrying difficult tests on listen to; you can recite from those books and an MP3 player with Torah lectures, behalf of the entire nation, and in of which there’s a custom to recite from etc. just like you planned. But at the same much greater potency. This is the during Elul: Tikkunei Zohar, Likutei Mo- cause of all the difficult questions, haran, Sichos HaRan, Sipurei Maasiyot, time keep in mind that the same way we concerns and confusing thoughts Sefer HaMidos, and Tehillim. You can even can serve Hashem by the holiness of actu- which people tend to have, read inspiring stories of Tzaddikim which ally receiving the Torah and studying it, particularly concerning these days bring your heart closer to Hashem. we can also serve Him on the “path” to of the holy Kibbutz. that same holiness, and to then connect Of course, the travelling as well as the Amalek’s power is hidden in his ourselves to that same life-force which name, which is the same gematria strenuous waits, coupled with the shrill sustained the world “before” the Torah as ‘Safek’, doubt. Doubt and background noises, complaining and was revealed. Therefore, don’t feel bad confusion rob us of so much of our shouting, etc. wear a person out both when you see that you are not learning precious time, and especially from physically and psychologically. Just as you and properly using your time while travel- our important needed mental and said, it’s difficult to focus during all of this. ling, and don’t persecute yourself because emotional capacities. You should know that concerning just this you’ve lost all your motivation. Recently, we have received many the Rebbe revealed a amazing secret in questions regarding the journey Liven yourself up with the simple joy of Likutei Moharan II 78: Before achieving and stay by the Tziyun. We present your Yiddishkeit and performing Mitzvos. here answers to many of them, in anything holy there is a path on which we Live with Hashem. Talk about Emunah order to set things straight and must pass through in order to reach that with those next to you, and reflect how clarify them accurately. In so doing holiness. This path is one of a lot of petty everything happening to you during this we hope to eliminate avoidable feelings, situations in which it’s impossible journey is from Hashem. Even when confusion and anxiety, and at the to learn anything at all, and when there you’re tired, daven from a siddur, make same time to provide almost isn’t anything with which to revive Berachos with concentration, be vigilant encouragement for all those who oneself. are seeking Hashem with courage, in watching your eyes, and keep on spirit and cheerfulness. The advice for such situations is simplicity starting again every time you fall. You can and innocence, meaning that you should even liven yourself up with kosher music. simply hold strong onto whatever simple Everything should be with joy and liveli- ness with the awareness that you really are serving Hashem now. Keep in mind cry is itself a ‘foreign thought’ during pray- Hashem, to join together with the rest of that your service of Hashem now is to be a er. Klal Yisroel. “simple Jew”. This is the preparation for Another point which should be noted is On the other hand, don’t think that every- receiving the Torah. This is how you will the importance of setting aside fixed one is serving Hashem and you aren’t. come to Rebbe with freshness, and you times for Torah study in Uman, in any Sef- Strengthen yourself that you also have a will merit with Hashem’s help to awaken er. The holy Torah is the tool through job in crowning Hashem, and you are per- yearning and desire by yourself. which to refresh the mind and open the sonally needed. If it weren’t so, you It’s good to keep in mind the Rebbe’s heart to prayer. wouldn’t have merited standing in this words in Sefer HaMidos: “It’s worth it to place. It must be that an authentic Avodah Question: spend much time in order to be by the is needed from you now: to strengthen Tzaddik even if just for an hour.” From It’s difficult for me to encourage myself yourself with knowing that Hashem is with here we see that the journey itself is with my simple Avodah when it seems as if you and by you, and to continue to say Avodas Hashem. He also said “I wish on everyone around me are so full of feeling, the words of davening and Tehillim word myself that I merit seeing the clear light of and it makes me feel dejected. by word according to your ability, and so the path which you take to me.” There- on. Answer: fore, be strong and liven yourself with Question: Hashem, even without any spirit, even if Dejection is a feeling that a person gets you can’t learn, and stay with your simple when he is concentrating on himself, and There are so many people in Uman. The Yiras Shomayim. judges himself in proportion to other peo- crowd is so diverse with so many different ple. You should know that the core types and mentalities, with different cus- Question: Avodas Hashem, especially on Rosh toms and habits. The rainbow of colors I want very much to get to Uman, and to Hashanah, is to elevate yourself to think totally confuses me. I feel very far from come close to Hashem through the only about Hashem’s kingship and the joy any sense of serenity and the environment Tzaddik. But when I’m there, I feel as if my which He has from this world from us which I am used to, especially when I see heart is stuffed-up. crowning Him, and not to focus so much people behaving improperly. on your own self. All of Klal Yisroel crowns Answer: Answer: Him together as our King. Everyone has You should know, that the Sefarim teach his own personal share and job, and no We are taught that the base of ac- us that one of the signs of holiness is not two people are alike. ceptance of prayer is love between being able to feel any light at the start. friends. This doesn’t mean that everyone How is each person supposed to know This is how holiness works. It starts out has to act the same. Obviously, everybody what is his individual job? You don’t need narrow, and as we continue to be involved has his own customs and habits, and there a lot of insight. Everyone just has to do in it, it continues to widen for us. There- are undoubtedly those who act improper- whatever he is capable of at that moment, fore, don’t expect that immediately when ly. You yourself must have self-clarity re- just simply take a Sefer and say and recite you get to the Tziyun your heart will open garding what actions are proper and what what is written in it. The main thing is to up and you‘ll cry and pray from the depths aren’t. Connect yourself to appropriate remember and believe that at this mo- of your heart. Be patient; take a Tikkun people and you should see to conduct ment I am honoring Hashem. HaKlali, Tehillim, etc. and simply recite the yourself with holiness and Derech Eretz, words. If you can, say each word with a If you get taken aback by other people especially during the Rosh Hashanah days, pleasant tune, serenely, and try to pay who are davening better than you are, on and try to bear in mind awe of Hashem. attention to what you are saying. The the contrary, look at them and appreciate On the other hand, the Rebbe taught in main thing is to remember that every how admirable is the nation which has Likutei Moharan II 40, that the splendor word that you say is very dear to Hashem such people, so many Yidden are crown- which Hashem sees in His nation is re- and that you have merited that you are ing Hashem now. How much enjoyment vealed on Rosh Hashanah by the Tzaddik, speaking to Hashem in such a holy place. Hashem has from this, how immense is when there is a large gathering of many my lot that I’ve merited being a part of If you will be diligent in this, you might people who want to serve Hashem. such a holy group of people. merit that your heart may perhaps open There are people who would say that the up in the course of your davening. But In Chayei Moharan we are told how the Rebbe didn’t really mean certain types of don’t force yourself. Anxiety is the main Rebbe reprimanded R’ Lipa about his not people which they feel don’t really want thing which prevents a person from inspi- having visited for a long time by saying, to come closer to Avodas Hashem… You rational feelings. The Rebbe taught in Li- “Why didn’t you at least share your should know that these types of argu- kutei Moharan II 95 that the thought a Avodah together with the rest of the ments emanate from the Yetzer Hara. person has when praying that he hopes to group?”. This is the main way to crown Hashem looks at the deepest truth which 24 lies in the heart of each and every person, next week.” This is crowning Hashem with ers.) and how can us small people comprehend simplicity. *Speaking to the Tzaddik when not by the the enjoyment which Hashem has from Question: Tziyun is a subject unto itself. But to speak us. Thank Hashem that you yourself have with him by the Tziyun is definitely possi- an idea of what holiness and proper be- What is the custom of Breslover Chassi- ble, as the Rebbe told his daughter that havior is, something which not everyone dim, to speak with Rebbe by the Tziyun, or it’s the same thing as when he was alive, has. to daven to Hashem in the Tzaddik’s mer- that he can be spoken to from behind the it? This is the main Avodah of Rosh Hasha- door.+ nah, to get out of the focus on the “I” and Answer: Question: “my personal Avodah” and “my personal Chassidim do speak with the Rebbe, the advancement” and to reflect on Hashem’s Is speaking to the Rebbe considered part same way he was spoken to while he was kingship. This is made possible particularly of Hisbodedus, or must the time of His- alive. Reb Noson writes that after the Reb- when you find yourself in the midst of bodedus be separate from talking to the be passed away, before the burial, he sat such an enormous and varied crowd Rebbe? next to him and told him everything he which is not all your type. Here it’s easier hadn’t had a chance to while he was alive. Answer: to internalize that you are but one small The Rebbe also told his daughter that part of this holy people. We are all here Hisbodedus contains within it many parts: after his burial it will be as if he will be together, everyone with his special part, thanking Hashem, requests, self- going from one room to another. If she crowning Hashem. accounting, mourning for loss, crying, would scream, “Father”, wouldn’t he hear sighing, speaking to one’s body, etc., Question: her?! cleaving to Hashem with love and awe, to Even after I strengthened myself in loving In the prayer which Reb Noson composed bond oneself with Hashem in joy, etc. It’s friends, it still bothers me that there are about Rebbe Shimon bar Yochai we find impossible to limit Hisbodedus to just one such large crowds. I don’t have anywhere Reb Noson speaking with Rashbi and then style. Every time it’s something else. The to sit, there’s pushing from all sides, how switching back and speaking to Hashem. rule is that Hisbodedus is a time when we can I have any peace of mind? There’s nothing to get confused about; it’s seek to come to a serenity, to awaken possible to speak with the Rebbe, and in inner feelings for Hashem, and to speak to Answer: the middle to start crying out to Hashem, Hashem from the sincere point inside the It’s advisable to find a place, even outside and to go back and forth. heart. the Tziyun, in the Kloyz or in your apart- This doesn’t present any problems in Therefore, speaking to the Rebbe is cer- ment, where you can learn a little with Emunah. We are only crying out to the tainly a part of Hisbodedus, and there’s serenity and be able afterwards to go back Tzaddik that he arouse Hashem’s compas- nothing be confused about. It’s possible to to the Tziyun to be a part of the Avodah of sion upon us. This is the power which the talk to Hashem and then to start talking to everyone together. Tzaddikim have- to bring about divine the Rebbe, and to go back and talk to Ha- But even if this isn’t possible, remember mercy and to open up gates for us, gates shem. This is understood when we come that a part of crowning Hashem the whole of spirituality and closeness to Hashem. to the realization that the deeper idea of year and especially during the Rosh It’s the same as people going to the Hisbodedus is that you talk to Hashem Hashanah days is to nullify your will be- Tzaddik in his lifetime to request a Bracha. with the radiance of authenticity. fore Hashem’s. Perhaps for this reason Then, it’s obvious that there aren’t any Question: Hashem prepares tests for everyone in Emunah issues in placing trust in a person. Uman. There’s no room to sit or stand, By the Tziyun there is a great display of As for those who are worried that this pushing, no bed, lack of food, etc. Hashem feeling, with everybody praying and cry- goes under the definition of “seeking out wants us to strengthen ourselves in faith ing. This serves as great inspiration for me the dead”, the Halachah as decided by in His Providence and to believe that eve- to find what to say for Hisbodedus. But almost all Halachic authorities is that this rything is from Heaven, and to trust Ha- are these words considered Hisbodedus if doesn’t enter the category of “seeking out shem that He will worry about everything they are said in the midst of such large the dead”. Tzaddikim are considered alive you need. You’ll see that in the end, Ha- crowds? I sometimes put a towel or a scarf even in their death. In the Zohar we find shem will take care of everything for you over my head in order to ‘seclude’ myself, many times that Rashbi was spoken to in the best way. but I then get tired and can’t concentrate after his passing, and we find this in the so well. Am I supposed to make an effort Reb Noson Liebermensch once said as he Gemara also. (See Minchas Elazar Res. 68 to go to a forest or somewhere where I buckled himself into a car to travel to the which proves this point at length from the can be alone for Hisbodedus? airport, “We are now belting ourselves Zohar, Gemara, and Midrashim. The with belts of patience… until the end of Shel”a also mentions this as well as oth- Answer: But you must be very cautious and to service, the Tzaddik descends to help him keep away from any confusion and doubts and elevate him to connect to the Crea- As we have already said, Hisbodedus is in this subject. The main thing is to believe tor. principally to come and to speak to Ha- in the power of the confession, that each shem with sincerity. If you feel inspiration Therefore, see to it that when you come word of the viduy is considered a confes- by the Tziyun, there’s no reason to be tak- to the Tziyun to plead for yourself. Tell sion, and takes out ‘all’ the engraved sins, en aback by large crowds. This is His- Hashem about your negative character even if they weren’t specifically men- bodedus in its best form. Breslover Chassi- traits and desires, whatever you can re- tioned. *See Torah 4, that Yehudah’s con- dim throughout the generations have al- member. Especially Erev Rosh Hashanah, fession rectified an entirely different sin ways conducted Hisbodedus by Kivrei when this Tikkun is at its greatest. than the one mentioned.+ Even in the Tzaddikim. Rebbe’s lifetime, when people would Everything must be with the belief that We should take the opportunity to point come to him to confess, they would just the Tzaddik hears, and the belief that the out that you should be very cautious start the viduy and he would immediately Tzaddik is attached to Hashem and wants about confusion and over-exactness re- motion to the next in line to come in, be- to bring you to Him, and he can teach you garding Hisbodedus. Many people are fore the first one was finished. a way and an understanding with which constantly getting confused with new you can be constantly aware of Hashem, Many people have reported that while worries whether this or that is considered both when you have strong feelings for they were confessing, they would sudden- Hisbodedus. Most people who have fallen Hashem and when you don’t feel any pas- ly remember many past deeds from many away from the practice of Hisbodedus are sion and desire. years ago. Hashem sees his pure heart as a result of persistently finishing off which has come to confess sincerely, and The truth is that this Tikkun of viduy is by their Hisbodedus with a feeling that their He helps him remember his actions in or- every Hisbodedus, even not by the Tziyun Hisbodedus wasn’t what the Rebbe had in der to confess. of the Tzaddik, by confessing with a con- mind. nection to the Tzaddik. This means keep- In general, you should know that viduy As we mentioned, Hisbodedus contains ing in mind the teachings of the Tzaddik isn’t only an ‘action’ of listing all of one’s within it many parts, but the main point is that there is a way to rectify everything, sins. The main idea is to bring a person to to stand before Hashem and to become and to believe that every confession recognize Hashem and to acknowledge close to Him. Anything which is supposed brings forgiveness and renewal and brings the truth. Therefore, it’s not necessary to to accomplish this is considered His- a person to be more aware of Hashem. talk about everything. The main thing is to bodedus. *We don’t always merit properly take one thing, like a negative character Question: awakening feelings within ourselves, but trait, and to admit to the mistake and the at least the break which a person makes While in Uman I have this feeling as if I distance from Hashem which was caused in the middle of the day and prepares wasting my time and not doing enough. by it, and to strengthen the recognition himself to sit down and become close to On one hand I want to sit by the Tziyun in that Hashem is the King. Hashem has within it all the benefits of Torah study and prayer, but in reality I find Hisbodedus. Of course you should try to talk about myself outside of the Tziyun a great deal whatever you can remember at the mo- of time. Question: ment, but you don’t have to get bewil- Answer: One of the awesome Tikkunim of the Tzi- dered and to force yourself. The main yun of the Tzaddik is the confession. What thing is to awaken new feelings for Ha- In general all feelings of lack of satisfac- am I supposed to do if I don’t remember shem from the regret about that matter, tion come about because a person imag- all of my sins? If I prepare a list, it makes ined what Uman will be like… and ulti- Since the goal of viduy is to come to me feel as if the whole confession be- mately when he gets to Uman and he sees recognition of Hashem, you should be comes a fixed recital which doesn’t really that everything is ordinary, the people are careful not to fall into depression as a re- come from the depths of the heart. the same, the heart is dry, etc. he gets so sult of it. On the contrary, every confes- disappointed that he runs away from the Answer: sion should bring happiness that you are Tziyun. The Rebbe similarly remarked that now taking the sins out of your bones, and The Rebbe teaches us in Likutei Moharan there are those who imagine Eretz Yisroel you have definitely been forgiven. I, 4, about the greatness of confession to be an exalted, out-of-this-world place, before a Tzaddik, which has in it the pow- Viduy is primarily before the Tzaddik for and are disappointed when they come er to remove all the sins which have been this reason. The Tzaddik, in his burial and see mountains and earth just like any etched on a person’s bones. In the Reb- place, is united with Hashem, and when a other land. be’s lifetime Breslover Chassidim would person comes to the Tziyun and cries out It’s true that every holy thing really is in be called “Viduy’nikes” because they to Hashem that He bring him close to His reality something else entirely, but truly would confess in front of the Rebbe. 26 connecting with the Tziyun depends on moment which you spend there. sions of heaviness of the Avodah of the Emunah that a person believes that Teshuvah and many Tefillos. When you leave the Tziyun and go to your awesome Tikkunim hang on every mo- apartment, or to the snack area, or to But you shouldn’t allow yourself to fall ment by the Tziyun, and you are right now speak with friends, keep Hashem in mind. into the Satan’s teeth. Especially during a part of it … Now is the time to strengthen ourselves in weak moments, get up and girdle yourself Therefore, get to know your strengths and the Rebbe’s teachings about how to live with great strength, recognize who is capabilities, and set a fixed, ironclad time constantly with Hashem, even when not putting these feelings into your hearts, for yourself how much time you are able actually studying Torah or davening. Eat and say ecstatically- “Yes, I do want spend by the Tziyun, and try your utmost with holiness and awe of Heaven, with Avodas Hashem. This is what I choose. to keep to it. It’s worth it to set fixed Derech Eretz. While speaking with friends This is the one thing I ask, this is what I things to learn by the Rebbe’s Tziyun. If be wary of Lashon Hara and arguments, request, to sit in Hashem’s house all my you see that you aren’t being successful, etc. You can thus turn everything into the life.” then grab whatever you can. Don’t say service of Hashem. With this, you break an enormous Yetzer “everything or nothing.” Question: Hara, and you take prayer out of its exile, It’s good practice to study Torah before something which we work hard for on Sometimes, at weak moments, I remem- going to the Tziyun, and then to go Rosh Hashanah. Taking prayer out of exile ber the seriousness which takes place by straight to the Tziyun immediately with- means to take prayer out of the disrespect the Tziyun or of the long davening on Rosh out breaking for mundane talk. The main we have for it and to come to the under- Hashanah, and I begin to feel a huge thing is that it should all be with serenity standing that it’s among the dearest heaviness regarding Avodas Hashem. and without anxiety. By the Tziyun, start things in the world. by thanking Hashem for whatever you’ve Answer This is the secret of shofar blowing, to merited and then say some words of There are many types of Yetzer Hara, and strengthen holy courage which you al- Teshuvah and viduy for a few minutes. many types of heresy. But you should ready have in your soul and to help it Afterwards, say the Tikkun Haklali and the know that the source of all negativity is overcome the force of the physical body prayer afterwards. Above all, try to have ‘heaviness’, emotional tiredness and old- (Likutei Moharan 22). Have courage and Hisbodedus and to pour out your heart to ness which befall a person, when he feels strength. Hashem, also without stress. Try to talk that he doesn’t have any more strength to from the heart with simple, sincere words Question: see or hear anything about Avodas Ha- about what’s going on in your life, and to shem. The Rebbe spoke so much about his Rosh tell Him how much you really want and Hashanah, how it’s an awesome and won- desire holiness. There’s no doubt that inside your heart drous secret which he received from Ha- you love Hashem with all your heart and If you need to rest, you can sit on the side shem as a present and we have no under- soul, but the brazenness of the physical and say Tehillim with simplicity. You can standing therein. So how are we to under- body sometimes overpowers those feel- even go outside to relax and talk with stand how in Likutei Moharan and Likutei ings and tries to make the entire concept friends, or get something to eat. There’s Halachos we find many Torahs and essays of ‘Avodas Hashem’ heavy for you, until nothing wrong with that. Just keep away which explain the topic of travelling to the the point that it’s hard to see even other from empty conversation and arguments. Tzaddik on Rosh Hashanah? people’s Avodah. You need to recognize Then, go back to the Tziyun a little more, the enemy by its name. The source of all Answer: to grab some more Avodah. Just like in these feelings is the Yetzer Hara, this isn’t Yeshivah, when there’s time to learn and We of course don’t have any understand- you at all. You, your true self, would give break time. ing or grasp as to the essence of the Reb- your life and soul for anything to serve be’s Rosh Hashanah, and on the contrary, You can soak in the elevated ambiance Hashem. from the awesome Torahs in Likutei Mo- which surrounds the Tziyun. It all depends This Yetzer comes usually right before you haran we can understand how exalted his on happiness, faith, and calmness. Even in are about to merit entering into new lev- Rosh Hashanah is from our understanding. Torah study an element of contentment is els of holiness. It shows you emptiness, a needed *Likutei Mohran 54+. If the Rebbe still revealed to us many To- place void of any holiness, but in reality rahs about this subject, we are certainly The main thing is to be full of joy and live- this void is the lead up to a new creation. obligated to study them and understand liness from the awesome thing to which The yetzer therefore tries to overwhelm them as much as we are able to. But not you have merited, and thank Hashem for you especially before Rosh Hashanah with the intention of trying to understand every moment which you are by the Tzi- when all of creation is renewed to crown all the reasons behind the journey, but yun. The Baal Davar is very scared of every Hashem. Especially during these days rather to know what our part in the jour- many people fall because of these illu- ney is supposed to be, what are we sup- he’s rectifying our souls. But we should And in reality, this is what we beg so much posed to be looking for, together with realize that his primary mission and goal is for by the Tziyun, that we merit being well Emunah that there’s infinitely so much to help us be able to choose correctly our- connected to the Rebbe and to renew more involved. selves. He wants us in our own lifetimes to ourselves in our studying his Sefarim, to merit having a real part in the crowning of always understand its guidance for our- By other Mitzvos like Shabbos, Tefillin, Hashem, to shout “HaMelech” with a selves, and to enter in our own lifetimes and Torah study we certainly don’t have heart full of yearning, feeling the pleas- into his wonderful Tikkunim. any understanding and grasp in them, and antness of closeness to Him. at the same time all the works of the Question: Tzaddikim discuss so much about the Therefore, on the contrary, as much as we I’m afraid to return home to normal life. greatness of every Mitzvah and the indi- keep in mind the power of the Tzaddik, vidual ways to achieve d’veykus through we become all the more encouraged to Answer: each Mitzvah. The way to conduct our- keep on starting to serve Hashem again The Rebbe once told Reb Noson, that selves in this regard is very clear: to actu- and again, and to increase in Torah and there is the ‘journey to the Tzaddik’, and ally carry out the Mitzvah with simplicity, Tefillah as much as we can. Everything we there’s also ‘returning home’, as Hashem with all of the relevant Halachos, and to do can be with joy and vigor, since we told Klal Yisroel after Matan Torah, rejoice in it like a great treasure, even if believe that we are doing our part and “Return to your tents.” you didn’t feel any special inspiration in there is a Tzaddik who is finishing the performing it. But at the same time the work. We therefore understand that there It’s impossible to be constantly attached Tzaddikim taught us ways how to achieve is no reason to differentiate between our to the pleasantness of spirituality and ho- d’veykus and feelings for Hashem through Avodah and the Avodah of the Tzaddik. liness. One of the foundations of the Reb- that simple Mitzvah that was done, since Any confusion in this matter has its source be’s approach is to serve Hashem with each individual Mitzvah has its own indi- in a small-minded inability to connect two ‘running’ and ‘returning’, meaning to taste vidual light. things together. a little of the true satisfaction of spirituali- ty, and immediately to apply it to the real- This is why people have the custom to This is also the response for those who ask ity of everyday life, to practice Hisbodedus prepare for every holiday by studying why they come to the Rebbe and don’t and come to a resolution, to find practical matters about that holiday, and to pre- see any change in themselves afterwards. direction how to get close to Hashem pare for a Mitzvah by trying to understand We don’t always see that immediately after returning. its secrets. Not to understand the ra- from the moment one comes to the Tzi- tionale behind that Mitzvah, but to under- yun his heart should become enflamed in It would be advisable for you to think of stand the ways to connect to its inner ex- Avodas Hashem. The main thing that we some practical thing which you can accept alted light. As we said, we have to believe are trying to receive is that from now on upon yourself for the coming year, some- that the reasoning of Mitzvos is greatly through the Rebbe’s awesome Tikkunim, thing which you will be able to withstand. exalted from our perception. one now has the ability to continually re- But the main thing is from now on to start new himself and leave all his despair and studying the Rebbe’s sefarim again with a Question: unhappiness behind, and to constantly new diligence, to listen to lectures from There are speakers in Uman who try moti- start his Avodas Hashem anew again and Breslover Chassidim, and to search hon- vating their listeners to grab as much as again. Even when he sees how little his estly to find practical guidance in the ser- they can in Avodas Hashem while there, Avodah is, even if it almost doesn’t add up vice of Hashem. and there are others who speak only to anything, he doesn’t become crestfall- Know, that the Rebbe doesn’t take away about the joy we should feel that we got en, because when he comes to the Rebbe our freedom of choice, but he gives us to the Tziyun. Could this be clarified? Are his resolve is strengthened to keep on advice how we can serve Hashem within the Rebbe’s Tikkunim dependent on my grabbing whatever he can in his Avodas our freedom of choice. We must return personal Avodah on Rosh Hashanah? Hashem, and to throw in his little Avodah home with a holy bravery, self-security From the Rebbe’s words it appears that with the Avodah of the Tzaddik and to and courage, like a soldier prepared for his Rosh Hashanah is higher than high, believe that the Tzaddik builds from our battle who sits protected from head to greater than our own actions which we bricks and cement wonderful buildings up toe. You have merited receiving the Tik- chose, so much that he told someone to high. kun of Rosh Hashanah, keep on going with come even if he wouldn’t be able to pray He can then throughout the year continue your new abilities and keep on crowning properly by him. keeping in mind that he is attached to the Hashem throughout everyday life… Answer: Tzaddik, and he’s not serving Hashem alone, he’s a partner with the Tzaddikim Of course, we have merited coming to the in his Avodah. Rebbe’s Tziyun with complete faith that 28 VARIOUS HALACHOS ASSOCIATED WITH TRAVELLING TO UMAN FOR ROSH HASHANA by Rav Shimon Anshin shlit”a

Departure Times: emptiness… this halachah since on an airplane one is not always aware when daybreak is ap- 1. One may leave for Uman during the Tallit and Tefillin: proaching. night as the injunction of departing on a 1. One should take his Tallit and Tefillin as journey ‘b’chi tov’ (day time) does not carry-on luggage so that they are always 3. A weak person may eat. Everyone is allowed to drink. pertain to a journey which fulfills a To- available. One never knows what situa- rah precept. tions can arise when traveling. 4. On Tzom Gedalia, since one will not be eating the entire day, one may eat dur- 2. One may leave after day break for the 2. If the bag holding the Tallit and Tefillin same reason. When doing so however, has the dimensions of a square tefach, it ing the half an hour before the fast, but it is best to recite the morning blessings may be placed on the floor. it is preferable to plan in advance to eat first, and if leaving less than 50 minutes before the half an hour prior to day- 3. It is forbidden to sit on a suitcase that is before sunrise, to recite Krias Shema. break. holding Tefillin, unless one is doing so to Earliest Davening times: Accompaniment: prevent the theft of the Tefillin. 1. One should make every effort to have Sleeping on the way: 1. Korbonos – preferably after daybreak someone accompany him at least 4 but may be recited at night. When sleeping in one’s clothes, care should amot (~6 feet) from one’s door. Chazal 2. Parshas haKiyor and Terumas haDeshen be taken not to use one’s clothes as a says that one who is accompanied 4 pillow, as this causes forgetfulness. If – may be recited at night leChatchila. amot at the beginning of his journey, is there is something between one’s head 3. The blessing on the Torah – If one slept protected from injury on that journey. If and the clothes, then it is acceptable. in a bed at night he may recite these those accompanying cannot leave the blessings as soon as he wakes up even if house, they can accompany him 4 amot Washing hands upon waking: it is before midnight. If one only fell towards the door. 1. One who inadvertently falls asleep on a asleep in a haphazard way, i.e. on his 2. The traveler should be wished to go TO chair at night, is not obligated to wash chair – there is no need to recite the peace and not IN peace. one’s hands, but it is preferable to do so. blessings on the Torah upon waking up If he intentionally fell asleep, he must 3. One who has not yet davened, may only in the middle of the night. wash his hands. If there is no cup availa- come to wish the traveler a safe journey 4. Elokay Neshomo, blessing for washing ble, one may wash without one. One if he intends to do the dvar mitzvah of hands and blessing on using the bath- may wash in the airplane bathroom. accompaniment as well. room – It is always best to wait until 2. If one does not have water and would The Wayfarer’s Prayer: morning prayers to recite these bless- like to learn, he may wipe his hands on a ings. If one did not sleep on a bed, one 1. If there is 4 kilometers of uninhabited towel - provided he wipes the entire should not recite these blessings until he area on the way to the airport, Tefilat hand – front, back and between the fin- uses the bathroom. Haderech should be recited on the way gers until the wrist. B’dieved one may 5. Morning Blessings – From Midnight. to the airport while having in mind that wipe only the fingers until the palm of the recital is for the plane trip as well. one’s hand. This is just for cleanliness 6. Pesukei d’Zimra – From daybreak. 2. If there isn’t a 4 kilometer uninhabited and does not remove the ‘bad spirit’ - 7. Krias Shma and it’s blessings – 50 area on the way to the airport, one but one should not refrain from Torah minutes prior to sunrise. should say Tefilat Haderech on the plane learning due to an inability to wash 8. Shemona Esrei – Preferably after sunrise, immediately before going down the one’s hands. but when one is under pressure they takeoff runway. One who recited the 3. One sleeping on the top of a bunk bed is may be recited from daybreak. prayer earlier fulfilled his obligation. If not required to have the water brought one did not say the tefillah before take- to him. He can come down in order to 9. The exact time of daybreak – this is not off, one should say it as soon as possible. wash his hands even though he is trav- clear and changes from place to place. If one is in a pressured situation he may 3. One who recited the standard Tefilat ersing 4 amot. rely on the opinion of 72 minutes prior Haderech, may recite the special prayer Eating prior to dawn: to sunrise. composed for air travel. 1. It is forbidden to eat more than the size 10. Halachic times on an airplane – There is 4. If travel lasts for more than one day and of an egg’s volume of food for half an much debate on this topic. Here are one sleeps in a bed at night, the prayer hour prior to daybreak. The Zohar men- some guidelines: should be recited again when traveling tions that one should not eat from mid- the next day. If one slept, but not on a night as well. After daybreak it is forbid- a. It is not considered night time until it is bed, the prayer should be said up to but den to eat even less than an egg’s vol- dark outside the plane. (If one prayed not including the blessing at the end. ume of food. One who was eating be- the evening prayers earlier, he has ful- filled his obligation since one may pray 5. One should learn Torah on the way or at fore the half an hour started, can contin- evening prayers prior to nighttime.) least recite Tehillim. As Chazal says, ue to eat until daybreak. “One who travels and turns his heart to 2. Special care should be taken regarding b. For morning times one should wait until the times as they are listed on the between the one praying and the one treif. Without 2 coverings, any food ground, except for Shemoneh Esrei traversing and the one praying has his cooked in the oven becomes treif as which may be recited as soon as there is eyes closed, there is room to be lenient. well. light on the plane. Furthermore, you may traverse in front Lighting Candles on Shabbat and Yom Tov c. On the fast of Tzom Gedalia one should of one praying if you need to go to the bathroom. But upon return, you should 1. There are two requirements with re- not eat from when there is light in the wait until he finishes praying. To hear gards to candle lighting: a) the act of plane until it is dark on the plane. Shofar, one may traverse in front of lighting (one fulfills this obligation When to pray when flying at night: someone who is in the middle of prayer. through one’s wife’s lighting - provided 1. If one knows he will have a minyan to In a pressurized situation, the Eishel she lights at their home and not at a neighbor, family, etc. ) b) eating and daven with properly within the time al- Avrohom permits traversing if the one sleeping in a place that has light. lotted for Shacharit on the plane – even praying has his eyes closed. if he will need to sit down while daven- 3. The Benches in the Kloiz would be con- 2. If one’s wife is definitely lighting in their ing – one should wait until then. sidered partitions for our purposes since home and the place where one is eating and sleeping has lights, one has no obli- 2. If not, wait until 50 minutes before sun- they are 10 tefachim high and are rise. In extenuating circumstances one ‘permanent’. However, unfortunately gation to light candles. If there is no light where one is eating and sleeping, may start at dawn. (It is preferable to there is an empty space of 3 tefochim at even when his wife lights at home, he use the calculation of 72 minutes before the bottom of the benches and thus they must light with a blessing. sunrise.) cannot be considered partitions. The Gabbaim of the Kloiz would do us a great 3. If his wife is not lighting at home then: 3. It is better to pray Mincha Gedola under favor if they were to put something in normal circumstances than Mincha Keta- a. If he is eating and sleeping in one place that space to diminish the 3 tefach area. na at the airport. he should light there with a blessing. If Leisting or a well knotted string would eating in a public area he should light 4. One should try to arrange his flights in a suffice. where he is sleeping and make sure the way that disturbances to prayer are min- 4. On a plane, one may continue to sit near candles can stay lit until he comes back imized as much as possible. one who started to pray since a plane is to sleep. Davening on a plane: not a designated place of prayer. One b. If there is light in the room he is sleeping may possibly even be able to sit down 1. One must sit down while davening on a in, but he wants to fulfill the obligation after his neighbor started praying, since plane or train. Legs should be placed with candles lit in the dining room – he the chairs are partitions. In either case, together and one should not lean back should ask someone lighting there to one may not pass in front of one pray- on the seat, but sit upright supporting give him a portion in the candles (he ing, or push him. oneself. should preferably hear the blessings 2. The only exception is if there exists a Airline Meals from the one who is lighting.) If candles quiet corner where one will be able to 1. Even though the rolls are often labeled were bought from monies given by the concentrate. ‘mezonos’, if one is eating the food in public for the food, there is no need to ask for a special portion in the candles. 3. One must take care not to pray where the tray, he needs to wash, make In any case, candles lit in a dining hall there are women who are not dressed Hamotzi and recite Birkat Hamazon. should be placed in a central place properly. If this is the case, he should (According to the Mishna Berura and where they contribute to the honor and turn to a different side as much as possi- most poskim, one needs to do this even enjoyment of Yom Tov. ble and shut his eyes tightly while pray- if he is not eating the entire meal.) ing. 2. The difficulty in washing on the plane is 4. An unmarried person has the status of someone who does not have his wife 4. Similarly, one must take care not to pray not a valid reason not to wash. ‘The lighting for him, even if his father is with or learn Torah opposite a bathroom or a Wise has eyes in his head’ and when he him. soiled area. sees the crew getting ready to serve the food, he should wash when it is still easy 5. In a room with many people – one Sitting and walking near someone who is in to move around and afterwards, wait in should light and designate a portion of the middle of prayer: his seat, taking care to keep his hands the candles for each person there. 1. It is forbidden to sit within a 4 amah clean until the meal is served. 6. The time to light is no earlier than ‘plag radius of someone who is praying, un- 3. If it is still very difficult, there is an op- minchah’ (1 ½ seasonal hours before less the one who is sitting is praying or tion to first eat whatever is in the tray, sunset). If one lights before candle learning himself. In front of someone and make a ‘post blessing’ on that food, lighting time – one must accept the on- praying one may not sit as far as the and only then to eat the roll. (According set of Shabbat then. If lighting at the person praying can see. Even if the one to most poskim, this too does not re- designated time, there is no need to sitting wishes to pray or learn, there are move the requirement to wash.) accept Shabbat then. those who forbid sitting down in front of one who is praying. 4. One must ensure that the hot food tray 7. If one does not have access to a candle, has 2 sealed coverings as the ovens in he can use electrical lights. If they are 2. One may not traverse in front of one which the food is cooked is completely already on, he should turn them off and who is praying. If there is a partition 30 then on again having the honor of Shab- what constitutes a biblical prohibition and utensil, or tastes the wine, or picks up bat or Yom Tov in mind. what is of rabbinical origin, etc'), requires and shakes an open bottle of wine – the great knowledge and experience. Those wine becomes forbidden as Yayin Muktzeh: who tell a gentile to do any melacha at all, Nesech. If he only moved the bottle, 1. Make sure that all muktzeh items are thinking it is permissible, are transgressing a there is room for leniency where we are removed from your luggage before total prohibition! speaking about a large monetary loss. Shabbat or Yom Tov, otherwise one This warning should be heeded especially 2. A closed bottle has no Yayin Nesech is- needs to ask a Rov how to proceed with by those who attend public needs and are sues. moving the luggage. helped by gentile workers. It is impossible 2. Passports, tickets etc. are muktzeh. 3. If an open bottle was left open where not to transgress "telling a gentile" prohibi- goyim are about – if the goy has reason 3. Food cards are not muktzeh and are not tions unless one is well versed in these Ha- to believe that the Jew can come in at considered ‘business documents’. lachos. any moment, there is no yayin nesech Requesting work by a non-Jew: This is a major issue because at times deriv- issue. ing any benefit from the melacha is forbid- 1. There are two ways in which “Telling a 4. ‘Cooked wine’ does not have yayin den - even for the entire public for whom gentile” is prohibited. nesech issues. Pasteurized grape juice is the melacha was done. And even in cases NOT considered cooked, although there a) Telling a gentile to do a melacha for where something was forbidden only initial- are lenient poskim. you, even if you derive no benefit from ly (lechatchila) it is wrong, because during it, and, the Days of Awe one should be careful of 5. One should not consume anything pro- duced locally based on rumor and hear- b) Deriving benefit from what the gentile indulging even in things that are permissi- say that such and such is kosher. A thor- does, even if you didn't instruct him to ble, how much more so here. (More than ough investigation needs to be made perform it. anything, one should be careful of the laws of a gentile cooking.) into each item, especially since we are in 2. It is forbidden to tell a gentile to perform the 10 days of Teshuva where even any melacha regardless if it is a Biblical Preparing from one day of Yom Tov to the some things that are permitted by the or Rabbinical prohibition. It is also for- next: strict letter of the law, are refrained bidden to 'hint in an instructive way' It is prohibited to prepare from one day of from. even if you don't derive benefit from the Yom Tov to the next until nightfall. At Placing food under the bed: melacha. It is allowed to hint in a non- nightfall, even before Kiddush, one can say instructive way, but you may not derive “Boruch hamavdil bein kodesh l’kodesh” 1. Ideally no food should be placed under a any benefit from that melacha. and prepare that which needs to be pre- bed, even if it is sealed and no one is sleeping there. If food was placed under 3. It is not allowed to benefit from a mela- pared for the second day. a bed – one who eats that food has one cha that was done by a gentile even if Using a goy’s vessels: to rely on. Food which was sealed is you didn't tell him anything at all and Ideally one should not use anything that easier to permit if it was left under a bed the gentile did it completely on his own belongs to a goy. However, since the ta- and even more so if left under a bed that for the benefit of the Jew. But if it is not bles, countertops, fridge and gas range was not being slept on. a 'complete benefit' – like if there was must be used if one is renting a goy’s flat, already light in the room and the gentile 2. There are poskim who permit food to be the following guidelines apply: added more light to it – it is permissible placed under the upper bed of a bunk to benefit from that melacha. a. On the table, kitchen counters and bed. Some poskim maintain that if fridge – some nylon or aluminum foil someone other than the owner of the 4. Some halachic authorities do permit should be spread to completely cover food placed the food under the bed, hinting to a gentile to perform a mela- the area being used. there is no bad spirit. cha that doesn't give 'complete benefit', but many authorities dispute this ruling. b. Gas ranges – these must be covered Theft of a non-Jew: completely and the grid must be cov- This leniency should only be used when Unquestionably forbidden. Some opinions ered a few times over as well. Kashering a great need is present. maintain that this is a biblical prohibition. the range is NOT an option. 5. If someone is 'completely ill', even if the Theft of sleep: illness doesn't put his life in danger, it is c. Be sure to cut as much aluminum foil as permitted to tell a gentile to do any and you will need – BEFORE YOM TOV. One must take extra care to avoid this; es- pecially on the Yemei haDin. all melachas and benefit from them. Meat left unsupervised: Shatnez: 6. When a melacha is forbidden only Rab- If a Jew is ‘coming and going’ (i.e. has access binically, it is permissible to tell a gentile and makes use of that access regularly) into 1. Items which are shatnez prone – MUST to do it in the cases of 'partial illness', and out of the place where the meat was be checked before wearing. All Ukraini- 'great loss', 'great need', and 'for the left unsupervised, we do not suspect that an clothes are Shatnez prone. sake of a mitzvah'. the goy who came in switched the meat. 2. Mattresses are not shatnez prone. If the In Practice: One may not rule for himself Nesech Wine: mattress is hard and does not bend at all using these rules because knowing the – one may place linen on the mattress 1. If a goy touches wine with his hand or a terms mean (such as 'complete benefit', even in the case where it is uncertain as to whether or not shatnez exists in the rations, such as washing the dishes, etc'. but it is okay to make it even a few days before. mattress. (Some poskim permit such a It is permitted to do other preparations, mattress even when it is certainly shat- such as immersing in the mikvah or cleaning Who needs to make the Iruv? nez) the house if you have benefit from it during A guest who relies on his host for all his Yom Tov (you enjoy having a clean house 3. Blankets – need to be checked for shat- Yom Tom needs is exempt from making Iruv etc'). nez. Tavshilin – even if he wants to cook at his The Blessing of Magen Avot (said Friday Even though the Iruv makes cooking per- host's house. night) missible on Yom Tov, it should still be done A guest who eats all his meals at his host, as early as possible. If need be, however, it This blessing should only be said in a place but lights candles at his own home, should may be done even late and closer to Shab- designated for davening that has a Sefer make an Iruv without a bracha. The same bos. Torah as well. Therefore, those davening applies to married children who eat at their on Friday night in an apartment should not All this applies to cooking done on Friday, parents but sleep at their own houses. not on Thursday. No cooking for Shabbos say Magen Avot. However, if the apart- When a few people share one house it is a ment is used year in and year out for daven- may be done on Thursday! bit intricate. The best is for one of them to ing on Rosh Hashanah – and if there is a Someone who doesn't cook make Iruv Tavshilin for all of them. When Sefer Torah – the blessing should be said. he does it, he should award ownership to Even though we don't usually cook and Even without a Sefer Torah, some poskim his house-mates through someone else. bake for Shabbos, an Iruv Tavshilin should maintain that Magen Avot should be recited The way this is done is by giving the Iruv to in such a place. be made since some things will need to be done, such as warming refrigerated foods someone who is not one of the people who If one is not sure if the apartment is used and adding hot water to the water-heater is staying in the house to acquire ownership year in and year out – the blessing should etc'., as well as lighting the candles and oth- on behalf of all the people staying in the not be recited for fear of making a bracha er Shabbos preparations. house. He then takes the Iruv back from levatala. that person and says the bracha. Someone who definitely doesn't cook or do In Practice: the obligation of people going Talis or other items that were accidentally any of the other things that require Iruv, is to Rebbe z"al in Uman: exchanged exempt from making it. If your tallis was exchanged accidentally, How to make an Iruv If one's wife stays at home, she should you should diligently try to find the owner. make the Iruv at home on erev Yom Tov. If If you can't find him and must pray, you You take a 'significant' portion of meat or one fears she might forget, the Iruv may be may use the tallis only during prayer, but fish (a can of tuna is okay) with a challah or made a few days before in a fashion that it aim only to borrow it and not to affect own- a complete roll, and recite the version and will remain intact until Shabbos. ership on it. Do not recite a bracha on it. the bracha that can be found in all siddu- rim . When there is no cooking to be done One may not make the Iruv in Uman (or any other place too far to get home by foot on One must be extra careful to avoid getting and the Iruv is needed only to light candles Yom Tov) for his wife at home. the tallis dirty and take it off immediately the bracha is not said. The Iruv is kept in after davening. After Rosh Hashana you the refrigerator until the Shabbos comes in. If the wife isn't eating at home she should must look for the rightful owner diligently, Be sure to mark the Iruv so it is not eaten follow the regular ruling for all guests. toהידור( and if you still cannot find him, ask a Rav before Shabbos. It is excellent (a If the husband is not cooking and preparing לחם משנה .what to do use that Iruv as and eat the dish his own meals and doesn't light candles These halachos apply only to a tallis, which on Shabbos. either – he is exempt from making an Iruv. is 'an object of a mitzvah' and we say that What is the Iruv made of Similarly, if he's eating in a public place, 'one is agreeable to have a mitzvah per- chances are that the person in charge made The cooked portion should be made with formed with his possessions'. But other an Iruv for everyone. But if one prepares objects such as towels, there is no permis- something that is eaten 'wrapped in bread' of the foods mentioned above. It should his own meals from Yom Tov to Shabbos sion to use it, even if the other person is and lights candles, he should make an Iruv probably using your exchanged towel. In not be made with anything that is not eaten 'wrapped in bread', such as soup or chulent. Tavshilin even if he made an Iruv in his such a case ask a Rav what to do. house before he left. The 'significant portion' above mentioned Iruv Tavshilin הידור. isn't a prerequisite but a The reason for Iruv Tavshilin The Iruv may be made also with an egg. In TRANSLATOR’S NOTE: One is not allowed to cook for Shabbos dur- fact this is how it was made in the past As this is a translation of the original He- ing Yom Tov, unless one has 'mixed' the when they didn't have refrigerators to keep brew, if you are unclear on any of the Laws ,outlined herein in any way whatsoever מהודר cooking for Shabbos with cooking done for the food fresh. However, it is more Yom Tov. If you didn't perform Iruv Tavshil- to make it with cooked meat or fish. If please consult with a Posek (Halachic Au- in you must ask a Rav what to do. those were cooked specifically for Iruv, it is thority). The Iruv is necessary for lighting the Shab- even better. bos candles as well, but the bracha should When to make the Iruv not be recited for candle-lighting alone. The same applies for other Shabbos prepa- Initially it should be made erev Yom Tov,

200 YEARS AFTER REBBE NACHMAN'S PASSING heartrending meeting between Rebbe Nosson and Menachem with R' Yitzchok the brother of R' Alter Tepliker. Mendel of Kotzk. 5571-5771 5638: R' Berle of Warsaw, the rebbe of R' Shmuel Horowitz (a 5601: The marriage of daughter of R’Shechne - the first grand- Dayan in the Beis Din of the saintly Avney Nezer of Sochatchov) 5571: 18th Tishrei Rebbe Nachman passes away. Erev Rosh daughter of of R’ Nosson. makes aliya to Tzfas. come together by the gravesite. Rebbeא נ"ש Chodesh Shvat Nosson prints 2nd part of Likutei Moharan, Sefer Hamidos, and 5602: Likutei Etzos is printed in Lemberg and the seforim are 5639: R' Avraham Shternhartz marries the daughter of R' Yosef Kitzur Likutei Moharan. brought to Breslove. Yona, Rebbe Nosson's youngest son. 5572: First "kibbutz" get together in Uman of 60 chassidim. 5603: – R' Nachman Tulchiner travels to Yas to print the first 5640: R' Pinchas Kublitcher, who became close to the Rebbe They daven at "Shomrim Laboker" shul with non-Breslove volume of Likutei Halachos and Rebbe Nosson collects the with great Mesirus nefesh through R'Avrohom (the son of poeple as the Rebbe requested. On Purim, Chaya, the Rebbe's funds for this. R’Nachman of Tulchin), passes away. He merited to bring daughter is engaged. 5604: – The roof of the Kloiz collapses and is fixed. R' many people on Kublitch to the Rebbe. 5573: "The Rebbe's beis medrash" is rebuilt after being burned Nachman, the son of Rebbe Nosson, gets married and Rebbe 5641: The Nativ Tzaddik, R' Nosson of Tevria travels to Uman down on 1810. Nosson is saved from an ambush on the way. He sings "They from Eretz Yisroel. will see our greatness and beauty when Moshiach will come." 5574: R' Yehuda Eliezer becomes close to Rebbe Nosson (he 5642: R' Efraim son of Rebbe Naftoli prints Likutei Even and later accompanied him ti Erztz Yisroel). 5605: Suprisingly, Rebbe Nosson does not say Torah on Rosh Ashmores Haboker in Jerusalem. Hashanah in Uman. He passes away on the 10th of Teves. 5575: Rebbe Nosson styrats writing Likutei Tefilos 5643: R' Efraim son of Rebbe Naftoli passes away erev Succos. Rebbe Aharon "The Rav" passed away on Rosh Chodesh Av. 5576: Rebbe Nosson prints Sipurey Ma'asios in Ostraha. It is 5644: R' Moshe Breslover starts to daven in front of Amud for 5606: R' Nachman Tulchiner rewrites Likutei Halachos in prep- th published with Shivchey Haran. In Nissan Rebbe Nosson Mincha. R' Nosson of Tveria passes away on 26 of Adar. R' aration for printing. th dreams of Rebbe Nachman who strengthens him regarding the Nachman Tulchiner passes away on 26 of Nisan. value of Likutei Halachos and promises him that it will be 5607: R' Nachman Tulchiner prints volumes 2 and 3 of Likutei 5645: R'Avrohom Shterhartz starts davening Shachris before printed. halachos, Orach Chaim, finishing the next year with all the part the Amud in the Kibbutz. R' Leib Konstantiner davens Mussaf of Yore Deah. 5577: R' Shachna, Rebbe Nosson's son, gets married. fro 5 years until he passes away. 5608: R' Nachman Tulchiner starts being the Ba'al Tefilah 5578: Rebbe Nosson writes the prayer after Tikkun Haklali. 5646: R'Avrohom, the son of R’Nachman of Tulchin, starts later printed as ,אנ"ש Mussaf on Rosh Hashana in Breslev and moves to Breslev. writing the stories and messorah of 5579: R' Isroel, the son of Sarah, the Rebbe's grand son marries 5609: R' Nachman Tulchiner starts being the Ba'al Tefila Musaf Anshey Moharan. the daughter of the saintly Rebbe Aharon, the son of Rebbe on Rosh Hashana in Uman. participate in it. 5647: R'Avrohom, the son of R’Nachman of Tulchin writesא נ"ש Mordechai of Chernobyl and all 5610: Shivchei Haran is printed for the first time in Poland. Kochvey Or. 5580: Rebbe Nosson puts up a printing press in his house and starts making plans to travel to Eretz Yisroel. 5611: R' Leib Konstantiner come to the Kibbutz for the first 5648: R' Shlomo Vecksler arrives at Eretz Yisroel and R' Akiva time and R' Isaac Eisenstein becomes close through him. Schleizinger advices him to become close to chassidei Breslov. 5581: Rebbe Nosson's printing press is inaugurated on 15th of Shvat and the two parts of Likuteu Moharan are printed, as are 5612: Sipurey Ma'asios is printed with the sichos after it. It is 5649: R' Yisrael Karduner draws close. R' Leib Kinstantiner Sefer Hamidos and Names of Tzaddikim. R' Shachna prints the called "Sichos Haran – Magid Sichos". passes away and is buried in Uman. R' Yona Yosef son of firstTikkun Haklali. 5613: The Tchuriner Rav sees Rebbe Nosson in a dream carry- Rebbe Nosson passes away. 5582: Rebbe Nosson prints the first 22 prayers of Likutei Tefil- ing his seforim, complaining that "they are heavy" and asking 5650: R' Nachman Nemirover starts davening Musaf before the os. That year R' Nahcman Tulchiner becomes close to Rebbe him for help. This awakened the Tchuriner Rav to write the Amud until 5680. R' Tzvi Hirsch Terahvitzer passes away in Nosson at the age of 8 years old. The end of Nisan Rebbe "Otzar HaYirah" the compendium of Likutei Halachos. Tzfas and is buried by R' Yitzchok, son of Rebbe Nosson. Nosson leaves for eretz Yisroel and arrives at Sidon at 19 of 5614: Adel, the Rebbe's daughter passes away. Following 5651: A Kibbutz minyan starts in Jerusalemk. Sivan. Reb Shimon, the Rebbe's pupil, also makes alia around Rebbe Naftoli's advice, R' Nachman Tulchiner travels to illumi- 5652: R' Sender Tirovitzer "the small" passes away in Tzfas on that time. nate the Rebbe’s light in town of Tirhovitz. They spent money 2nd of Cheshvan. to continue printing Likutei Halachos. daven at the house of a rich man called Rw 5653: R' Sender Tirovitzer (the nephew of R’Sender “the אנ"ש :5583 Mordechai for 5 years. In Kislev Rebbe Nosson comes back 5615: at the behest of Rebbe Naftoli, Rav Nachman Tchuriner small”) prints a volume with Rebbe Nosson's letters (which from Eretz Yisroel. becomes the Rav in Tchurin. were not published in Michtevey Moharanat or Alim Litrufa) 5584: R' Yitzchok, son of Rebbe Nosson marries his first wife. 5616: R' Dovid Tzvi, son of Rebbe Nosson passes away. with Tikkun Haklali. Rebbe Nosson prints the first part of Likutei Tefilos. Someone 5617: The Tchuriner Rav writes Parperaos LeChochma as well 5654: R'Avrohom, the son of R’Nachman of Tulchin makes snitches the authorities about the printing press. Faiga Sacha, as other seforim. aliya. R' Moshe Breslover passes away on Rosh Chodesh the daughter of Sarah, the Rebbe's grand daughter marries the 5618: R' Hirtz, the father of R Avrohom Shternhartz, become Shevat. Tchuriner Rav passas away on Ta'anis Esther. grandson of Rebbe Baruch of Medzibodz. the son in law of the Tchuriner Rav. When his wife passed 5655: R'Avrohom, the son of R’Nachman of Tulchin travels to 5585: R' Yitzchok divorces his first wife. away, he married the daughter of R' Shimshon 'of the forest'. Uman for 19 years. 5586: R' Yitzchok remarries. On Elul Rebbe Nosson's first wife, 5619: Likutei Halachos, Choshen Mishpat is printed. 5656: R'Avrohom, the son of R’Nachman of Tulchin prints the daughter of the saintly Rebbe Tzvi "The Great", passes 5620: Rebbe Naftoli passes away in Uman. Kochvey Or in Jerusalem. In Berditchev they print Rebbe away. Nosson's letters in Alim Letrufa for the first time (first part of 5621: Likutei Halachos, Even HaEzer, is printed and the printing 5587: Rebbe Nosson marries Mrs. Dushil and their son, Michtevey Mohoranat). of Likutei Halachos is completed after 20 years of piecemeal Nachman, is born that year. R' Yitzchok has his first daughter. publishing. 5657: R' Naftoli, R'Avrohom (the son of R’Nachman of Tulch- The decree of the "Kantonisten" (taking Jewish children to 25 in’s) father in law, makes aliya. years of military service at the Czar's army) begins. Rebbe 5622: Rav Avrohom Shternhartz is born. 5658: R' Asher Zelig, R' Alter Tepliker's father, passes away in Shmuel Isaac passes away. 5623: R' Efraim, the son of Rebbe Naftoli, makes aliya. Tzfas. .pray for 2 years in the "Ambar" where they 5624: The kibbutz in Meiron starts אנ"ש :5588 5659: R' Yaakov Filmer of Berditchev makes aliya. davened on the Rebbe's last year. R' Dovid Tzvi, the son of R' 5625: R' Sender Tiravitzer collects money to rebuild the Kloiz in 5660 (1900): R' Nosson Beitlmacher – who would later marry Yitzchok, is born. Uman. R' Avrohom Ber'inu gives him 1000 Rendel (a huge the Tzaddekes Gittle, the widow of R' Yisroel Karduner – makes 5589: R' Yodef Yona, Rebbe Nosson's smallest son, is born. sum) and R' Sender kisses his hands, saying "Fortunate are the aliya. ."daven in the house of a person who wanted them hands that give 1000 Rendalach to the Rebbe's cause אנ"ש :5590 5661: R' Yisroel Karduner prints many of the Rebbe's seforim to "sanctify" the house with their prayers. 5626: With the efforts R' Sender Tirovitzer the Kloiz in Uman is until 5663: . .prayed for 2 years in a wide apartment of R' rebuilt. Rav Nachman Tulchiner moves to Uman אנ"ש :5591 5662: R' Alter Tepliket's Meshivas Nefesh is printed for the first Zalman. R' Avraham Ber, the son of Adel, the Rebbe's grand- 5627: R' leibale Reuven's makes Aliya and passes away in Tzfas time. The Tchuriner Rav's Rimzey Ha'ma'asios is printed with son marries the daughter pf Moshe Chinkes. Rebbe Nosson on 22nd of Av. Sipurei Ma'asios. puts the foundation of the "Kloiz". 5628: R' Hirsch Leib, the Rav in Breslev after his father Reb אנ"ש The Kloiz in Uman is rebuilt for the third time and :5663 5592: Sarah, Rebbe Nahcman's daughter, passes away. Rebbe Aharon "The Rav", passes away on 11th of Adar. prayed there until 5696 (1936). "Anshei Ma'amad" society is Nosson build the columns and beams of the Kloiz. 5629: The Tchuriner Rav travels to Eretz Yisroel with the established in Uman and lasts for 30 years. R' Shmuel Meir 5593 Mrs. Chana Tzirl, Rebbe Nosson's daughter, gets married. wealthy people of Tcherin. R' Chaim Karsineshtein makes Aliya Anshin makes aliya. .pray in the Kloiz even though it isn't finished. but returns later אנ"ש :5594 th 5664: First Breslover Shul is established in the old city of Jeru- Rebbe Nosson hears he can print in Lemberg (Lieptzig). 5630: R' Yitzchok, son of Rebbe Nosson passes away on 14 of salem at the behest of R' Akiva Schlezinger. 2nd volume of 5595: A big machloket fires up against Rebbe Nosson. Rebbe Adar. R' Itzale of Tulchin who lived in Jerusalem travels to Yemei Moharanat is printed in Jerusalem by R' Yisroel Kardun- Nachman come to him in a dream together with Moshe Uman. er. Rabbeinu and consoles him. Rebbe Nosson gets a haskomo 5631: R' Itzchok Isaac, the brother of R' Alter Tepliker makes 5665: First Kibbutz in Rosh Hashana in Eretz Yisroel is held in from Moshe Rabbeinu. The “Great Shavuos”. On Rosh Cho- Aliya. the shul. R' Yitzchok Breiter draws close in Lublin. desh Elul Rebbe Nosson is exiled to Nemirov. Rebbe Nosson’s 5632: The Tchuriner Rav prints all the Rebbe's seforim through 5666: R' Yitzchok Breiter comes to Uman and goes back with son, R' Dovid Tzvi, gets married. his student R' Boruch Efraim (who wrote Be'Ibey Hanachal). an enflamed heart to spread the light of the Tzaddik. Likutei 5596: Rebbe Nosson miraculously gets a premit to be in Uman 5633: R' Chaim Karsinshetin makes Aliya again. Tefilos is first printed in Galicia with the Haskomos of the local for Rosh Hashanah. His main adversary travels to Kamenitz to 5634: Otzar HaYirah is printed in Lembers. The wealthy people Rabbonim. complain and has to run over the border for various reasons, of Tcherin print Likutei Moharan in Jerusalem. 5667: R' Yitzchok Breiter arrives from Polland with 7 newcom- weakening the controvercy against Rebbe Nosson. 5635: The Tchuriner Rav prints Likutei Moharan with Par- ers, amongst them R' Yechezkel and R' Shmuel Eliahu Men- 5597: Rebbe Nosson gets another permit to come to Uman peraos Lechochma. R' Nosson of Tevria who wrote the sefer delail, R' Bentzion Apter, and R' Shlomo Gavriel. from Nemirov. Nativ Tzaddik makes Aliya. 5668: R' Yitzchok Meir Karman arrives at the Kibbutz on R"H. 5598: Rebbe Nosson is allowed to come back to Breslev. 5636: The Tchuriner Rav prints the first volume of Rebbe 5669: First shul in Tzfas is established by R' Ysroel Karduner Rebbe Yudil, Rebbe Nachman’s student, passes away. Nosson's biography Yemei Moh"aranat in Lemberg, as well as and Nosson Tirahvitzer. 5599: After 3 years of having to stay away, a great Shabbos the seforim Leshon Chasidim and Derech Chasidim, encyclope- 5670: R' Dovid Davishske prints Likutei Moharan in Jerusalem. Chanukah was held by Rebbe Nosson. nd dic compendiums of the seforim of the students of the Ba'al The 2 volume of Rebbe Nosson's letters as well as Nachas 5600: Rebbe Nosson goes with R' Nachman Tulchiner to print Shem Tov and those of the Magid of Mezritch respectively. Hashulchan is printed by R' Yisroel Karduner. Likuteui Halachos in Lamberg. There was an exciting and 5637: R' Nosson of Tveria goes to Uman for Rosh Hashanah 5671: R' Yudil Dashivske prints Likutei Halachos O"C, Vol. 1 in Berditchev. Yitzchok Mendel Rothenberg on the East Side. 5731: R' Gedalia Keonig purchases land for Breslov Tzfas. R' .are sent to an unknown place. Few Michal Dorfman makes aliya אנ"ש a shul in the Jewish quarter. 5698: 27 martyrs of אנ"ש Kollel Warsaw gives :5672 5673: R'Avrohom, the son of R’Nachman of Tulchin prints make it back and make it to Eretz Yisrael. 5732: R' Shmuel Horovitz, R' Nosson Barsky and R' Dovid Ro- Sichos V’Sipurim. R' Hertz, the father of R' Avrohom Shtern- 5699: Even though the Kloiz is closed, many Chassidim make it meinisher pass away. hartz, passes away. to Uman and daven in 4 apartments. R' Levi Yitzchok's last 5733: A group with R' Eliezer Berland gets to Uman mid-year. 5674: R'Avrohom, the son of R’Nachman of Tulchin returns year in Uman with great mesirus nefesh since he is 'wanted'. R' R' Nosson Shternhartz and R' Benzion Apter pass away. Talu- with the last ship from Eretz Yisroel together with R' Yisroel Ahron Leib Tzigelman prints Tikkun Haklali. R' Nosson Barsky mud Torah Temima is established in Jerusalem. in Kishinev for R”H. R' Yisroel Nachman אנ"ש Karduner. R' Levi Yitzchok and R' Elya Chaim Rozin and dosens makes it in with the last ship to arrive before the Holocaust. 5734: a group of of more newcomers draw close at the Makaveh Yeshiva 5700: A shul is built in Sha'arey Chessed. Tikkun Chatzos is Anshin and Sar Shalom Marzel get to Uman. (through R' Yitzchok Otovetzker). On Elul R' Levi Yitzchok go printed. 5735: Inauguration of Pe'er Hanachal. from Poland to Uman. 5701: R' Avrohom Shternhartz starts a Kibbutz in Meiron. R' 5736: Herschel Vasilksky and a group get to Uman on evev R"H 5675: A very old man arrives at the Kibbutz who was old Yona Lebel becomes the shofar blower until he passes away. and R"H in Kiev. enough to have seen Rebbe Nosson. 5702: R' Mordechai Sokolover passes away in Siberia. 5737: a group gets to Uman on evev R"H and R"H in Kiev again. 5676: R' Levi Yitzchok accompanies R'Avrohom, the son of 5703: R' Yacov Melamed davens Shachris in Meiron and R' Heichal Baruch shul in Tzfas is inaugurated. R’Nachman of Tulchin to Tcherin where they meet R' Aharon Avrohom Shternhartz davens mussaf until 1954. Tikkun haklali 5738: A minyan with R' Eliezer Shlomo Shick make it to Uman Kublitcher and a shidduch is made. is printed in Shanghai with Tzetil Koton of the Rebbe R' on erev R"H but are driven back to Kiev. A group arrives in 5677: R' Levi Yiztchok marries the daughter of R' Aharon Ku- Elimelech. The new shul in Shaarey Chessed is inaugurated. R' Uman with R' Berland and are arrested by police. R' Nachman in Shaarey Chessed Shosek passes away (remained silent for 40 years!). Mabuey אנ"ש blitcher. Yomtov Zlotnik, the mainstay of 5678: R'Avrohom, the son of R’Nachman of Tulchin passes passes away. Hanachal is published. th away in Chanukah. R' Getzi passes away on the 7 day of 5704: the Ohel above the Tziun is destroyed. 5739: A large group group makes it to the Tzyun on erev R"H Pessach. 5705: R' Zabvil makes a minyan in Uman after the years of the but are arrested and spend R"H in jail. R' Rosenfeld passes 5679: R' Alter Tepliker is murdered on Adar and R' Levi Holocaust (R' Michal Dorfman and R' Chaim Binyomin Brod away. Yitzchok moves into his house on Nisan. In mid-summer 50 of were there). From that year on R' Mechelmakes a Kibbutz 5740: R' Hirsch Lipel and R' Gedalia Keonig pass away. .are almost murdered at the Kloiz and are miraculously every year until he makes aliya אנ"ש 5741: 21 people in Kiev for R"H – 9 of which are in Uman with saved. R' Yisroel Karduner passes away in Teveria on 9th of 5706: R' Avrohom Shternhartz buys land for the Shul in the old another Jew, Rabinovitch, of Uman to make up a minyan. Cheshvan (and with his death the plague stopped). R' Nosson city. R' Ephraimel, “The Oneg Shabbos”, passes away on 15 of 5742: Toras Nosson is published. Tiravitzer passes away in Tzfas. Shvat. 5743: Kiryas Breslov shul in Tzfas opens. R' Elchonon Spector 5680: R' Alter Markes davens Shachris at the Kibbutz. Even 5707: R' Zanvil buys the lot over the Tzyun to safeguard the passes away. though it was light-threatening to to come to Uman, 7 people Tzyun’splace. came with great mesirus nefesh, amongst them R' Aharon 5744: R' Elye Chaim Rozin passes away. אנ"ש The Jordanians capture the old city and many :5708 Kiblitcher and R' Levi Yitzchok his son-in-law. R' Levi Yitzchok escape to Katamon. R' Shmuel Shapira, R' Shmuel Horovitz, 5745: R' Yacov Berzesky passes away. starts to daven mussaf before the Amud. A young boy, R' and R' Moshe Burstein are captured. 5746: Breslover shul opens in Sanhedria Murcheves. Yacov Bersezky also arrives with great self-sacrifice from Po- land – two months later he makes aliya. 5709: Since Meiron is in Arab hands, the Kibbutz takes place 5747: R' Y.M. Gabai and A. Dimermas make it Uman for R"H. A in Teveria by Rabbi Meir Ba'al Hanes. The Jordanian captives group makes it mid-year with R' Mordechai Yagelnik. 5681: 18 boys from Poland sneak over the border and arrive at are released and R' moshe Burstein establishes a shul in Uman for R"H. Kollel Warsaw gives the Aguna shul in the 5748: 20 people make it Uman for Rosh Hashanah. R' Yaakov Katamon. R' Levu Yitzchok arrives in Eretz Yisrael on Cheshvan. .R' Baruch Bwrditchover passes away. Meir Schechter makes it to Uman on Adar .אנ"ש Rova' to' Unabridged Chayay Moharan is printed. R' Aharon Kublitcher 5710: R' Yaakov Ze'ev starts davening Shachris in Meiron. In 5749: 200 people make it to Uman for R"H with R' Shmuel passes away on Elul. Jerusalem R' Levi Yitzchok davened Mincha, Maariv and mussaf Shapira, R' Shmuel Chechik, R' Mordechai Elazar, R' Michal before the amud until he passed away. 5682: R' Hirsch Lipel makes it to Uman with another boy with Dorfman and R' Moshe Burstein. R' Levy Yitzchok, R' Shmuel tremendous mesirus nefesh. From this year R' Levi Yitzchok 5711: Yerach Eitanim of the Tchuriner Rav is printed. Shapira and R' Binyomin Ze'ev Cheshin pass away. davens Sachris in the Kibbutz and R' Avrohom Shternhartz 5712: The lot of the shul in Mea Shorim is purchased. 5750: Gates of the Tziun are open. 1,000 people come. Daven- davens mussaf. 5713: R' Eliyahu Chaim Rozin collects money in the US for the ing in the Zavod. 5683: from this year on, R' Moshe Yeruslavsky takes care of all shul. 5751: a low tombstone in placed on the Tziun. 2,000 people in .in Uman after a great miracle that occurred to him 5714: R' Moshe Kremer, R' Nosson Tzvi Koenig, and R' Uman. Davening in the Migometer אנ"ש of whereby he was saved from certain death. Avrohom Herschler become close. 5752: A tall stone in placed on the Tziyun. 2500 people daven 5684: Likutei Moharan is printed in Poland for the first time 5715: R' Moshe Burstein davens in Meiron. R' Avrohom Sht- at the migometer. R’ Michal Dorfman builds the outside Ohel .comes out wearing their Shabbos clothing when it ernhartz passes away in Elul. 100,000 Tikun Haklali are printed on the Tizyun אנ"ש and comes out of the book-binder. R' Yisroel Abba Rosenfeld by R' Eliezer Veitzhandler, first time with the commentary of R' 5753: 3000 people daven at the Institute. Tiferes Hanachal shul travels to America from the Soviet Union. Yitzchok Breiter. R' Yaakov Dov prints Alim Litrufa in America. is established in Bet Shemesh. A shul is established in Beitar 5685: A few people from Poland manage to come as well as Maimon shul is inaugurated in Bnei Brak. Ilit. one from Caucuses. Shmos Hatzddikim is printed and the 5716: R' Nosson Shternhartz makes aliya. 5754: 3500 people daven in the Kloiz in Uman. R' Mordechai אנ"ש Rebbe's family and the great people of are added. 5717: R' Nosson Shternhartz davens mussaf in Meiron from Eliezer Rubinstein passes away. .in Tisnitschov establish a shiur to learn Likutei that year on. 5755: 4200 people in Uman אנ"ש :5686 Mohoran in depth publicly. R' Aharon Tzigelman prints Likutei 5718: Likutei Moharan with the Parperaos is printed in the US. 5756: 4700 people in Uman. Eitzos (Ivrei Teitsh in Yiddish) 5719: Yeshivas Breslev is opened in Bnei Brak. 5757: 5200 people in Uman. R' Yitzchok Gelbach passes away. 5687: A siddur with Tikkun Haklali is printed by R' Nashka 5758: The Tziyun site is purchased and the place is built. New Tulchiner. The Haggadah with Or Zoreach is printed in Jerusa- 5720: Foundation stone is laid to Yeshivas Breslov in Bnei Brak. Kloiz is built with 3000 seats. R' Nosson Tzvi Keonig passes lem. 5721: Second half of the lot for shul in Meah Sheorim is pur- away on Cheshvan. Shul opens in Manchester. 5688: Or Zoreach pamphlet is published in Poland for 2 years. chased. R' Yona Lebel passes away. 5759: R' Shmuel Chechik passes away. Nachlas Chein shul is 5689: First Kibbutz in Poland. 5722: R' Gedalia Fleer goes to Uman but doesn't make it to the Tziyun. R' Shmuel Meir Anshin passes away. R' Zanvil passes established in Bet Shemesh. 5690: R' Shmuel Horovitz arrives in Uman and stays fro 3 away. His body is brought to Eretz Yisroel a few years later and 5760 (2000): 10000 people in Uman. Breslev is established in consecutive R"H's. The students of R' Ephraimel, “The Oneg his body was still intact! Some say because he never missed a Brachfeld/Modien Ilit. Or Avrohom shul is opened. Shabbos”, establish a shul in Tel Aviv. R' Aharon Leib Tzigel- day of hisbodedus and others say because of the self-sacrifice 5761: Yeshivas Breslev is established in Tzfas. man prints the complete Alim Letrufa with the Rebbe's letters he had for the Rebbe's Tziyun. Leshon Chassidim is reprinted 5762: Breslover shul in Lakewood, N.J. and those of R' Yitzchok son of Rebbe Nosson, for the first as well as Chochma and Tevuna. time. 5763: 15000 people in Uman. Mekor Hanachal shul in Beitar is 5723: R' Fleer gets to the Tziyun, which is the first time some- opened. 5691: From this year until the Holocaust the Kibbutz takes one from the outside gets to the Tziyun. R' Moshe Burstein place at the Chachmay Lublin Yeshiva. widens the shul in Katamon and establishes Yeshiva Or Av- 5764: A copy of the original Kloiz in Uman is built in Modein 5692: R' Shmuel Horovitz leaves jail on the Sefira of Netzach raham. Ilit. Pocket-size Likutei Moharan is printed. Be'Netzach. 5724: R' Fleer goes to Uman with R' Tzvi Aryeh Rosenfeld and 8 5765: Thousands of free tickets to Uman are given away which 5693: R' Shmuel Shapirah, R' Biyomin Ze'ev Cheshin, and people. create a tremendous interest to come to Uman. Kloiz Anshei Moharan opens in Jerusalem. Heshel Franc draw close. R' Shmuel Horowitz prints a part of 5725: Davening upstairs in the shul in Mea Sheorim. R' Shmuel the letters of R’ Avrohom the son of Nachman of Tulchin. Shapira prints the Tefilos Lizmaney Hashanah compilations. 5766: 21000 people in Uman. R' Michal Dorfman passes away on 5 Av. 5694: R' Hirsch Lipel makes aliya. The Rebbe's previously 5726: R' Gedalia Fleer is in Uman on R"H with R' Michal Dorf- unpublished written Torah is printed with the letters of R' man and a few people from Tashkent and Moscow. Many 5767: 22000 people in Uman. Talmud Torah Breslev estab- .draw close from Yeshivas Ponivez through R' lished in Bet Shemesh. Kollel Chatzos restarts in Mea Shorim אנ"ש Shlomo Vecksler. important 5695: 20 People from Poland successfully arrive at the Kibbutz Nosson Libermensch and R' Avrohom Mordechai Felberboim. 5768: 23000 people in Uman. New Parperaos Lechochma is with permits. R' Shimshon Barsky passes away erev Roch 5727: Breslover shul opens in Boro Park. Kibbutz is held there published. Chodesh Sivan. R' Shmuel Horowitz prints Biur Halikutim. until the Tziyun opens. Ulpan Chadat pamphlet is published by 5769: 24000 people in Uman. 2 weekly pamphlets "Otzros" 5696: The communists close the Kloiz. In Cheshvan R' Levi Nachman Burstein. R' Yiztchok Korman passes away. and "Aleh Litrufa" are published in Hebrew and the ”Gates of Yitzchok and R' Elya Chaim Rozin are arrested and are miracu- 5728: Ya'alas Chein is printed by R' Shmuel Horowitz. Pituchei Emunah” pamphlet in English. lously set free on erev Roch Chodesh Adar. R' Moshe Burstein Chosam is printed. R' Arye Veinshtoc prints Likutei Moharan 5770: 25000 people in Uman. Establishment of great Yeshiva/ makes aliya. R' Avrohom Shternhartz makes aliya. R' Mor- with square letters. Shul in Williamsburg is opened. Masivta d'Chasidei Breslove in Jerusalem. dechai Yagelnik makes aliya and davens Maariv in front of the 5771: 200 years from the Rebbe’s passing and his voice still Amud until R'Levi Yitzchok arrives. 5729: R' Nosson Tzvi Keonig prints an index for Likutei Mo- haran. resounds: "You have nothing to worry about since I go before daven in the Lelover shul in the old city. A shul is אנ"ש :5697 5730: R' Aryeh Veinstock prints full first complete set of Likutei you", "There is no such reality as despair" and "My fire shall established in Sha'arey Chessed. R' Yechezkel Medenlail burn until the arrival of Moshiach”. makes aliya. First Breslover shul is opened in New York by R' Halachos. R' Tzvi Aryeh Rosenfeld prints all the Breslover seforim.

Semicha B’Uman!

This Erev Rosh Hashana, for the first time since the 1917 Russian Revolution, a Jew will receive Semicha in the town of Uman. Yehuda Levinson of Toronto, Canada, will add the title ‘Rabbi’ to his name. For him, it is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream earned through in-depth learning. This momentous event will B’Ezrat Ha- shem, set a precedent for Rabbinical Ordination in Uman for anyone who diligently applies himself to the study and mastery of the Shulchan Aruch. The Tikun Haolam is Through Learning Halacha The essence of learning Halacha is to be able to distinguish between pure and impure, kosher and issur and ultimately, on a deeper level, good and evil. Thus, the evil contained in the various human character traits can be vanquished. “This is one way to achieve perfection, and then whatever one prays for will emerge from potentiality to actuality and one’s request will be fulfilled. Those who oppose him with obstacles and barriers will be cast down to the ground” (Likutey Moharan 8:6-7). (Advice Rabbi Nachman, page 260.) The Shulchan Aruch Learning Project The path will now be paved for all who desire to make a kinyan in Torah and The Tikun Olam. Yeshiva Pirchei Shoshanim has developed The Shulchan Aruch Learning Project, which allows everyone to learn Halacha. It doesn't matter if you've been studying Torah since you were young or if you are just now taking your first steps in learning. Pirchei Shoshanim is committed to help you receive the appropriate teachings for your lev- el. Even those who work full time at demanding jobs can find structure and accomplishment through their learning. The first semicha many receive is in Issur V’heter (Melicha, Basar B’Chalav and Taaruvos). Shiurim are sent by e-mail twice a week. There are review questions at the end of each shiur so you can check your comprehen- sion. After every 10-12 shiurim there is a quiz, and after each section there is a test. These tests are meant to help you through chazara. The final major test is given after all the previous tests have been passed. Become a member of the Pirchei Shoshanim Chabura. No matter where you live, we will do our best to find you a chavrusa. If there is no one in your area available, it is possible to learn with someone over the phone or by computer to computer. You are able to set a pace for the Semicha Course that fits your personal sched- ule. Kabalas HaTorah – Semicha B’Uman You could receive Semicha in the holy town of Uman where thousands of righteous Yidden died al Kiddush Hashem and where Rebbe Nachman chose to live out his final days! All three elements of The Tikun Olam are present there: Tefilla, Torah and the Tzadik! Seize this unique opportunity to elevate your soul and to take part in the Tikun Olam. Your life will never be the same.

The Chabura receiving smicha at the Kosel