CHILDREN the REBBE’S QUEST to BRING EVERY JEWISH CHILD at the to ASERES HADIBROS FOREFRONT

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SIVAN 5774 ISSUE 20 (97)

IN THE AFTERMATH OF A CALAMITY THE REBBE ENCOURAGES THROUGH SENDING SHLUCHIM

CHILDREN THE REBBE’S QUEST TO BRING EVERY JEWISH CHILD at the TO ASERES HADIBROS FOREFRONT

בס“ד

A Chassidisher Magazine is a publication geared toward Bochurim, published and copyrighted by Vaad Talmidei Hatmimim Haolomi. ISSUE 20 (97) • SIVAN 5774 All articles in this publication are original content written by the staff of A Chassidisher Derher.

Vaad Talmidei Hatmimim Rabbi Tzvi Altein, Director NOT ON OUR WATCH Contributing Editors Rabbi Srolic Barber 4 Dvar Malchus Rabbi Yosef Boruch Friedman Rabbi Shaul Wertheimer WAS BETTER; WILL BE BETTER Rabbi Moshe Zaklikovsky 5 Ksav Yad Design Moshe Wolvovsky MAAMOR IN THE MORNING Special thanks to Rabbi Sholom Ber Baumgarten 6 Yearly Matan Torah Rabbi Yirmi Berkowitz Rabbi Chaim Shaul Brook UNDERSTANDING THE REBBE’S WORDS Rabbi Mendel Gourarie Rabbi Yosef Greenberg 8 A Chassidisher Maise Rabbi Shmuel Greizman Rabbi Levi Gurkow CHILDREN AT THE FOREFRONT Rabbi Yossi Katz Rabbi Yoseph Katzman 10 V’heishiv Leiv Avos Al (Yidei) Bonim Rabbi Bentzion Korf Rabbi Mendel Kotlarsky HELPED BY A HIGHER POWER Rabbi Shalom Dovber Levin Rabbi Yossi Lew 24 As heard from Rabbi Levi Gurkow Rabbi Eliezer Lichtstein Rabbi Hirshel Raskin ”עד מתי?!“ Rabbi Michoel Seligson Rabbi Levi Shemtov 27 A Child’s Cry Rabbi Elkana Shmotkin Rabbi Yitzchok Meir Sossover Rabbi Rephoel Tenenhaus “KLAL YISROEL IS NOT ALONE” Rabbi Yehuda Weg 30 Igros Kodesh

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To subscribe, order a copy, or access 47 Behind the Picture back issues please visit us at www.Derher.org

ABOUT THE COVER: The unique picture featured on the front cover was taken just a short while before the Shluchim embarked upon their mission. Standing from A Chassidisher Derher is honored to Right to Left: Mr. Matis Prizel (of Treiser Tours, feature unique and historic photos from who coordinated the trip), Rabbi Shmuel Jewish Educational Media’s Living Archive photo collection. The Living Fogelman, Rabbi Avrohom Korf, Rabbi Faivel Archive is a project to preserve, and Rimler, Rabbi Yosef Rosenfeld, Rabbi Shalom provide access to the video, audio, and Dovber Butman, Rabbi Hodakov, Rabbi Dovid photographic recordings of the Rebbe. These photos are copyright by JEM and Schochet, Rabbi Shalom Dovber Shemtov, are available at TheLivingArchive.org. Rabbi Shlomo Kirsh, Rabbi Yehuda Krinsky, Rabbi Dr. Nissen Mindel, Mr. Herman Treiser (of Treiser Tours). he current month of Sivan is of special significance to us seemed to be the most eligible and capable in their own right, T as Chassidim, bearing the date of Chof-Ches Sivan, the yet the Rebbe entrusted them with this most important task, and day the Rebbe and Rebbetzin arrived on the safe shores of the with their sincere, unconditional dedication to the Rebbe, they United States from Nazi-occupied Europe. succeeded in touching the lives of all those they encountered. The importance and relevance of a miracle is expounded in More than their own personal qualities, the burning hiskashrus Halacha. A miracle which happened to an individual holds little, to the Rebbe emanating from them all and the loyalty to the if any, significance to others. A miracle which occurred to one’s shlichus he had given them left a profound and everlasting father, even more so to oneself, is of great importance. impression on all. However Chassidus adds an additional level which surpasses It is our hope that our readers will be inspired just as well to the others in importance: A miracle which occurred to one’s strengthen their own dedication to the Rebbe’s wishes, especially Rebbe. A Nosi is one with the Yidden of his generation, as the the bochurim, in whom the Rebbe placed all the necessary Rambam writes1 that the king is the heart of all Yidden. Hence, a kochos, trusting that they will be maximized to the utmost. miracle which occurred to a Nosi is of far greater importance erhaps a most telling chapter recounted in this issue is 2 a mivtza launched ;”והשיב לב אבות על (ידי) בנים“ than a miracle of one’s father. P the story of Being that the exact date of the Rebbe’s arrival was not known by the Rebbe around Pesach time in 5740. until the fifth volume of the Frierdiker Rebbe’s Igros Kodesh was In a fierce campaign to unite and educate all the Jewish 3 published in 5743, it was only in the later years of the Rebbe’s children around the world, the Rebbe stepped out of routine nesius that “Chof Ches Sivan” was marked by Chassidim practice, holding scores of surprise farbrengens, sichos, and worldwide as a day of celebration, with Farbrengens and children’s rallies within the course of a short few months. Hachlotos Tovos in the field of Hafotzos Hamayonos. From 5747 This amazing operation culminated with the founding of on, the Rebbe was magiah a Maamor in honor of the day, and in “Tzivos Hashem” during Tishrei, 5741, unifying all Jewish 5751, gave out to men, women and children the Kuntres “Chof children in an army to fight off the last moments of galus. The th Ches Sivan 5751”, which was published in honor of the 50 sense of urgency could be felt throughout; the need to finally and 4 anniversary of the Rebbe and Rebbetzin’s escape. totally complete the battle and bring Moshiach.

oruch Hashem, there is never a dull moment with A A timely message indeed, for us as Chassidim, and especially B Chassidisher Derher Magazine! the Rebbe’s bochurim. As we approach Gimmel Tammuz yet This current issue, replete withgeshmake verter and stories is again, but now for the 20th (!) time, we are painfully reminded of sure to be well-received and enjoyed by our readers. In addition our dark galus and the desperate need to bring the geulah to the timely articles about the Yom Tov of Shavuos, a focal immediately. Resonating are the words written by the Rebbe in point highlighted within the pages of this edition is of great his holy handwriting just before the first Yud Shevat, 5711: "ר' אברהם, מ'דארף צוריק אראפבריינגען .relevance to the bochurim, the Rebbe’s chosen men דעם רבי'ן. אזוי איז צו שווער – סיי פאר In response to a devastating tragedy that befell the Chassidim מיר, און סיי פאר אייך. און ווער האט of Eretz Yisroel in the early years of his nesius, the Rebbe הנאה דערפון?" selected and sent a group of young bochurim on a daring mission to uplift and inspire the disheartened crowd, bringing With Hashem’s help, long before fresh regards from the Rebbe and carrying his message to every then we will have the geulah and be point on their special trip. reunited with the Rebbe, and as the As you will read in an unprecedented compilation casting Rebbe said many times, we will light on the nature of this episode, these bochurim may not have carry out all the hachonos for the Yom Hahilua together with the Baal Hahilula, teikef umiyad ______1. Hilchos Melachim 3:6 Mammosh! 2. See the sicha of Yud Beis Tammuz 5710 (Toras Menachem vol. 1 p.. 127) 3. Based on the letter dated 28 Sivan; p. 396 The Editors 4. See A Chassidisher Derher magazine issue 4 (Tammuz 5772) for an essay on Erev Rosh Chodesh Sivan, 5774 this topic.

CREDITS: JEM/THE LIVING ARCHIVE

Not on Our Watch!

With Gimmel Tammuz just one month away, each and every chossid reminds himself of the dark galus we ﬁnd ourselves in and the desperate need for the geulah. In this spirit, we bring these powerful words of the Rebbe about the meaning of true hiskashrus to a nossi, and the heartfelt plea of every Yid to be together with his Moshe Rabbeinu. Before the Yidden entered Eretz Yisrael, Hashem commanded Moshe to go up to Har Nevo, where he was to pass away. Rashi writes that when Moshe was going to ascend Har Nevo, the Yidden said: “We swear that if we notice Moshe [ascending the mountain to pass away], we will not let him do so. The man who brought us out of Egypt…and gave us the Torah, we will not let him.” The Rebbe learns a powerful lesson from this story.

.await your deliverance the entire day מה זרעו T he Hiskashrus of the Yidden The first answer to this is that And on Shabbos and Yom Tov we daven .בחיים אף הוא בחיים to Moshe Rabeinu was so powerful that !ותחזינה עינינו בשובך לציון ברחמים -they were desperate that he enter Eretz Additionally, the Zohar says that Tza Yisrael with them. Knowing full well that dikim and Nesiei Yisrael will rise to life Moroever, this is one of the thirteen

אני מאמין באמונה “ :it was Hashem Himself who had com- immediately when Moshiach comes, principles of Emunah ”שלימה בביאת המשיח . . אחכה לו בכל יום שיבוא manded Moshe to ascend Har Nevo to before Techias Hamaisim. This is also pass away, they nevertheless were not clear from the Gemara, which says that - I await him every day. Some say this afraid to contradict Hashem’s command, when the Bais Hamikdash Hashlishi will Ani Maamin every day, and those who and announced, “We will not let him.”.... be built—which will happen before don’t say it—as is minhag Chabad— .כל היום ,This teaches us aHora’a Nifla’a Techias Hamaisim—Aharon, his sons, think about it constantly… about our Hiskashrus to the Rebbe. It and Moshe will be with us. From this is The Rambam paskens in Mishneh To- should be so powerful that it should understood that all Tzadikim will rise to rah, “Anyone who does not believe in bring to a yearning with all one’s might life as soon as Moshiach comes. him or does not await his coming, denies that the Rebbe come with us into Eretz Some people ask: How can you speak not only the statements of the other Yisrael, as a Neshama B’guf, with the such vilde zach’n (wild words)? prophets, but those of the Torah and Geula Ha’amitis V’hashlaima. The answer to them is two-fold: Moshe Rabbeinu!”... One could ask: There was a particular First of all, we live in wild times, when ...After all of this, what is the surprise הקיצו ורננו occurrence in Tof Shin Yud [the the world is covered in darkness. In such that we are speaking about How can this be called vilde ?שוכני עפר .Histalkus of the Frierdiker Rebbe]. If so, a time it is necessary to speak wild words how is it possible to say that the Rebbe More importantly, these aren’t wild zach’n? Sichas Shabbos Parshas Ha’azinu) את צמח דוד עבדך :will enter Eretz Yisrael with us before words. Every Yid davens (we 5746; Hisva’aduyos 5746 vol.1 p. 153 - מהרה תצמיח . . כי לישועתך קוינו כל היום ?Tchiyas Hamaisim

4 | A CHASSIDISHER DERHER

כ ת ב י ד ק ו ד ש

Was Better; Will be Better!

As we approach Gimmel Tammuz, the following Ksav Yad Kodesh is presented.

In 5707, the Rebbe spent Pesach in Paris, France, where he went to greet his mother after her escape from the Soviet Union. While there, he became acquainted with the chossid, Reb Bentzion Shemtov. Four years later, after the Rebbe had already accepted the nesius he wrote this postscript in a letter to Reb Bentzion, reminding him of the peaceful days in France, before the histalkus of the Friediker Rebbe. Noting the pleasant times in Paris, the Rebbe concluded that our only true comfort will be with the coming of Moshiach.

ב' הפ"נ שלו קראתים היום על .I read both of your panim by the Ohel today הציון. איז ניט געווען רוהיגער פסח ?Wasn’t it calmer Pesach 5707 in Paris תש"ז אין פאריז? – איינציגע נחמה: The only comfort is [that] we are four years closer מיט פיר יאר בב"א [=במהרה .to the coming of Moshiach, [may it be] speedily in our days בימינו אמן]. אבער – עס נעמט ניט. .Such a comfort though], is not particularly convincing] ולאידך גיסא: המהוי' יפלא? קען -Yet on the other hand: is there anything too difficult for Ha ער דאך מאכען גאר גוט. ובעגלא shem? He can certainly improve the situation immensely. And may דידן דוקא. .He do so quickly

SIVAN 5774 | 5 לעבן מיט‘ן רבי‘ן

CREDITS: JEM/THE LIVING ARCHIVE

”ויהי ביום MA'AMOR IN השלישי...“ THE MORNING One of the most special moments with the Rebbe on YEARLY Shavuos throughout the years was the early morning Ma’amor known as “Ma’amor Matan Torah.”

MATAN TORAH In the years when the Rebbe had Yom Tov meals in the Frierdiker Rebbe’s apartment, he would return to his room after the meal on the first night of Shavuos. Within a few hours, Chassidim would already prepare for the early morning Ma’amor. The benches were cleared out of the Shul and everyone would stand.

At 3:00am, the Shul became silent as the Rebbe walked in and sat down at his place. The Rebbe had a handkerchief wrapped around his hand and immediately began to recite the Ma’amor (usually without an introductory Niggun).

The following is an excerpt from a letter of Reb Yoel Kahn in which he vividly describes the first time this custom was practiced, on Shavuos, 5712.

6 | A CHASSIDISHER DERHER The Rebbe then asked, “When was it chazzered?”

“ on every Ma’amor, we sat down to review it and When he responded that the chazzora Shabbos Mevorchim,As there was a far- the chazzora went very well. After daven- took place immediately afterwards, the brengen on Shabbos Parshas Bamidbar, ing I reviewed the Ma’amor once more Rebbe said with a big smile “But it was and the Rebbe said a Ma’amor – for those who hadn’t been present when already long past daybreak; they ersht sat “Chamisha Kinyonim.” There was an it was said, and then again that night down to chazzer then? When did they additional Ma’amor with the same Dibur before Kabolas Shabbos. sleep?” Hamaschil on Shavuos night as well, but On the day following Shavuos, an indi- The Rebbe continued: “And what more interesting was the time this vidual was with the Rebbe in Yechidus about the people who weren’t present for Ma’amor was said. and the Rebbe asked him, “What ever the Ma’amor, did they also hear a chaz- Following Seudas Yom Tov, everyone happened with the Ma’amor from Shavu- zora?” The man replied that it was re- gathered in Shul to recite Tikkun. (The os morning, was it reviewed?” He an- viewed again after davening and before Frierdiker Rebbe emphasized the im- swered that indeed it had been. Kabolas Shabbos. portance of reciting “Oisiyos”—simple “Who chazzered it?” the Rebbe asked. The Rebbe was very pleased and con- words of Torah on Shavuos night. He “Yoel.” cluded: “No one tells me good news. A instructed for everyone to recite Tikkun, “But Yoel wasn’t there!” Ma’amor was chazzered three times. and thus, only Tikkun is said, instead of He explained that I arrived soon after. About such things no one bothers to studying Chassidus or the like.) The Rebbe then asked, “When was it notify me…”  Upon completing Tikkun, some people chazzered?” began studying while others simply hung around till morning, when it was time for Mikvah. Unfortunately I had also gone to the Mikvah, and while I was gone, the Rebbe suddenly entered the Shul and asked, “Where is everyone?” (Only fifteen people or so were still in 770.) Someone remarked that everyone had gone to Mikvah. The Rebbe continued, “Yoel is also in the Mikvah?” Someone responded, “Yes,” and the Rebbe said “Ah!” The Rebbe then took off his coat, sat down at his place, and instructed to begin the Nigun [in preparation for a Ma’amor]. In the meantime, someone was sent to the Mikvah to inform us that the Rebbe had appeared in Shul. I met the messenger at the door on my way out and, hearing the news, I obviously ran to the Shul, where I found the Rebbe in the midst of a Ma’amor, with a crowd of only thirty people (some of those who managed to get back from the Mikvah in time). When the Rebbe concluded the CREDITS: JEM/THE LIVING ARCHIVE

SIVAN 5774 | 7

א ח ס י ד י ש ע ר מ ע ש ה

Understanding the Rebbe’s Words

overty and privation seemed to be money to buy food for the Seudos.” the Yom Tov necessities, they barely had P his destined lot. The Rebbe Maharash placed his hand enough space in the wagon for all they Chaim1 lived on the outskirts of Lub- on top of his eyes as if he was peering had bought. avitch and attempted to make a living into the distance and said, “Look into the THE PREPARATIONS BEGIN from a motel he had built there. His loca- horizon and see how many guests are on tion was far from the center of town and Arriving home, the kitchen was soon their way to Lubavitch for Yom Tov. his business venture was not the most taken over with a flurry of activity. How is it that you are just standing profitable. Chaim had his hands full trying to direct here?! Go home very quickly and prepare One year on Erev Shavuos, Chaim left and instruct everyone with what had to a lot of food, so that you will have his house early in the morning and began get done. Neighbors and friends were enough to feed the many guests who will pacing the streets of Lubavitch complete- invited in to help and everyone put in be spending Yom Tov in your motel.” ly oblivious to where he was going. His their best effort. In addition to the abun- Chaim, a simple man, took these mind was weighed down by his plight dance of food that needed preparing, one words at face value and was completely and financial strain. As he continued on hundred beds were also set up to accom- convinced that the Rebbe had seen wag- his absentminded stroll, he unknowingly modate the expected influx of visitors. onloads of Chassidim snaking their way passed through the courtyard of the Reb- Chaim, for the first time in a long in to Lubavitch. He had no doubt that be Maharash who was then standing on while, was quite content knowing that he within a half hour they would arrive by his second story porch. would finally be making some money. the dozen. THE LOAN As the preparations dwindled down However, even with these words of The Rebbe Maharash called his name and the delicious smell of Yom Tov food assurance his problems were still not and asked him, “Why are you so wor- wafted through the air, the excited family solved. “Rebbe, I don’t even have the ried? Today is Erev Shavuos, and at ap- waited around for the big moment when money to buy the ingredients and foods I proach of a Yom Tov we need to be hap- their guests would arrive. need to prepare for the guests.” py!” But it never did. The Rebbe Maharash reached into his Startled with the honor of the Rebbe With the passing of each hour, bring- pocket and took out ten Rubles (a con- personally addressing him, Chaim re- ing Shavuos closer and closer with it, the siderable sum) and handed them to plied, “How can I be happy?! It’s the day expression of joy slowly vanished from Chaim. “Now hurry to the marketplace before Yom Tov but I don’t have enough Chaim’s face. However, he held strong to and get ready for the guests.” the words of the Rebbe and did not lose He raced home and hitched his horse ______trust. “They will come, surely they will Adapted by Adapted from Sefer Raboseinu Nesieinu to the wagon. He gathered his wife and come” he repeated to himself multiple vol. 4. children and they began shopping for all

8 | A CHASSIDISHER DERHER

times. it was discovered that there were three rash. “I have one small question I want to hundred guests and they had only setup ask,” He began, “There is one thing I DESPAIR and prepared for one hundred people. don’t understand, if the Rebbe decided to The sun began to sink low into the sky With only a few minutes to spare and no help me why did there need to be so and took along with it the last vestige of other choice, Chaim took advantage of much pain and heartache on Erev Shavu- his hope and inner strength. It was time the warm summer weather and placed os?” to light the Yom Tov candles and there lots of extra mattresses in the courtyard The Rebbe replied, “You see, when one was not a soul in sight. outside. stands on a high location and the sun is The joy of the anticipated salvation shining brightly one is able to see into quickly turned into worry and despair. It GRATITUDE AND THANKS the distance!” was nearly Yom Tov and there was plen- The Chassidim were truly grateful for To the simple Chaim this was quite a ty of good food but there was no one to his efforts on their part, and they each straight forward explanation and he took eat it, never mind that he would never be made do with a smaller portion of food it a face value. The Rebbe, who had been able to pay back the loan of ten Rubles. to insure that everyone had something to standing elevated, had actually seen the “It seems that it was decreed in heaven eat. wagons making their way to Lubavitch. the little that I had,” sighed Chaim. When Shavuos drew to a close, the The true meaning of the Rebbe Maha- With a heavy heart and no other group of Chassidim thanked Chaim pro- rash’s words was much deeper and re- choice, he set out to Shul. On his way, a fusely for his generosity and care. They ferred to a spiritual seeing. “When one large commotion caught his attention. each paid him a handsome sum of mon- stand on a high location” – on a spiritu- Looking all around for the source of the ey for his services. Indeed, those few days ally elevated level like that of the Rebbe, noise, his eyes fell upon the sight of tens turned out to be very profitable for him “and the sun is shining” – and the physi- of wagons passing his home. His imme- and he had ample money with which to cality doesn’t cover over anything in diate reaction was that a crazed band of pay back his loan. front of the Rebbe, “Then one is able to murderers had come to town, however He immediately set out to the Rebbe see into the distance.” each one of them stopped in front of his Maharsh to thank him for his help. Be- When he had told Chaim that he saw house and he saw groups of Chassidim fore he even had a chance to say any- that wagons were coming, he did not hastily getting out. Seeing Chaim stand- thing, the Rebbe greeted him with a big mean that he physically saw them ap- ing nearby, they begged him, “Reb Yid smile, “Nu, how was your Yom Tov?” proaching Lubavitch but rather, because please help us. In the next few minutes “Oy Rebbe,” he replied, “Boruch Ha- physical limitations do not get in the way Yom Tov will begin and we have no- shem, gratitude and happiness fill my of a Rebbe, he meant he saw that they where to stay. We were on our way to the heart and I thank the Rebbe with all my were destined to come. Chaim, however, Rebbe, but the wagoners got lost and at heart for the kindness that he has be- understood it in its literal sense and the last moment we found another route stowed upon me.” And with that Chaim therefore had been expecting them at any and barely made it to Lubavitch.” took ten Rubles from his pocket and moment, because “the Rebbe had seen Hearing the details of their fiasco, handed them over, paying up his loan in them coming!” Chaim calmed them down, “Don’t worry full. Thanking the Rebbe once again he my fellow Chassidim, I have adequate SEEING AND SEEING went home happy and content.  space for all of you to both eat and He got up to leave the room and ap- ______sleep.” 1. No name is cited in the original text. We have proached the door, but before he made After the initial excitement died down, assumed the name Chaim for clarity purposes. his exit he turned to the Rebbe Maha-

SIVAN 5774 | 9 10 | A CHASSIDISHER DERHER CHILDREN at the FOREFRONT

"והשיב לב אבות על (ידי) בנים"

In the spring of 5740, in a sweeping campaign, the Rebbe not only called upon Chassidim to intensify their activities for Jewish children, but radically redefined what it meant that every child counts. In a whirlwind of unexpected farbrengens and children’s- rallies, the Rebbe laid the roots for what would eventually become the flagship organization for Jewish children. Today it is common practice for mothers to come to shul on the first day of Shavuos with toddlers who are perhaps just days old, but there was a time when this was all but standard.

Through the following pages you will journey through the moments and stories behind this landmark takono, and even earlier than that…

לזכות החיל בצבאות ה' מנחם מענדל בן מנוחה רחל לרפואה שלימה בקרוב ברמ"ח איבריו ושס"ה גידיו

CREDITS: JEM/THE LIVING ARCHIVE

SIVAN 5774 | 11

he date is 29 Iyar, erev Rosh behind the Iron Curtain, the Rebbe sud- child. Chodesh Sivan 5740. Chassi- denly begins addressing the crowd…in But let us go back two months earli- dim, as well as tens of thou- Russian!2 er…. sands of other Jews, are fast- The days leading up to Shavuos are Ed Note: In order to adequately realize Ting following a call issued some time duly utilized by Chassidim to host chil- the rarity of these events, it should be earlier by the Agudas HaRabbonim of dren’s-rallies and to publicize the Rebbe’s made clear, that although throughout the the United States and Canada, advising call for bringing even little children to years the Rebbe’s public behavior changed all the Jewish communities to partake in shul on Shavuos morning, for the read- several times, nonetheless it could be said a taanis shaos, a half-day fast, due to the there was an ‘unofficial’ pattern to specific sensitive situation in Eretz Yisroel. On occurrences, such as which dates would be the preceding Shabbos, the Rebbe an- marked with a farbrengen, when would nounced his compliance with this kol sichos be muga for publication and so on kore, and instructed Chassidim to go in many other elements. Therefore a break along with it.1 The unexpected in any which way of a particular pattern, After mincha, the Rebbe delivers a was translated as a message to indicate sicha, explaining the uniqueness of the announcement spread either emphasis or triviality of a given day as a fast day on the threshold of Rosh point. As we will see, this will have signifi- Chodesh. Soon, the topic of the sicha like wildﬁre, and at cant value throughout the course of our turns to children and to the major role article. they’ve played in Jewish life since time 9:30 p.m. everyone On Erev Rosh Chodesh Nissan 5740, immemorial. The Rebbe quotes the mid- upon returning from the Ohel, after rash which describes how Jewish chil- gathered in 770 for Davening Mincha-Ma’ariv the Rebbe dren served as guarantors that the yidden informed the mazkirus, that there would will keep the Torah, and how that was the surprise be a farbrengen that very evening. the only proposition accepted by Ha- Usually, the Rebbe farbrenged every shem after refusing several previous farbrengen Shabbos Mevorchim and on yomei ones. The Rebbe then urges that children depagra, whether on weekdays or Shab- rallies be held wherever it is that children bos. A farbrengen on Rosh Chodesh, learn, so that they may be taught and however, was highly unusual, and it had declare their bond and commitment to not entered anyone’s mind that there Torah just as they had done so long, long may be a farbrengen. To the extent that a ago. The Rebbe further suggests that for ing of the Asseres Hadibros. full bus of bochurim had traveled to those in Eretz Yisroel, the rallies should A special rally was held on Gimmel Montreal for a friend’s chasuna confident be held at the Kosel and in other me- Sivan during which the Rebbe spoke di- that there would be no farbrengen during komos hakedoshim, and if a necessary rectly to the children, encouraging them their absence. In fact, even the Rebbe’s permit must be issued to reach those to come hear the Aseres Hadibros. Ad- mazkir, Rabbi Groner, was instructed to places (such as Chevron, and Kever dressing the children behind the Iron go to the wedding and given a shlichus Rochel), they will be surely obtained. The Curtain, the Rebbe spoke again a full mitzvah by the Rebbe for the trip, further climax of the call to gather Jewish chil- sicha in Russian! confirming that no farbrengen would dren seems to come when the Rebbe take place. THE STORY BEHIND THE STORY petitions parents to take all their children The unexpected announcement spread The roots for this surprise campaign to shul on Shavuos so that they may be like wildfire, and at 9:30 p.m. everyone actually began earlier than that Erev present for the reading of the Asseres gathered in 770 for the surprise far- Rosh Chodesh. Hadibros, even the very young – less brengen. The Rebbe spoke on a wide For several weeks before this date the than one month of age. range of topics, and deep into the far- Rebbe lead a comprehensive and exhaus- Asserting that his call is universal, and brengen the Rebbe announced that the tive campaign addressing the Jewish that it applies even to children who are time had come to embark on a new ave-

12 | A CHASSIDISHER DERHER

nue: to prepare for Pesach beginning how they’ve contributed to with the participation of children. the campaign. Failure to The Rebbe laid out his plan: children sending a report will mean should be spoken to in the next two nothing less than one has weeks, (although, in truth, preparations clearly nothing to write for Yom Tov should really have begun for he has done as two weeks earlier – shloshim yom lifnei much… hachag) and should be encouraged to ask Referring to the posuk their parents to give them an active part in Malaachi describing in getting the family and the house ready Eliyohu Hanovi’s arrival for Pesach. The Rebbe explained: The heralding the geula, the Rambam teaches that the way to stimu- Rebbe said that the time late a child into action is through compe- had come for the fulfill- tition and games, so too we should give ment of “Vehayshiv lev the children the feeling that they matter, avos al bonim- al yedei and that, in fact, the child’s entire home bonim”; to reach the could be ready and clean for Pesach and parents by means of clear of chometz – entirely in their merit! their children’s en- The Rebbe stressed that when a child is couragement, much as spoken to, in an honest, direct and genu- mivtza neshek had ine manner, -- they respond accordingly. achieved, and was still The Rebbe left no doubt about whom achieving.3 he was asking to participate in this cam- THE MATZAH BALL paign. The Rebbe asked that everyone CONTEST submit a duch – a report to him, listing The following day, what they’ve done in this regard, and

THE ORIGINAL BROCHURES ADVERTISING THE MATZAH BALL CONTEST AND THE COMIC THAT WAS SENT ALONG WITH IT.

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CREDITS: JEM/THE LIVING ARCHIVE

בשעת ס'וועט קומען צוגיין זיינער אן אייניקל, אדער זייינער א קינד פון צוזאמען מיט א גאנצער פאלק אין ארץ מצרים, וואס דארט איז דער קינדער -גארטן, און וועט עם דערציילן אז היינט האט ער געהערט א פאלק געווען א מיעוט, און ארום זיי זיינען געווען קינדער פון מצרים, און מעשה נפלא, אז ס'איז געווען א פאלק און דאס איז דער פאלק פון אעפ''כ האט ער דער אויבערשטער געמאכט פאר א ''מעסענדזשער'', און וואנעט ער שטאמט וואס זיינען געווען הונדערטער יאר אין א ''סופער - האט עם אריינגעשיקט פון ''דעזערט'' אין עיר הבירה – די גרעסטע פאווער'', און דערנאך איז געקומען צוגיין א איד וואס האט געהייסן משה שטאט, און האט עם דארט געהייסן אז ער זאל גיין מיט'ן גאנצ'ן רבינו, וואס דאס איז אלץ ביי עם א חידוש גדול, ער האט ניט געוואוסט שטארקייט און זאגן ''שלח עמי ויעבדוני''! גייט ארויס אין מדבר און דינט פון דעם גאנצן ענין, ער האט געוואוסט אז ס'איז דא א ''מאוזעס'', ער דעם אויבערשטען! האט געוואוסט אז ס'איז דא א ''בייבל'', ער האט אבער ניט געוואוסט און זעלבערפארשטענדליך אז דער ''סופאר -פאווער'' איז ניט נתפעל וואס האט דאס פאר א קשר מיט עם. געווארן, און אעפ''כ האט געטאן זיך די אלע סיפורים וואס מ'דערציילט דאס איז א ''סאבדזשעקט'' וואס ער דארף לערנען, דערפאר וועט מען עם שוין אין ''קינגער גארטן'', לפי הבנתו והשגתו. עם געבן די ציונים טובים – אז דאס האט א שייכות מיט עם, מיט זיין גוף, און דערנאך זאגט מען עם, אז דאס וואס וועט זיין אין פערצן טעג ארום מיט זיין נשמה און זיין טאג טעגליכן אויפפירן, אט דאס האט מען עם אדער אין דרייצן טעג ארום, וועט זיין חמשה עשר בניסן, זאלסטו וויסן פארגעסן דערציילן! אדער מ'האט ניט געוואוסט אז מ'דארף עם דאס זיין אז די נאכט פאר דערויף ביזטו אט דער וואס אויף דיר וועט זיך דערציילן, אדער מ'האט אויך גארניט געוואוסט אז דאס האט טאקע א האלטן דער גאנצער סדר, ווארום דו וועסט דארפן פרעגן די פיר קשיות, קשר! און דער טאטע וועט זיך צוהערן, און דערנאך וועט ער דיר ענטפערן אויף במילא אז מ'דערציילט דאס א קינד – א קינד פארשטייט ניט קיין די קשיות, און וועט דיר געבן פון די ד' כוסות וכו', דו דארפסט נאר זען אז שפיצלאך, און פארשטייט ניט קיין וויצן, ער נעמט ענינים כפשוטם, מ'זאל זיין אלץ צוגעגרייט ווי ס'דארף צו זיין, און אז קיינער זאל ניט בפרט נאך אז די פשטות הענינים דאס איז אמיתית הענינים. אנשלאפן ווערן. און קומט דערנאך צוגיין אהיים און דערציילט מיט התפעלות אז היינט וועט דאס אויפטאן און מאכן א מהפכה לטובה אין צענדליקער טויזנטער האט ער זיך דערוואוסט אז ''מאוזעס'' האט א שייכות צו עם, און אז דער אידישע הייזער! ''מאוזעס'' וואס ער הייסט אויף לשון הקודש ''משה'', איז ער געווען (ליל ר''ח ניסן תש''מ)

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protocol is broken again4 when the Reb- be participates in a children’s rally, arranged in haste following the previous’ day sicha. In a rare display of personal involvement, the Rebbe instructs Rabbi Groner to bring coins, which he will distribute to each and every child. In a short while a hanocho of the sichos delivered by the rally is produced, and the Rebbe in an unusual fashion, is magiah the sicha. The ensuing weeks are ones of great enthusiasm: the Rebbe just proclaimed a new initiative demanding everyone’s involvement, and there are less than two weeks to implement it! Under the guidance of Reb Dovid Raskin, of the Lubav- itch Youth Organization (Tzach), and CREDITS: JEM/THE LIVING ARCHIVE working with Rabbi Yaakov Yehuda Hecht of NCFJE, bochurim and yungeleit alike brainstorm for an adequate response to the Rebbe’s call. Shortly there- horaos. after “The Matzah Ball Contest” is creat- “SHTUREM UN BREN’’ ed (see pictures), inviting children to Not long after the first two instances participate by helping out with Pesach addressing this new initiative, the Rebbe preparations and sending in their accom- began the farbrengen,''we find ourselves plishments to enter a raffle and win priz- The clock is ticking, in the midst of the shturem and the en- in connection with the (”ברען“) es.5 thusiasm Together with the contest, a comic and things quickly activities with children’’. The Rebbe con- book is commissioned from artist Michel tinued to emphasize how the children Schwartz (see picture) and distributed develop in hold the key to bring the geula, much as with the manual for the contest. it was in the story of Purim, when Mor- The clock is ticking, and things quickly astronomical dechai gathered the children of Shushan develop in astronomical proportions; a to study Torah. quarter of a million brochures (!)6 are A SPECIAL THANK YOU printed to hand out in the tri-state area. proportions; a Children are the foremost topic, once Nearly every major Jewish newspaper again. On this holy and special day, the sports a full-page ad of the new initia- quarter of a million Rebbe requests that more children get tive.7 Lubavitcher Chassidim are seen in involved in the preparations for Pesach, every supermarket setting up stands and brochures are if they have not yet done so, and under- doing just about anything possible to lines the crucial role they play in bring- promulgate their message as much as printed to hand out ing about the geula ho’amitis ve’hashlei- possible!! mo. Most strikingly the Rebbe thanks the The “march of time” must have slowed children, in addition to the gratitude for the Rebbe’s Chassidim, for in barely in the tri-state area directed toward the adults, for the bro- two weeks, there is hardly a Jewish child chos and good wishes they sent the Reb- who wasn’t exposed to the campaign. be in honor of the Rebbe’s birthday! The Rebbe takes personal involvement throughout, giving written and oral

SIVAN 5774 | 15

termined position in ahavas yisroel and in all matters of Torah and mitzvos, specifically, through the actions of children. In an extraordinary display of affection, the Rebbe thanked the children for their efforts in assisting with Pesach preparations. Furthermore, the Rebbe underscored the importance for the leadership of children to be firm in their commitment and observance, since the message they impart to their following is crucial. Later the Rebbe instructed his mazkirus to forward the points mentioned in the sicha to the Prime Minister of Israel, Mr. Menachem Begin, and to inform him that the sicha was delivered at a time when there was an obligation

CREDITS: JEM/THE LIVING ARCHIVE upon the Rebbe, al pi Shluchan Aruch, to perform bedikas chometz, and that the Rebbe nevertheless used the time to “ES SHOKELT ZICH’’ speak the sicha! Once again, the Rebbe is Upon his return from the Ohel, Rabbi magiah the sicha for publication. Zalmon Shimon Dworkin went in to the It was already late at night but never- Rebbe’s room and the Rebbe sold his theless, after such a strong message from Chometz. The Rebbe then davened min- the Rebbe in such an unexpected time, cha, after which it became known that bochurim took to the streets once again, the Rebbe will deliver a sicha following In the days following searching even in the New York City maariv. A microphone was hastily set up Kosher pizza shops, to find more chil- in the upstairs shul, at the Rebbe’s table.8 Pesach (and earlier dren to be included in the new campaign. After maariv, the Rebbe sat down, placed As mentioned, every day saw increased his hand on his forehead, and while look- as well) responses activity in publicizing the Rebbe’s mes- ing downward began speaking about sage. No stone was left unturned and no “Vehayshiv lev avos al bonim,” the are ﬂooding into the avenue of outreach was dismissed as too theme of the ongoing children’s cam- large or too small. Rabbi Yehuda Weg, paign. Shliach to Tulsa, Oklahoma, recalls how Then the Rebbe’s voice took on a very “Matzah Ball one morning shortly before Pesach, as serious tone, and with closed eyes and the Rebbe was being driven from the employing very intense and extraordi- Contest” office with mikvah, the car stopped on Kingston nary expressions began to talk about the Avenue near Eastern Parkway, where a an overwhelming "אלע ענינים .security of Eretz Yisroel line of vans were parked and bochurim ,Things are shaking“ שאקלען זיך" were hard at work strapping down bicy- especially in Eretz Yisroel” – the Rebbe 50,000 children cles to the top of the vans. These were for said, and if Eretz Yisroel is trembling in publicizing the campaign and the raffle matters pertaining to security and liveli- in the Matzah-Ball contest. The bo- hood, it is a direct consequence of a spir- participating! churim, many not even in hat or jacket, itual quiver -- of a wavering and unsure were totally engrossed in what they were stance in matters of Torah and mitzvos. doing, and didn't notice the Rebbe ob- The Rebbe declared that the defeat of our serving everything from his window. The enemies would come by assuming a de- nachas ruach radiating from the Rebbe’s

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RABBI DOVID RASKIN AND RABBI SHMUEL BUTMAN ARE JOINED BY MAYOR ED KOCH IN ADVERTISING THE HORAV MOSHE FEINSTEIN’S LETTER ENCOURAGING MATZAH BALL CONTEST IN WALDBAUM’S SUPERMARKET. CREDITS: RASKIN FAMILY ARCHIVES PARTICIPATION IN THE LAG B’OMER PARADES.

face was truly remarkable. Shacharis, calling for kinusim of children. The farbrengen is replete Rabbi Weg recalls another interesting children to be held on shvi’i shel with references to children, their account: Pesach. uniqueness and importance. “I remember it was the first night of Every effort was made for Musaf to  Another striking event is a fascinat- Pesach, and the Rebbe was making his conclude leaving enough time for ing sicha the Rebbe spoke on Shab- yearly visit to the sedorim of the bo- the Rebbe to deliver the sicha before bos Parshas Shmini9, the Shabbos churim and girls. On his way from Yom Tov would begin in Eretz Yis- after Pesach, where, addressing the F.R.E.E. to Machon Chana, Rabbi Yaa- roel, which is seven hours ahead. needs and behaviors of young chil- kov Yehuda Hecht told the Rebbe that The Rebbe made a specific mention dren, the Rebbe parallels playing ball 22,000 children participated in the Ha- to the audience listening half a world with serving Hashem: chanos for Pesach in Eretz Yisroel, as the away, and said that since in Eretz “When a Jewish child plays ball with Rebbe requested, to which the Rebbe Yisroel, Shevi’i and Acharon Shel a non-Jewish child, the non-Jewish- answered: Pesach coincide, the theme of the child seeks a personal victory. In con- -kinusim should involve a Seudas trast, the Jewish child seeks the victo " פאר מרדכי צוויי און צוואנציק טויזינט ,Moshiach as well. ry of Yiddishkeit. He wears Tzitzis קינדער איז געוועו גענוג. איך דארף האב'ן In New York, a gathering is indeed eats Kosher, and prays before he אסאך מער!" “For Mordechai 22,000 kids was scheduled to take place on the next plays ball. This makes him play bet- enough, I need to have much more!” day in the upstairs shul in 770. On ter. If he wins, he thanks Hashem for Throughout the next days and weeks, his way to his office, the Rebbe walks his victory.” every occasion brings along new expres- over to the door of zal and looks in In the days following Pesach (and ear- sions of the Rebbe’s intimate involve- on the rally, while vigorously clap- lier as well) responses are flooding into ment and care for the activities related to ping his hands and encouraging the the “Matzah Ball Contest” office with an children. Some stand out for their unu- singing. overwhelming 50,000 children participat- sual character and rarity:  At the farbrengen of Acharon Shel ing!  On the final morning of Chol Ha- Pesach, the Rebbe asks the children Rabbi Yosef Katzman relates: In those moed Pesach, the Rebbe (still wear- to sing a lively niggun, and claps his days, not a single computer existed in ing his Talis) spoke a sicha after hands spiritedly while facing the Crown Heights. Nevertheless it was clear

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CREDITS: JEM/THE LIVING ARCHIVE that with such a large number of chil- If opposition is said to be a measuring Meanwhile, in Eretz Yisroel prepara- dren, a sufficient database needed to be stick to one’s success, it can be safely tions are under way for a large parade, made. All this was done in a very short stated that the parade was making waves and one Chossid, the late Rabbi Nochum amount of time. We came across the around the world. So when someone Cohen of Tzach, coins the slogan ‘dynatron’ company and within no time spoke out against attending the parade, “Yachad Kol Yaldei Yisroel,” which be- the database was put together. The Bo- leading figures of worldwide Jewry, such comes the official motto of the parade. churim literally didn’t let the workers as Rabbi Moshe Feinstein and the Lev This would be the first time parades sleep until it was ready. Now, prizes were Simcha of Ger came out in support of the would be held in Eretz Yisroel, and the sent to thousands of kids who participat- event, giving their full support and en- instruction came on very short notice. ed and the obvious continuation to the couraging one and all to attend. Preparations had to be completed in campaign would be to utilize this incred- great haste. LAG B’OMER PARADES WORLDWIDE ible resource to reach more children and There were individual instances in the On Sunday Daled Iyar, the Rebbe is- bring them to the Lag B’omer parade. following days when the Rebbe asked sued a call for 120 parades to be orga- Brochures were printed and sent to all of people, whether they were involved in nized across the United States and 30 them, and advertising efforts increased making a parade in their city. For in- parades to be held in the rest of the exponentially. stance, the Rebbe instructed his mazkirus world.10

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to call Chicago and inquire as to the latest developments.

THE SHABBOS BEFORE On the Shabbos before Lag Bomer, upon arriving in 770, the Rebbe let it be known, through his mazkirus, that he would hold a farbrengen. At the farbrengen, the Rebbe repeated- ly spoke about the upcoming parade, and instructed Rabbis Yaakov Yehudah Hecht and Shmuel Butman to say L’chaim. CREDITS: JEM/THE LIVING ARCHIVE The Rebbe requested that following the parade a book be published containing essays by the children describing the event and what they thought of it. The best essays should be selected, and printed alongside pictures of the children marching at the Parade11. Furthermore, the Rebbe said that the said book should be published in many languages, starting with Loshon Hako- desh, Russian, English, Farsi and more. The book was later published following the Rebbe’s request (see picture). On Motzei Shabbos, the Rebbe arrived relatively early for Maariv, which many interpreted as being an encouragement of the parade efforts, and leaving more time for them to prepare. The Rebbe’s inlaid wood table in the upstairs shul, was customarily covered with a clear plastic table cloth, and re- moved a few minutes before the Rebbe’s expected entrance. Now, with the Reb- be’s unexpected arrival some 15 minutes early, the Rebbe simply placed his siddur on the plastic as the bochurim scrambled in all directions!

A PHENOMENAL TURNOUT! Increased efforts were made to bring as many children as possible to the grand parade in Crown Heights. With the help of the database prepared from the Mat- zah-ball contest, scores of children were now reachable and invited to join. CREDITS: JEM/THE LIVING ARCHIVE Ahead of the parade, a special agree- SCENES FROM THE LAG B’OMER PARADE IN 5740. BEHIND THE REBBE HANGS A BANNER DISPLAYING THE POSSUK ment had been reached with the MTA VEHEISHIV LEV AVOS. and subway trains were running directly

SIVAN 5774 | 19

from Brighton Beach, a heavily Jewish there would be a farbrengen that very neighborhood, to Crown Heights to facil- night!! itate the way for thousands of Russian At the farbrengen the Rebbe expound- kids. In addition to that, hundreds of ed upon the new motto – Yachad Kol buses were arriving non-stop, delivering Yaldei Yisroel, and brought it in to the thousands of children and adults. From every street theme of the latest campaign of Vehay- An unprecedented 20,000 people from shiv Lev Avos al Bonim. all neighborhoods and backgrounds were corner, one could see On a different note, The Rebbe spoke in attendance again about the dire situation in Eretz Despite the burning sun, the Rebbe parents with Yisroel, and warned against giving away spoke to the children for a total of almost Jewish land, chas vesholom, in exchange two hours, a very long time for parade- strollers and for “peace.” – Painfully reflecting upon sichos, even delivering an entire sicha in the most recent act of terror. Russian! The Rebbe also spoke strong If people were satisfied with what had words about the situation in Eretz Yis- children following been achieved thus far in reaching tens of roel (one day earlier, a terrorist shot and thousands of Jewish children, the Rebbe killed a Yeshivah bochur in Chevron.) along, all making insisted on more; more rallies, more ac- The international campaign turned out tivities and more children. to be a superb success with scores of their way to 770; a The Rebbe asked that a meeting be numbers of children gathering at parades held immediately following this far- across the globe, and especially in Eretz beautiful sight to brengen where plans would be discussed Yisroel. as how to keep the enthusiasm of Lag The hundreds of bochurim and B’omer going with programs for Jewish yungeleit who worked tirelessly for days behold! children in the days that follow. and nights before Lag B’omer, finally At the end of the Farbrengen, the Reb- slipped away for some well-earned rest… be gave the leftover Mezonos to Rabbi but not for long because upon returning Yaakov Yehuda Hecht as a participation from the Ohel, the Rebbe announced that in the upcoming activities. Immediately, a children’s rally with the Rebbe’s taking part is called for Chof Iyar, a mere two days later. By now there are no surprises anymore, since each passing day shattered the expectations of common practice. Between this day and Shavuos more farbrengens and rallies took place, each containing extraordinary references to the power of children, and their ability to defeat the enemy that threatens us. In particular, on Erev Shavuos, the Rebbe fiercely defended the opposition to the parade coming from a certain individual in Bnei Brak, and said that upon seeing the great success, one can only wonder what possible argument can be made against it. There is no explanation to such a phe- nomenon; hence the name ‘sinnas chi- nom’ – it has no reason whatsoever!” the A NEWSPAPER CLIPPING DESCRIBING THE ENORMOUS LAG B’OMER PARADE IN ERETZ YISROEL IN 5740. Rebbe said. “Thousands of children gath-

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CREDITS: JEM/THE LIVING ARCHIVE

ered together and pronounced ‘Shma dren should come to Shul on Shavuos, to Yisroel’. How can a Yid oppose such a hear the Aserres Hadibros. We drove the thing?!” van all around New York, and it attract- PREPARATIONS FOR SHAVUOS ed a lot of attention. Shortly after the Sicha of erev Rosh One night the van was parked in front Chodesh Sivan, Chassidim got to work in of 770, just at the time when the Rebbe publicizing the Rebbe’s call (as men- was going to be leaving towards his tioned earlier). Once again, a full page ad home. Unsure of what the Rebbe’s reac- was put in to “The Jewish Press” stating: tion would be, a number of Bochurim “Coming soon, a synagogue near you, stood around in anticipation of the Reb- Aseres Hadibros, Children bring your be’s exit. When the Rebbe came out, he parents, parents bring your children.” spent a fair amount of time examining The text of the ad was based on the the words on top and with a big smile posuk the Rebbe mentioned frequently encouraged the singing of those who during this period; “v’heishiv leiv avos al stood around. (yidei) bonim.” On the first day of Shavuos, notwith- Rabbi Raphael Tennenhaus relates: standing the heavy downpour, every “In order to publicize the Rebbe’s mes- THE BOOK PUBLISHED FOLLOWING THE LAG B’OMER Crown Heights family made sure their PARADE 5740 AS PER THE REBBE’S HORA’A. sage, we got a van with flashing lights child was present in shul at the reading and words on it, which stated that chil- of the Aseres Hadibros, in compliance with the Rebbe’s historic call.

SIVAN 5774 | 21

The bima for Krias Hatorah was children. moved slightly towards the back of the THE FINISH OF A LONG START shul, and throughout the entire front Throughout the summer months, the area, benches were designated for the Rebbe shows more outstanding and rare many children who would come to listen displays of fondness to children, with to Asseres Hadibros. numerous rallies and gatherings punctu- From every street corner, one could ating the hot summer, leading to a cli- see parents with strollers and children max of this unprecedented campaign. following along, all making their way to Even during the “nine days”12 the Reb- 770; a beautiful sight to behold! be held two children’s rallies and distrib- By the farbrengen the following day uted dimes for the children to give to the Rebbe again spoke about Vehayshiv tzedoka. Lev Avos Al (yedei) Bonim. A half a year after the onset of this A week later at the Yud Beis Sivan sweeping call and extraordinary efforts, it Farbrengen the Rebbe asked that more becomes obvious that in addition to spir- children’s gatherings be held in continu- itually securing the situation in Eretz ation to Shavuos. Once again the Rebbe Yisroel and the world at large, the Rebbe said that in addition to the many gather- had also prepared us for the dawn of a ings taking place, a special one should be new era in outreach to Jewish children of held near the Kosel and by the other me- every background – with the founding of komos hakdoshim in Eretz Yis- Tzivos Hashem on Sukkos-Simchas To- roel. When a duch was sent in informing rah 5741. the Rebbe that preparations were under- After announcing the need to organize way for a rally that Wednesday, the Reb- Jewish children in Tzivos hashem, that be answered in writing: year on both Shmini Atzeres and Sim- " בודאי יעשה גם עתה באופן שיעשה רושם chas Torah, the Rebbe danced a special בכל העולם כולו מיט ַא ַקנאק גדול כפשוט" Hakofa with the children in the middle “Now as well, they will most certainly of 770. As it turned out, this huge cam- do it in a manner that will have an effect paign was actually the commencement of on the entire world with a large ‘bang’; a new initiative in the realm of education obviously”. for Jewish children, with many more In addition to the regular crowd of years of rallies and sichos geared directly children in attendance at this rally, many to them. Every Jewish child is to be en- Public School children also came, filling listed in the new army, fighting off the up 770 from wall to wall with thousands last moments of golus and paving the of Yiddishe children. Once reaching his way to bring Moshiach Now!  place the Rebbe turned around and en- ______couraged the singing of the children vig- 1. The Rebbe initiated the coordination of this orously. fast, although it was publicized in the name of The Rebbe’s Asseres Hadibros cam- Agudas Horabonim. 2. The Rebbe later edited this sicha for publica- paign continued and grew throughout tion. See Likutei Sichos vol 23, pages 245-255. the years, with newspaper advertisements 3. The Rebbe told a story of how one little girl’s and signs (see pictures) touting its sig- Shabbos candle affected a slow, yet meaningful nificance especially for children. revolution in her home. Bit by bit her parents began feeling how the atmosphere in the home Interestingly, when the Rebbe recited a must be made to match the spiritual aura of the surprise ma’amor on Erev Shavuos, 5749, Shabbos candles. See Sichos Kodesh 5740 Vol.2 the Rebbe made mention of the im- p. 498. portance for everyone to be in shul and 4. In those years, children’s rallies were generally held twice a year: on Chol Hamoed Sukkos and hear the Asseres Hadibros; especially the Chanukah. 5. The original raffle didn’t contain any ‘holy’

22 | A CHASSIDISHER DERHER

THE REBBE’S HAGAHOS ON ADVERTISEMENTS INVITING CHILDREN TO HEAR THE ASSERES HADIBROS. THE REBBE CROSSED OUT THE WORD “YOUNGSTERS” AND ALONGSIDE IT WROTE: “ALL OF THEM EVEN SMALL BABIES.”

prizes, and at the Rebbe’s behest a fourth prize was added to the list as a set of seforim (Likutei Sichos Vols. 1-15, the latest of which was re- leased some two months prior in honor of Yud Shevat – 30 years). 6. When organizers suggested that more brochures be printed, the Rebbe responded that this was way out of practical proportions (“a guzma”). 7. The Rebbe was magiah these ads before they were sent to the Newspaper. 8. Left of the Aron Kodesh. 9. At this farbrengen the Rebbe also hinted to the term Matzah Ball contest: מ'קומט דאך איצטער פון חודש ניסן, א חודש מיט גילויים, וואס מ'האט זיך עוסק געווען אין מבצעים.... בכללות – מיט דעם יו''ט פון פסח: מיט פארקויפן דעם חמץ, און מאכן א קערה, און עסן מצה און טרינקען פיר כוסות ביי דעם סדר, און אוועקזעצן דעם קינד הויבן -אן באם טיש, און פרעגן די שאלות , און עסן קניידלעך, און טיילן ''פרייזעס'' וכו' 10. Rabbi Hirshel Raskin relates that Chassidim spoke then amongst themselves that these numbers were perhaps correspondent to it being the 120th year since the birth of the Rebbe Rashab and 30 years of the Rebbe Nesius. See A Chas- sidisher Derher magazine Iyar 5774 for more details about these parades. 11. The Rebbe gave specific instructions such as: The pictures should not only be from far away, to show the large crowd, but also close-ups of children’s faces, so that they may later find their own picture in the book, and feel proud. Also, the writers of the best accounts should be awarded a prize. 12. On Erev Rosh Chodesh Av after returning from the Ohel the Rebbe said a Sicha upstairs after Maariv as he did on the eve of Erev Pesach. The Rebbe asked that further Rallies be held during the nine days, once again mentioning the Kosel and the other Mekomos Hakdoshim.

SIVAN 5774 | 23

HELPED BY A HIGHER POWER

In a recent interview with A Chassidisher Derher, Rabbi Levi Yitchok Gurkow, Shliach in Oceanside, Long Island, related the following episode about one of his Mekuravim

Meir, a respected member of our com- family developed with the Rebbe and the in this illegal activity, I will make it my munity, is the owner of the trucking Ohel made the trip to Queens an integral business to end agreements between company “Moe’s Trucking” in part of the family routine. yourself and UPS”. Oceanside, Long Island. When he began During Chanukah of 5771, Meir expe- Meir found himself in a difficult posi- exploring Yidishkeit more seriously rienced a miracle of his own at the Ohel. tion. He was unable to approach superi- about five years ago, he started paying ors at UPS because surely they wouldn’t THE THREAT MATERIALIZED occasional visits to the Ohel and as his believe him. Getting the authorities in- The United Parcel Service (UPS) is one Shliach I would always accompany him. volved could make things difficult for of Meir’s most lucrative clients. Among One day, during a conversation with Meir as well. other services, Meir rents out trucks and Meir, I told him, “The Rebbe belongs to Cooperation with UPS was a decent drivers to companies for short-term jobs everyone personally, you don’t need me share of his income which he had no in the New York area. The work between to come with you!” This statement really desire to give up. On the other hand, as Meyer’s local company and the interna- had its desired effect on Meir and he an honest and truthful person, he refused tional UPS was conducted successfully began visiting the Ohel on his own and to cooperate with the crooked actions of and smoothly, keeping both sides very increased his visits to about twice a this man and break the law. So he tried to satisfied. month. appease him, hoping that he will reach One day something went wrong. One As the successful owner of a thriving into his heart and convince him to re- of the senior employees at UPS, who was business, Meir won the respect and es- tract his threats. He sent gifts for his known to be somewhat unscrupulous in teem of many members of our communi- birthday, and invited him along to the character and dubious in his actions, ty. As a result, Meir also gained the abil- baseball game they both enjoyed. started harassing Meir to join him in ity to influence people he knew from the But to no avail. Meir was at a loss. He some shady business. The harassment community, whom he brought along did not allow himself to be drawn into worsened, until it began sounding like with him on his visits to the Ohel. crime, and as a result, just watched des- real threats. He put forth an ultimatum The spiritual bond that Meir and his pairingly as UPS slowly severed ties with to Meir, “If you fail to cooperate with me

24 | A CHASSIDISHER DERHER

him and turned to his competitors. thousands of trucks annually to other Meir, depressed as he was, did not lose shipping companies throughout the U.S., his temper. He knew where the address is asking to speak with him! was to pour out his heart regarding his To put things into perspective, all of difficult situation. He headed for the Meir’s business operations does not Ohel, secluded himself in a corner of the amount to much of the national, inter- tent, and began to write a pan to the Reb- state company of the caller. The only be. He laid out all the details that tran- communication ever made between the spired, not leaving anything out. The companies, was when Meir joined the pages filled up quickly, and he held noth- long list of customers and purchased ing back. several trucks. It’s unheard of that such a Towards the end, when he felt he had distinguished CEO would speak with finished transcribing the entire incident, such an insignificant customer. he recalled his two sons, young men in It turns out, that one of the main com- their twenties and thirties, who helped pany divisions of this large trucking him in his trucking company, and his company is located in Long Island, and heart ached. the owner is Jewish. Meir’s astonishment, “They do not show any emotion or however, increased sevenfold, as the man connection for Yiddishkeit,” he wrote in politely inquired as to the location of his pan. In every such letter he made a Meir’s office and whether he is now MEIR IS HONORED WITH LIGHTING THE MENORAH AT point to mention them, and ask the Reb- CHABAD OF OCEANSIDE’S CHANUKAH PARTY. speaking from his home or office. Sur- be's blessing that at least they marry a prised, Meir answers the question and he Jew. With a broken heart, he walked into hears the caller say “So, I’m coming to the Ohel and immersed himself in pray- visit you in your home. Maybe we'll have er, his tears flowing freely. Meir came out a Chanukah party together”. of the Ohel with his heart several tons Meir, still trying to digest this strange lighter. His future was in the best hands. conversation, does not believe what he’s Henceforth, the Rebbe will certainly take hearing. “What? You are coming to me?” care of him. he asked to make sure that he's not imag- ining. “Yes,” the caller answers calmly, “I A SURPRISE VISIT want to meet you.” Less than 24 hours later, the phone in When Meir heard the ‘click’ on the Meir’s office rang. When the caller iden- other end, he thought to himself, “there tified himself Meir was astonished, al- is no way that it was in jest”. “For com- most falling from his office chair. He can parison sakes”, he told me, “it’s as if the barely believe it - the CEO of a major RABBI LEVI GURKOW THE SHLIACH IN OCEANSIDE. airline which you purchased a ticket truck selling company, which provides from, would come visit you in your

SIVAN 5774 | 25

home.” with customers. Afterwards, the Jewish have an easy day. I was suddenly inspired Meir’s home stirred in excitement. His CEO focused on various problems that by a “push”. I decided I had to help a Jew astonished sons were already making may come up in this kind of business with his livelihood, and, going over the preparations for the planned celebration with different companies and commer- list of names, randomly chose you.” and reception for their esteemed guest. cial entities. Meir suddenly realized that THE SECOND REQUEST The man arrived, and all those present the man speaks exactly of the problem Meir’s next step, besides for imple- greeted him politely. Everyone is eagerly which he was suffering from, and offered menting the guidelines of the experi- awaiting some sort of explanation for him a magic solution that can solve the enced CEO, was to dial my cell phone this sudden visit. whole problem with a wave. He was be- number and share this miraculous occur- “Listen,” begins the man, “I will tell side himself with awe. rence. “Not even a day has passed since I you what is behind the visit.” The CEO casually concluded his re- prayed at the Ohel and I already got a marks by saying that an inner impulse URGE FROM ABOVE response,” he said excitedly. urged him to come out and share this “Today, I decided to take a break from But this story still hasn’t ended. Meir information for the benefit of someone. my busy schedule and browse through remembers the additional lines he added “This ‘impulse’”, he said, “sent me to the list of my customers. I did this as part at the end of his pan, the lines that were contribute to the training of someone of a common practice to improve busi- repeated in every letter to the Rebbe in who must have needed it.” ness and customer relations, and there’s which he requested and begged for the He did not know how right he was. nothing very unusual with that. Then Jewishness of his children and their de- Meir’s shocked wife recovered first. however, I noticed your name and the scendants. She was always more skeptical than her fact that you are a relatively new client. A short while after, I met with Meir husband regarding Tzadikim and spiritu- “This is my neighborhood, I grew up and his family in their office. One of the ality. She turned to the guest and insist- here” the man continued. “I knew you sons turned to me and asked to say a few ently asked him: “Tell me, who sent you were Jewish, because I realized the name words. His bewildered face indicated that to us? Was this a conspiracy concocted of your company, ‘Moe’s Trucking’ is something very sensitive was lying on his by the crook from UPS or perhaps the from the Jewish name Moses, and I de- conscience. Lubavitcher Rebbe? This is all quite un- cided I would like to meet you.” “Recently,” he said, “I feel bad for my believable”… After the strange background sur- intention to marry a gentile. Somehow it “I have no idea what you’re talking rounding the visit became somewhat bothers me - I do not know why - and about, I do not know the man from clear, the man moved on to talking busi- frankly, I have never had any problem UPS,” the visitor replied calmly, “but the ness. “I know things are tough in busi- with Gentiles or qualms about marrying Lubavitcher Rebbe I actually do know. ness right now,” he says. “If I may, allow one, until now.” I've prayed at his grave a few times, and I me to give you some advice that will ben- His father, Meir, was astonished. Here also recognize him from his picture efit you in the field.” - even the last request has been an- hanging here in your home.” Meir listened to the man in silence, as swered. “Actually,” he admitted, “I got up this he began to lay out advice for him from To date, Meir’s older son is married to morning and asked G-d that I should his experience over the years in dealing a Jewish girl. 

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”עד מתי?!“ A Child’s Cry

rom the onset of Chassidus the Geulah would be here with our final dren’s rallies, the Rebbe emphasized the being revealed, one objective touches of avoda. meaning of “now” and explained the F stood at its forefront: the com- Interestingly, the Rebbe also imparted significance of the need for Moshiach ing of Moshiach. this message to the secular and even non- now, even drawing lessons from the let- This notion was quite evident through- Jewish world, and in a way they could ters of the word.4 The Rebbe himself out the generations, beginning with the relate to it as well. When asked by a would begin the Nigun of “We want well-known letter of the Baal Shem Tov group of college students in 5723 if Moshiach now” and fiercely encouraged in which he quoted Moshiach as saying that he will arrive when the Ma’ayonos יפוצו מעיינותיך – HaChassidus spread forth .חוצה More clearly than anywhere else, the EVIDENTLY, WE HAVE YET TO Rebbe lays out this concept in great detail in “Kuntres Inyona Shel Toras HaChassi- SUCCESSFULLY DEMAND THE GEULAH dus.” Chassidus and Moshiach are one AND FINALLY BRING MOSHIACH. and the same: the innermost chayus eloki of all the worlds – “Yechidah”. When Moshiach comes, this chayus will be in a revealed state, thereby bringing all the worlds to their utmost perfection,1 finally Moshiach would arrive within the com- the singing on numerous occasions. fulfilling the very purpose for which they ing fifty years, the Rebbe responded: When people tried to temper the grow- were created. “Much sooner. Don't postpone it for so ing urgency, the Rebbe responded: “A Although this held true with all the long.” The Rebbe then gave a detailed Yid and galus are two incompatible op- generations of Chassidus, our generation explanation why the belief in Moshiach is posites,” and expressed shock and pain especially stands out in this regard. Im- logically plausible.2 that a Yid could speak in such a manner.5 mediately at the dawn of Dor Hashvi’i, Time and again, the Rebbe stressed the MOSHIACH NOW! with the acceptance of the nesius, the need for Yidden to cry out to Hashem As the years went on, Moshiach be- Rebbe notified us that it would be our and demand for the end of galus—“Ad came a matter of urgency. generation that would actually complete mosai?” When founding Tzivos Hashem for the task and see the coming of Moshiach. The Rebbe himself pointed out the Jewish children in 5741, the Rebbe called With each passing year, the Rebbe growing passion for Moshiach as the to “unite all Jewish children by the slogan spoke about the coming of Moshiach years ensued. In an interesting sicha on of ‘We want Moshiach now’.”3 Often, more and more as an imminent reality the last night of Chol Hamoed Pesach, during sichos at farbrengens and chil- and taught Chassidim to understand that 5748, the Rebbe revealed that, “I never

SIVAN 5774 | 27

heard this from my father [that we are to If only this cry would be a true, heartfelt the geulah and finally bring Moshiach. demand Moshiach’s coming and cry Ad plea (“mit an emmes”) Moshiach would As Gimmel Tammuz approaches mosai], and certainly not from my grand- have come already.” again, the need for Moshiach is ever father. Even from myself, I never heard In the last Ma’amor distributed by the greater to us as Chassidim, just as it is to such talk before I arrived here in the Rebbe before Chof-Zayin Adar, “Ve’Ata the whole of the Jewish people. United States…”6 Te’tzaveh”, this idea is also stressed at To quote a letter written by the Rebbe Addressing the reason for this phe- greater length. in this regard shortly after the Frierdiker nomenon, the Rebbe delivered a lengthy The Rebbe speaks there of a time when Rebbe’s histalkus: sicha at the farbrengen of Purim, 5747, explaining why specifically in recent years the talk about Moshiach had become increasingly frequent. The Rebbe explained that the time for Moshiach’s arrival is long overdue. “The WE ARE SO BOTHERED BY THE FACT and THAT WE FIND OURSELVES IN GALUS ”כלו כל הקצין“ Gemora already stated many centuries have already passed since then. The Frierdiker Rebbe printed a DEVOID OF GILUY ELOKUS, TO THE predicted time for Moshiach’s arrival decades ago, yet we still find ourselves in EXTENT THAT WE ARE SHAKEN TO THE אינגאנצן צוטרייסלט – galus. With that being said, the question CORE is: why are we still here? How is it possible that Moshiach still hasn’t come? All this leaves us with the conclusion that each and every one must do all they can to bring Moshiach; hence the need to "...נא ונא להשתדל הוא וכל חבורתו תי' stress the importance of the subject time Yidden enjoy a good life in galus, free of בכבוש של החוצה, ואם חסר לפי שעה די מוט -and again.”7 physical and spiritual disturbances. Nev ע"ז יתבוננו אז דאס האלט אפ די גאולה, ertheless, we are so bothered by the fact SHAKEN TO THE CORE תחה"מ און צו זעהן זיך מיטן רבי'ן דעם שווער that we find ourselves ingalus devoid of On 28 Nissan, 5751, the Rebbe’s cry for מיטן רבי'ן זיין פאטער וכו' וכו' האומנם ביינקט giluy Elokus, to the extent that we are זיך אייך ניט? והיש השתדלות שתקשה Moshiach turned to more a heartrending .”אינגאנצן צוטרייסלט“ – shaken to the core בעיניהם ובלבד שיגיעו לזה?" -call to us, his Chassidim. Firstly, the Reb The Rebbe wished to impart this sense be was pained that after all that had been …“You and your entire group should of yearning for Moshiach to each and done in this regard, Moshiach still hadn’t please attempt to influence the outside every one of us, so that we as well feel the arrived. Moreover, the Rebbe was dis- world [with Chassidus]. If you still lack need for the geulah and truly demand it tressed that so many people still went the courage to do so, contemplate the in desperation. about their daily lives apathetically, with- fact that this is holding back the geulah out caring enough to sincerely cry for the THE CRY TODAY and techiyas hameisim, and geulah. The message the Rebbe gave us must [consequently] the ability to see the Reb- “True; everyone says ‘Ad Mosai’, but resonate today more than ever. Evident- be, my father-in-law, as well as his fa- that’s only because they’re told to do so. ly, we have yet to successfully demand ther… Do you not long after [seeing

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him]? Could anything be perceived as too difficult to do in order to reach that state?”8 With all of us intensifying our yearning for Moshiach, we will indeed bring the geulah ho’amitis ve’hashleima and be reunited with the Rebbe, and in the Reb- be’s words: “May Hashem help that the [Frierdiker] Rebbe will come back in a guf and lead us out of galus! True, the normal order of things is that techiyas hameisim will only be after the coming of Moshiach, but certain select individuals (“Yechidei segula”) will be able to arise earlier. Beginning with my father-in-law, the Rebbe: he will come back in a guf (and there is no practical difference how—whether through the door, the window, or the roof), and he will gather all the Jewish people and announce: “It’s time to leave the galus! Let us go to Er- etz Hakodesh!”9  ______

1. Inyona Shel Toras HaChassidus, end of se’if hey. See also footnote 43: the Rabbeim of each generation who teach and reveal Chassidus are the “Yechidah” of the Neshoma of the entire Jewish people. 2. See full transcript in Derher Magazine, Teves, 5774 p. 36. 3. Introduction to HaYom Yom – Shalsheles Haya- chas. 4. See for example Sichas Yud Gimmel Nissan, 5747. 5. Chof-daled Teves, 5742; Hisvaaduyos 5742 vol. 2 p. 692. 6. Hisvaaduyos 5748 vol. 3 p. 118. 7. Hisvaaduyos 5747 vol. 2 p. 612; 620. See also Derher Magazine, Adar II, 5774 p. 6. 8. Igros Kodesh vol. 4 p. 120. See also the Rebbe’s sicha quoted at the beginning of this magazine in “Not on our watch”. 9. Sichas Shavuos, 5710 (Toras Menachem Vol. 1 CREDITS: JEM/THE LIVING ARCHIVE pg. 100)

SIVAN 5774 | 29 אגרות קודש

“Klal Yisroel

is Not Alone”

This letter, written in 1949 to the renowned Chossid Reb Shlomo Chaim Kesselman, implores him not to forget the primary focus and obligation of all Chassidim wherever they are: bringing Yidden closer to the Rebbe. The Rebbe explains the importance of this, and offers a simple way of going about doing it. Originally written in Lashon Kodesh, this letter has been freely translated into English for the beneﬁt of our readership.

B”H, 15 Shvat, 5709 rent a store and an apartment in different parts of the city, and Shalom U’bracha: she wrote to the Rebbe asking him what she should do. This I am writing now not to any specific person, for who am I to woman never saw the Rebbe; she knows that the Rebbe never determine who is responsible for this issue? My words are di- visited her city or even her country. She is not a chossid nor does rected to all the members of your community, who are all un- she seem to be from a family of Chassidim. Yet, upon hearing doubtedly capable of fulfilling their main mission of spreading the above-mentioned young man’s genuine and heartfelt words: the wellsprings of the Baal Shem Tov and the Alter Rebbe to all “There is a Rebbe for the JewishPeople, and he is not confined the people of France. The only spring from which flow the wa- to the laws of nature. Anyone who desires success – whether in ters of the Baal Shem Tov and the Alter Rebbe is the Rebbe, my business matters, household affairs, etc. -- should not lift his father-in-law shlit”a. By connecting to this spring – a connection hands to do anything, without asking the Rebbe’s advice.” Seeing in both body (through money that one could have otherwise the young man’s honesty – for words of truth are recognizable - used for his personal needs) and soul -- ordinary water becomes she requested to write to the Rebbe about the above mentioned ‘mayim chayim’ [suitable for a mikvah]. This is a clear law ac- issue. As a direct result of this, she is now a supporter of the cording to the Torah, which governs nature, literally and in eve- Rebbe, she is coming closer to Yiddiskeit, and eventually she will ry aspect. surely keep Kashrus and Taharas Hamishpocho. All this is due There is a young man, a refugee, he can’t daven ba’avoda, nor to the efforts of one young simple man, who views what he is is he a Maskil or Oved, he doesn’t have a beard, etc. etc. and he doing not as mesiras nefesh, but as a plainly obvious responsibil- never learned in any yeshiva, let alone Tomchei Temimim. He ity. was forced to flee to a faraway country, distant both physically Now I ask you: it is clear to you based on everything that you and in matters of Yiddishkeit. After he was there for just a short have seen, that the Rebbe’s words and brochos are true; your time, letters from both men and women began arriving for the nefesh habehamis even agrees. This is not merely theoretical or Rebbe. For example: a businesswoman received a few offers to abstract knowledge; rather, your experience, and the experience

30 | A CHASSIDISHER DERHER

תמים of others, has shown that when one listened to the Rebbe it was good, and when one didn’t listen, he had it bad. Therefore, just ביחידות as you wouldn’t hesitate to recommend a good doctor to anyone who needs it, so too, when you see someone who is confused or confronting a major life decision, you should tell him: the Jewish “Tomim BiYechidus” is dedicated to people have not been forsaken, G-d forbid; there is someone you documenting the experience of can ask! Furthermore, you shouldn’t wait until your acquaint- bochurim who had the zchus of having ance approaches you to ask about the Rebbe; he probably doesn’t a personal Yechidus with the Rebbe. even know what a Rebbe is! Rather, you should explain to him that he shouldn’t rely on his own understanding, nor should he The following Yechidus was told over by rely on the shadchan or the doctor or the broker. There is no R' Shlome Zarchi. guarantee if any of those approaches will work, but there is a clear and definite way to resolve his questions [i.e. by asking the Rabbi Leibel Kaplan A”H, the Shliach Rebbe]. And chazal say: “words that come from the heart, enter Roshi to Tzfas, Eretz Yisroel, once went the heart.” into Yechidus to ask the Rebbe's advice It is clear, that someone who believes with complete faith – a about a particular habit of his. faith which directs his entire being – that the outlook and bra- chos of a certain individual [i.e. the Rebbe] governs everything, The year was around 5722, and the and knows that his friend must make an important decision in younger bochurim learnt in Yeshiva by any area in life, even a life threatening issue; out of basic decen- Bedford and Dean. Supper was cy, ahavas yisroel, pikuach nefesh, etc. if there is even the slight- around 7:30 and Seder Chassidus was est chance that that his friend will listen to him, he would chase taught by R’ Yoel Kahn until 9:00pm. By after him and tell him: “have mercy on yourself, your family, and all that is yours! Don’t rely on your own judgement! Learn Chas- the time the bochurim would return sidus, connect with the Rebbe, do as he says, and then you will home to Crown Heights proper, it was succeed!” usually quite late, almost 10:00pm. The Alter Rebbe’s promise is well known: “any good thing Chassidim do will be successful.” R’ Leibel told the Rebbe that although at You encounter hundreds, if not thousands, of Yidden in Paris, the time when he returned home he was and speak will them about all kinds of topics. How many of still satisfied with the supper he had these thousands have asked the Rebbe about an operation or a eaten in Bedford and Dean, he still shidduch, or requested a brocho for Rosh Hashono and so forth? found it difficult ‘tzu zich ainhalten’ If you would only tell them who the Lubavitcher Rebbe is – just from checking the refrigerator and pot tell them, even without explaining it -- and if the next time you to see what his mother had made for meet him you tell him a sicha of the Rebbe, and the next time you tell him some of the Rebbe’s directives, then many people, supper that night. True he wouldn’t eat, their children, and their children’s children for all eternity, yet he still wanted to see what he had would be connected to the tree of life, add light in their homes, missed... נעשים אנשי .and happily support the Rebbe and all his mosdos The Rebbe responded: ‘If you’ll think to …משה With Blessing, yourself that in coming years you will be The Rebbe’s Signature  a Rov, a Manhig, of an entire city, then (Igros Kodesh, vol. 3 p. 52) does this ‘past zich’? This surely will help you to give up this habit…’

SIVANIYAR 5774 | 31 32 | A CHASSIDISHER DERHER TRANSFORMING TRAGEDY In the aftermath of a calamity the Rebbe encourages through sending Shluchim

"אחד מאופני ההשתתפות הוא, שיסעו עשרה או אחד-עשר, באי-כח לארץ ישראל, בעיקר יהיו בכפר-חב"ד ובישיבת תומכי-תמימים בלוד, הקשורה עם הכפר, וגם לבקר על המקומות הקדושים , ואח"כ בבואם אי"ה חזרה, יביאו עמהם את "אוירא דארץ ישראל' בחוץ-לארץ, ולהמשיך זאת למטה מעשרה טפחים, וכן גם שם יביא הדבר תוספת הן בישיבה והן בכל הסביבה." (התוועדות חג השבועות תשט"ז)

SIVAN 5774 | 33 “8:00 in the evening, on the second of Iyar 5716, fifty students filled the Beis Medrash of ‘Beit Sefer L’melacha’ in Kfar Chabad, Davening Ma’ariv. Knocks on the door of the Shul were heard, when it was suddenly opened. Two terrorists stood on the doorstep and began firing at the the Talmidim. The teacher and a number of the students were hit by many bullets. The casualties were great and took place instantly…

As we stand days after the calamity, we are unsure what will be the future of the Beit Sefer L’melacha, for only a few students have returned. The Yeshiva in Lod is experiencing the same problem; the students are not returning. Seventeen parents came to collect their children, explaining that it was in order for them to relax, and they would return shortly. However, today we are only left with 19 Talmidim.

מה נאמר ומה נדבר, אין אנו יודעים מה לעשות. מחכים אנו להוראות מכ"ק אדמו"ר שליט"א. “What can we say, what can be spoken, we don’t know what to do. We wait for direction from the Rebbe Shlit”a.”

These heartrending lines, penned by Reb Efroyim Wolf from Eretz Yisroel to Reb Binyomin Gorodetzky, convey the forlorn feeling of the Chassidim in Eretz Yisroel in the days after the shooting. The Rebbe’s response was soon in coming. Letters of encouragement arrived in Kfar Chabad, breathing fresh air to the weary Chassidim. The energy reached its peak when a group of twelve Shluchim arrived in Eretz Yisroel, spreading hope and strengthening Hiskashrus. In preparation for this article, extensive research was conducted, including interviews with every one of the Shluchim that were sent on this historic mission. We are very thankful to them for their assistance in this initiative.

34 | A CHASSIDISHER DERHER ROSH CHODESH IYAR 5716 changed which passed away a few days later. and parents: the face of Kfar Chabad forever. Talmi- The Chassidim of Kfar Chabad, many “I strongly hope that with the help of dim of a vocational school established by of whom had escaped the horrors of Eu- Hashem who guards with a wise eye and the Rebbe just two years earlier - Beit rope just a decade earlier, were shattered. oversees with hashgocha protis, you will Sefer L’melacha, gathered in their Beis Parents of the students traveled to Kfar overcome every obstacle, strengthen both Hamedrash to daven Ma’ariv, when dis- Chabad, to take their children home. The personal and communal affairs, and ex- aster struck. A group of terrorists at- safety of their children was at stake, they pand all the organizations in quantity tacked the school, shooting from the felt, and they no longer wanted their and quality. With peace of mind may the doorway. children to remain in the Beit Sefer study of our Torah, Toras chayim, divrei In a matter of minutes they were fin- L’melocha. Elokim chayim be strengthened and ished, and made their escape. Screams of A spirit of dejection spread amongst greatened, as well as the fulfillment of its terror filled the area, which had also been the Chassidim. Some proposed that the Mitzvos, with joy – v’chai bahem. plunged in darkness because the power fledgling village be disbanded. It was “From Kfar Chabad, the wellsprings of had mysteriously gone out. By the light simply too dangerous! Chassidus and the deeds of Rabboseinu of a match one of the teachers Reb Meir The only comfort was the firm messag- Nessieinu Hakdoshim should be spread Friedman, gazed at the dreadful sight in es of the Rebbe which came through let- until they reach chutza, in order to bring front of him. ters and telegrams in the days following. all of Bnei Yisroel closer to our father in While most of the students had es- Immediately following the shiva1 the heaven – b’chesed ub’rachamim – and to caped through the windows, those closest following message from the Rebbe ar- speedily bring the complete Geulah to the door were not so fortunate. Four rived: through Moshiach Tzidkeinu. of the students and their teacher Hato- “To each of Anash, residents of Kfar “I take part in their tefilos and fasting, mim Simcha Zilbershtom lay on the Chabad, the organizations there, and in and I am certain that with Hashem’s help floor, no longer amongst the living. A particular Beit Sefer L’melacha, and its that soon in their true, complete, internal number of others were wounded, one of students, teachers, principals, activists joy, b’gashmiyus ub’ruchniyus gam

REB MEIR FRIEDMAN, ONE OF THE TEACHERS IN BEIT THE BUILDING THAT HOUSED THE BEIT SEFER L’MELOCHA IN 5716. SEFER L’MELOCHA, AT THE SCENE OF THE ATTACK JUST A FEW DAYS LATER.

SIVAN 5774 | 35 GLOBAL SHLICHUS A novel idea, of proportions not previ- ously envisioned by Chassidim, was in- troduced by the Rebbe at the Farbrengen of Shavuos 5716. Here is a small excerpt from that Farbrengen: “…Those which find themselves outside Eretz Yisroel should also participate in strengthening Kfar Chabad… Not only financially, but also with their body and soul. One way to accomplish this is by elev- en or twelve representatives traveling to Eretz Yisroel. They should mainly spend FOUR OF THE SHLUCHIM POSED FOR A PICTURE MANY YEARS LATER. RIGHT TO LEFT: RABBI SHMUEL FOGELMAN, time in Kfar Chabad and the Yeshivas RABBI DOVID SCHOCHET, RABBI YEHUDA KRINSKY, AND RABBI RABBI FAIVEL RIMLER. Tomchei Temimim in Lod… And they should also visit the holy sites… This will yochad.” bring a new energy to the Yeshiva and in Many other letters and telegrams fol- the whole area.” lowed this one, giving solace and encour- During the farbrengen, the Rebbe ex- agement to the Anash of Eretz Hakodesh. plained that every Chossid had an obliga- YAD HACHAMISHA tion to help Kfar Chabad at this time, in In the winter before the attack, the addition to those that were traveling in Rebbe had already encouraged an expan- person. In continuation to this the Rebbe sion of the Beit Sefer L’melocha. Follow- surprised the Chassidim by delivering A spirit of ing the attack, the Rebbe urged that the two maamorim, explaining that the sec- expansion materialize quickly. Hastily, a ond one was his participation in helping dejection spread new division dedicated to teaching the Kfar Chabad! skill of printing was opened, and plans The next day the bochurim in 770 be- amongst the were drawn up for a new building. held a new sign hanging in the hallway At the siyum hashloshim of the slain leading to Zal, signed by the Mazkirus. Chassidim. Some talmidim, a groundbreaking was held for The sign announced that in connection the expansion. The Chief Rabbis, distin- with the Rebbe’s announcement at the proposed that the guished Rabbonim, politicians, commu- Farbrengen the day before, any bochurim nity leaders joined by an enormous that would like to take part in this trip ﬂedgling village be crowd took part in the event. should be in contact with Mazkirus, and The mourning families were honored should ensure that their passport would disbanded. It was during the groundbreaking, including allow them to travel to Eretz Yisroel and the mother of hatomim Simcha Zilber- that their parents had agreed to their simply too strom. Days later, in a letter from the going. Rebbe to her dated Yud Beis Sivan, the Many bochurim quickly made the nec- dangerous! Rebbe expressed pleasure that she had essary inquiries to find out whether they taken part in the ceremony, explaining would be able to travel, and then regis- that through it they had achieved an eter- tered with the Mazkirus. nal victory against death. By establishing Rabbi Yosef Rosenfeld recalls: an organization in their memory that “When I saw the sign, my initial would bring spiritual growth to future thoughts were, that I would much rather generations, the neshamos of those who remain in 770 for the summer and learn. had been killed would be connected to an Taking trips abroad were not something eternal legacy.2 I was excited about. Being that my birthday was on 15 Sivan, I had a Yechidus

36 | A CHASSIDISHER DERHER with the Rebbe just days after the Shlich- Dov Ber Shemtov, “that the Rebbe men- extra time learning in the Shul. us was announced. The Rebbe asked me tioned that the Shluchim were chosen Through learning your shiurim in if I had submitted my name to the while at the Ohel of the Frierdiker Reb- Nigla and Chassidus there, people mazkirus, to which I replied that I had- be.” will realize that this is the place n’t. To my surprise, the Rebbe then in- where you can be reached. On Shab- OUTLINING THE MISSION structed me to join the list of bochurim bos however, you should only learn “That night we were privileged for a who were registered for the Shluchim! Chassidus, as is the practice in Eretz unique Yechidus”, exclaimed Rabbi Sha- Naturally, I made sure to do so immedi- Yisroel. lom Ber Butman, “and we received a ately following the Yechidus.” collection of horaos from the Rebbe per-  When encountering speaking en- In a similar sequence of events, Rabbi taining to all aspects of the trip. To men- gagements, do not shy away or be Shlomo Kirsh, a bochur who traveled tion a few of them: reserved. In each place, speak some from South Africa to New York to learn words of Nigla and some of Chassi-  You will be stopping in five coun- in 770 had a Yechidus then in connection dus. It would be ideal to set up one tries on the way to Eretz Yisroel – with his birthday. Reb Shlomo fondly primary speaker for Nigla and one England; Belgium; France; Switzer- relates how the Rebbe personally in- for Chassidus. land and Italy. In each one you structed him to join the group of should make a point of visiting the  Your main base should be in Kfar Shluchim during that Yechidus. mekomos hatorah and particularly Chabad and to visit the other Lubav- All the bochurim who had registered the Lubavitch stronghold in that itcher Yeshivos. Be in touch with the waited anxiously, in anticipation of the area. Chassidim of Eretz Yisroel in re- outcome. gards to visiting the other Yeshivos. Rabbi Yehuda Krinsky recalls how they  From today forward until you return were informed about their Shlichus. On here, establish a seder Chassidus  Make sure to be well versed in the the morning of Gimmel Tammuz, nine before Davening and a seder nigla halachos pertaining to Erez Yisroel, bochurim were summoned to the office afterward. Each day another person so that whenever a quandary should of Rabbi Hodakov, and were informed should give a shiur, and everyone arise, you will know clearly how to that they were chosen to be the Rebbe’s else should join in discussing what- behave. Shluchim on this unique mission. ever is being learned. The topics that  Pay special attention that your cloth- Momentum increased throughout the you learn can be different each day, ing look proper for someone in that day, especially when they found out that as long as it is organized in advance stature. they would be having a Yechidus as a so everyone knows what to expect. The Rebbe ended off by confirming group that night.  When in Kfar Chabad, spend your that we had permission from our parents “We later heard,” relates Rabbi Shalom to participate and with a brocha that the

THE QUESTIONS THE SHLUCHIM SUBMITTED TO THE REBBE REGARDING THE HALACHOS OF ERETZ YISROEL. SEE ARTICLE FOR TRANSLATION OF THE REBBE’S ANSWER.

SIVAN 5774 | 37 Anash community leaders at the stops along their trip, it became clear that the Rebbe desired representatives from all regions of the world. Nine of the Shluchim were talmidim of Yeshivas Tomchei Temimim Hamerkozis in 770, one from the Lubavitch Yeshiva in Brunoy, France, and one bochur from Australia met up with the rest of the group, when they arrived in Eretz Yis- roel. The final Shliach to be chosen was Reb Zusha Posner, who was learning in Ye- shivas Tomchei Temimim Lubavitch in Montreal. Reb Zusha relates the unique events that led to him being chosen as a Shliach: “A day before Yud Beis Tammuz, I felt a strong urge to be at the Rebbe’s farbrengen that would be held the next day. Procuring a ticket at that point was very difficult, let alone receivingreshus from THE REBBE’S HAGAHOS ARE SEEN ON A DRAFT OF A SIGN THAT WAS LATER DISPLAYED IN 770, INVITING THE TALMI- Hanhola. Luckily, another bochur who DIM TO SIGN UP FOR THE SHLICHUS. had made all the necessary arrangements to travel to New York the following day, was unable to fly at the last minute because of problems with his legal papers. “After strenuous efforts, I bought his ticket, received reshus and was soon off to New York. “While in New York, I heard about the unfolding saga of the Shlichus to Eretz Yisroel. My father who deeply desired that I be part of this Shlichus, wrote to the Rebbe, begging that I be able to join. “To our delight, the Rebbe agreed, with the stipulation that all my legal papers were in order and that a Doctor would agree that I was healthy enough for this trip. A LIST CONTAINING THE DIVISION OF RESPONSIBILITIES AMONGST THE SHLUCHIM . “Hastily I went to visit Dr. Seligson, trip be with Hatzlocha Rabo. The Rebbe who assured me a clean bill of health, so בכהנ"ל יש מנהג שנקבע מכבר ע"י רבני concluded that this will accomplish great long as I eat butter to strengthen my אנ"ש אשר באה"ק. ויבררוהו וכן יעשו. things for yourselves as well, perhaps bones. Arranging the necessary legal even more than schar.” Regarding all that you mentioned, the documentation was not as simple; it Shortly after the Yechidus, Rabbi Rabbonim of Anash in Eretz Hakodesh would take over a week to receive the Faivel Rimler submitted a list of ques- have already established a minhag. You required papers. tions regarding some of the halachic re- should verify [what it is] and behave as “Thus, instead of traveling together quirements they would encounter in such. with the Shluchim, I flew on my own as Eretz Yisroel. The following was the Reb- FROM NINE TO TWELVE soon as I was able to, and therefore met be’s response: In the letters from the Rebbe to the

38 | A CHASSIDISHER DERHER SOME OF THE SHLUCHIM POSE IN FRONT OF THE PLANE, JUST AFTER ARRIVING IN ERETZ YISROEL. FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: RABBI ZUSHE POSNER, RABBI SHALOM DOVBER BUTMAN, RABBI SHALOM DOVBER SHEMTOV, RABBI DOVID SCHOCHET, RABBI YOSEF ROSENFELD, RABBI SHOLOM EIDELMAN, RABBI FAIVEL RIMLER RABBI SHLOMO KIRSH.

them when they were in Italy.” TAKE OFF that filled the air as they embarked on In a letter to Reb Nissan Nemanov At the farbrengen on the Shabbos be- their Shlichus. dated 19 Tammuz 5716, the Rebbe re- fore they were to depart, the Rebbe ad- They spent the hours in flight very quests him to choose a seasoned talmid dressed the upcoming trip and taught the carefully, and learned from the new Tan- to join the delegation headed to Eretz niggun of Asader Lesudasa. Later on, the ya’s they had just received from the Reb- Yisroel. Shluchim taught the niggun numerous be. The final group of Shluchim amounted times throughout the trip. As soon as their flight departed, the to a total of 12 and included the follow- Rabbi Shmuel Fogelman remembers Mazkirus sent a telegram to the Anash in ing individuals: clearly the day they set out: England: Representatives from USA – Rabbi “On the morning of 18 Tammuz, we “The Shluchim have set out by plane Avraham Korf; Rabbi Dovid Shochat; were called into the Rebbe’s room one on Wednesday 18 Tammuz at 6:00 pm Rabbi Yehuda Krinsky; Rabbi Yosef last time before the trip. While there, the with El-Al flight number 204. They will Rosenfeld; Rabbi Faivel Rimler; Rabbi Rebbe presented each of us with a pocket be arriving tomorrow in London at 3:00 Shalom Dovber Shemtov; Rabbi Shalom Siddur and Tanya that the Rebbe had in the afternoon. The Shluchim will re- Dovber Butman; Rabbi Shlomo Kirsh asked to be published in connection with main in England until the coming Tues- and Rabbi Shmuel Fogelman. our trip. To me the Rebbe gave an extra day, and will visit London and Manches- Representative from Canada- Rabbi Tanya to give to Reb Nissan Nemanov, ter. Surely, you will do whatever is neces- Zusha Posner. the Mashpiya in Brunoy, France.” sary in order to help the Shluchim fulfill Representative from Europe – Rabbi The Shluchim were seen off by Rabbi their Shlichus in the best possible way.” Sholom Eidelman. Hodakov, Rabbi Nissan Mindel and a THE FIRST STOP Representative from Australia – Rabbi number of others, and stopped to pose The excitement the Chassidim in Eng- Shraga Herzog. for a picture in front of the airplane. To land experienced with the arrival of the this very day, the Shluchim distinctly Shluchim is vividly expressed in a letter recall the sense of pride and excitement

SIVAN 5774 | 39 written by Reb Meir Gurkov to the Reb- brengen continued until Mincha. They First they traveled to Belgium, visiting be, describing the visit: sang many songs and everyone danced the Chassidim and Torah communities “All of Anash traveled to the airport to together.” in Brussels and Antwerp. They continued greet our honored guests at the airport. The Shluchim split up into a number on to France, where they again split into At 6:30 we all welcomed the Shluchim of groups in order to visit a number of a number of groups. Rabbi Shalom Ber with love and affection. Soon after arriv- other cities in England. The smaller Butman was the only one who spoke a bit ing Hatomim Reb Shalom Dov Ber groups traveled to Manchester, Sunder- of French and spoke often throughout Shemtov delivered a Maamer which they land, and Gateshead, spending a large their visit. Some of the Shluchim went to had just heard from the Rebbe… A com- amount of time at the Yeshivos in each visit the Yeshiva in Brunoy, where a plete Kabolas Ponim was held the next place. Kabolas Ponim was held in their honor. day, during which Hatmimim Reb Rabbi Avrohom Korf was responsible The trip continued from France to Shmuel Fogelman and Reb Yehuda Krin- for nigla, and tells over his memories Switzerland, and from Switzerland to sky addressed the crowd. from these encounters: Italy. “We arranged that they should speak “The Yeshivos we visited were geared In each of these stops, they spoke be- in four shuls in the area, and their drash- toward litvishe bochurim. The bochurim fore huge crowds of Chassidim and Yid- os were received with tremendous tried to ‘stump’ us with asking difficult den of all backgrounds. For the residents Hatzlocha, and leaving a powerful effect questions on a large range of subjects. of these countries, the Shluchim brought on the listeners. Those that heard them They were so impressed with the clarity a powerful energy with them. They lis- could not stop praising them. of thought they received in return, that tened attentively to the sichos and “After Seudas Shabbos on Shabbos their attitude changed completely.” maamorim the Shluchim taught, and afternoon, a farbrengen was held in the Later on, one of these non-Lubavitch reveled in the atmosphere of their far- Chabad shul. Many community mem- Yeshivos insisted on escorting the brengens. This was a fresh regards from bers and Yeshiva bochurim from all fac- Shluchim to the airport, bringing the Rebbe! tions attended the farbrengen. Reb Yehu- busloads of bochurim to the airport. The Shluchim also made sure to meet da Krinsky and Reb Dovid Shochet with community leaders and Rabbonim FROM LAND TO LAND spoke, as did the other Shluchim. in each place. The Shluchim impressed In an itinerary dictated clearly by the “It was a great pleasure to behold the these figures greatly, and listened raptly Rebbe and detailed through the sight and to hear them relate gems from to the teachings of the Rebbe they Mazkirus, the Shluchim set out to their the Sichos of the Rebbe Shlit”a. The far- brought. next destinations. Rabbi Yehuda Krinsky served as mazkir of the group and kept a detailed diary of everything that took place and sent these to the Rebbe. In a letter to Rabbi Hodakov written on Beis Av from Zurich, Switzerland, Rabbi Krinsky explains why they had been delayed in sending updates: “My sincerest apologies on the lack of updates, because writing is very time- consuming and the time is very limited. Especially because of the many journeys in the last two weeks. Almost each day we travel to another city! In each place we visit the mekomos haTorah, and the Rabbonim…” When departing from Italy to Eretz Yisroel, they were delayed on the way to the airport. They arrived at the airplane just a few minutes before the flight. De- THE CHASSIDIM OF ERETZ YISROEL GREET THE SHLUCHIM AT THE AIRPORT. spite their lateness, the airline authorities held the plane for the large group, as

40 | A CHASSIDISHER DERHER would befit the Rebbe’s shluchim. to get the first glimpse of the Shluchim. Three venerable Chassidim – Reb Shaul UPLIFTED! Dov Zislin, Reb Pinye Althaus, and Reb One who didn’t witness the scene at Chanoch Glitzenstein were the only ones the airport on Friday, Hei Av at seven in who were permitted to stand on the run- the morning, has missed an incredible away and be the first to greet the sight. Shluchim.4 The field near the tarmac was covered The passengers began to deplane, and in a sea of people, with barely an inch to finally the Shluchim emerged. Bruchim move. Talmidim of every Lubavitch Ye- Haboim emitted from everyone’s lips, shiva in Eretz Yisroel, Anash, men, wom- and joyous singing and dancing broke en and children, young and old have out. The Rebbe’s Shluchim have arrived – gathered together. Buses unload their truly “zera beirach havaye!” “Darkecho passengers and turn back to bring still Elokeinu…” the niggun the Rebbe had more people. taught just the Tishrei before, was jubi- Suddenly the plane could be sighted! lantly sung, as the Shluchim were hoisted The crowds craned their necks as the upon the shoulders of the eager Chassi- plane finally landed, as everyone strove dim. Shalom Aleichem, a handshake, a

Honorable Visits

Although most of the first week was spent in Kfar Cha- the opinion of the Rebbe, who did understand the engi- bad, the Shluchim made a trip to Yerushalayim to visit neering of the boats. with Mr. Zalman Shazar, who was then serving as a lead- In conclusion, he asked us to visit him again when we ing member of the Knesset. While in Yerushayim they visit Yerushalayim next… also visited a number of other respected individuals. In his Next we visited Rabbi Herzog [the Ashkenazi Chief duch from that day, Rabbi Yehuda Krinsky described their Rabbi of Eretz Yisroel], whom was also being visited by visit: Rabbi Unterman [the Chief Rabbi of Tel Aviv], and Mr. “At 2:00 in the afternoon we traveled with Reb Pinye Goldman and Rabbi Wallgelenter from Detroit. After in- Althaus in taxis to Yerushalayim. At 3:30 we arrived at the troductions, Rabbi Herzog and Rabbi Unterman spoke in home of Rabbi Zevin, who was also hosting Rabbis Zelig glowing terms about the work of Chabad in America and and Yehuda Leib Slonim. in Eretz Yisroel. After sitting together for half an hour, we We conversed over there for twenty minutes and then davened Mincha in his house with a minyan. Rabbi Her- traveled together with them to visit Rabbi Nissim [the zog instructed the Chazzan Shalom Dovber Butman that Sephardic Chief Rabbi of Eretz Yisroel]. He greeted us he should say Kaddish with the words v’yatzmach pur- warmly and we spoke with him for half an hour. kanei [as is the Lubavitch Nusach] and that he should sing Reb Pinye reminded the Chief Rabbi that he supported it with the festive Yomtov niggun. the Rebbe regarding the question of traveling on Israeli Just after 6:00 we arrived at the house of Shazar. He boats on Shabbos [a topic of great debate between the received us and immediately asked about the welfare of Rabbonim of the time, and the Rebbe spearheaded a cam- the Rebbe Shlit”a. Rabbi Avrohom Chein soon entered the paign to publicize that it was forbiden]. He answered that room and sat with us. this was certainly the case, and that he had received letters We told a number of stories, and in middle Shazar men- and telegrams from the Rebbe on the matter. He contin- tioned that he had just received a letter from the Rebbe ued that although some Rabbonim [with the opposing asking that he assist us while we were in Eretz Yisroel...” opinion] had gone to see how the ships work, they have The Shluchim met with Shazar again just a day before no knowledge of what they were looking at. they were to leave Eretz Yisroel. They met him in his vaca- Furthermore, the one who was guiding them was not tion home in Haifa. He recounted his memories of the familiar with Torah, thus invalidating the credibility of his Frierdiker Rebbe and ask the Shluchim to give warm re- words. He could not understand how they could argue on gards to the Rebbe.

SIVAN 5774 | 41 THREE OF THE MANY DUCHOS THE SHUCHIM SENT TO THE REBBE DURING THEIR TRIP.

question, a hug, everyone present erupted yet again, it was the only way to the Rebbe in person! Even having the yearned to interact with the Shluchim. express their uncontrollable joy. Amidst Rebbe’s Sichos transported to Eretz Yis- Quite unexpected, a telegram from the joy and strong emotions, the Shluchim roel was very difficult. Sadly, this resulted Rebbe arrived at the airport just minutes were escorted to Kfar Chabad.” in a certain lack of passion in the after the Shluchim had arrived: Hiskashrus of Anash in Eretz Yisroel. SPIRITS INVIGORATED “Shluchim of Chabad-Lubavitch - May The delegation of Shluchim that ar- In order to fully appreciate the impact your visit to Eretz Yisroel be with peace rived in Eretz Yisroel, broke through the Shlichus had on the Chassidim in and Hatzlocha muflaga in fulfilling your these barriers. The precious atmosphere Eretz Yisroel, one must first realize the shlichus, which its true objective is to that existed around the Rebbe in 770 had situation that prevailed at that time. As spread the wellsprings of Chassidus to been transported to Eretz Yisroel. Rabbi Chanoch Glitzenstein explained: the outside. May we soon go to Geulah, “One must understand that there was SHABBOS HAGADOL and much regards to all Anash.” very little connection between the Chas- During the 28 days that the Shluchim “The excitement was so strong,” de- sidim in Eretz Yisroel and the Anash in were in Eretz Yisroel, they visited every scribed Rabbi Butman, “you could al- the United States of America. Travel Lubavitch Institution and community, most touch it. Even the airport personnel between was very sparse because travel refugee camps, addressed large events, and other guests, were swept into the was so expensive and the necessary pa- and visited the leaders and Rabbonim of simcha. The crowd grew silent, as my col- perwork was hard to obtain. Therefore Eretz Yisroel. Often a Kabolas Ponim was league Rabbi Yosef Rosenfeld arose to when they received the news that the held in the Lubavitcher Shul in the area give regards from the Rebbe, and set out Rebbe would be sending a group of they were visiting, following they would the objective of our Shlichus in Eretz Shluchim to Eretz Yisroel they were ec- break into small groups to visit each par- Yisroel. static.” ticular venue. Wherever they went, they Rabbi Leibel Zalmanov translated his Furthermore, it had only been six years confidently spoke about the Rebbes mis- passionate words from Yiddish into He- since the Rebbe had accepted the nesius, sion for this generation – to bring brew, so that everyone could understand. and few Chassidim from Eretz Yisroel Moshiach.5 When he finished speaking, dancing had heard the Rebbe’s voice, let alone see The limitations of space do not allow

42 | A CHASSIDISHER DERHER every detail of their trip to be document- ed here. Instead we present a collection of highlights from this stage in their Shlichus. Being that the Shluchim arrived on Friday, their first major peula began on Shabbos. It was Shabbos Chazon but it felt like Simchas Torah. Hundreds of Yidden spent Shabbos in Kfar Chabad in order to spend Shabbos with the Shluchim. Young and old listened raptly as the Shluchim spoke. Rabbi Shalom Dov Ber Shemtov shared an emotion that ran through his mind at the time: “The people of Eretz Yisroel looked at the Shluchim as an extension of the Reb- be. The members of the group were not necessarily perfect. However a sincere sense of being totally dedicated to the THE SHLUCHIM FARBRENG FOR THE ANASH OF LOD. Rebbe shone forth from them.” Late into the night, and for many lifting the spirits of the talmidim and hours on Shabbos day, the Shluchim teachers. farbrenged with the masses. Mashke During the two days that followed, flowed in abundance and spirits soared. they met with the vaad haruchni of Kfar Many elderly Chassidim were in attend- Chabad, hanholas Tzeirei Chabad, and ance, yet on this Shabbos the visiting hanholas N’shei U’bnos Chabad of Kfar Bochurim were the one who set the tone Chabad. of the farbrengen. The Chassidim were They then headed On Yud Av, a large kinus for women parched, yearning for “just one more,” and girls was held in Kfar Chabad. Rabbi sicha, maamor, nigun from the Rebbe. to the site of where Dovid Shochet addressed them, and was The lively farbrenging and energetic joined by the Rov of Kfar Chabad, Reb words of the Shluchim continued the ﬁve students Shneur Zalman Garelik, and Reb Abba through Sunday morning. Levin. had been killed. BEYOND KFAR CHABAD Kfar Chabad was surrounded by many As per the Rebbes hora’a, during the farms and fields. The Shluchim spent Many hours were first week the Shluchim were based in almost a full day visiting each of the Kfar Chabad. During the mornings and farmers, and surveying what needed im- spent there, lifting any free minute, they could be found provement. They later held a meeting learning in the zal of the Yeshivas with the vaad that oversaw all matters of the spirits of the Tomchei Temim in Kfar Chabad. Kfar Chabad, followed by a meeting with The Shluchim also spent much time all the residents of Kfar Chabad. When talmidim and strengthening and encouraging the com- the meeting concluded, a farbrengen munities around them. formed. Until the early hours of the teachers On Sunday Zayin Av they visited the morning, the masses of Kfar Chabad summer camp in Kfar Chabad, and held residents farbrenged with the Shluchim. a farbrengen with the campers. They then In accordance with the Rebbe’s in- headed to the site of where the five stu- structions, on Friday the Shluchim trav- dents had been killed, in the Beit Sefer eled to Lod, where they would spend L’melocha. Many hours were spent there, their second week.

SIVAN 5774 | 43 dents, and they all gathered together3 for a special assembly together with the Shluchim on Tuesday Tes Zayin Av. Rabbis Butman, Shemtov and Korf spoke and farbrenged with the children. At the conclusion of the farbrengen one of the young students stood up and asked the Shluchim to relay regards from all the children to the Rebbe Shlit”a. Without hesitation the Shluchim agreed. Another school boy asked the Shluchim to please ask the Rebbe to allow a Sicha to be recorded, because they had never heard the Rebbe’s voice! Later that week the Shluchim presented each child with a pocket-sized Tanya. Rabbi Shmuel Fogelman traveled the THE SHLUCHIM POSE WITH SOME OF THE STUDENTS OF THE CHABAD SCHOOL IN LOD. next day together with the secretary of Tzach, Rabbi Leib Kahan to a remote village called Moshav Taoz, where the recently arrived immigrants from India were residing. The Chief Rabbinate of Petach Tikva organized a huge Kabolas Ponim for the Shluchim in the largest Shul in Petach Tikva on Thursday night. The Shul was filled from wall-to-wall, and the crowds were addressed by the Rabbonim and local dignitaries. The first Shliach to speak was Rabbi Avrohom Korf, who delivered a pilpul in Gemora. Rabbi Sha- lom Dovber Shemtov brought regards from American Jewry, and Rabbi Faivel Rimler explained a concept in Chassidus. The impact upon the residents could THE SHLUCHIM DISTRIBUTE POCKET-SIZED TANYAS TO THE CHILDREN OF THE CHABAD SCHOOL IN LOD, ERETZ be seen openly, and the gathering was YISROEL. CREDIT: JEM/THE LIVING ARCHIVE followed by a farbrengen led by Rabbi Yosef Rosenfeld and Rabbi Yehuda Krin- INFLUENCING THE MASSES Anash and N’shei Chabad in Lod. sky. Yeshiva Bochurim from across Eretz In the days that followed, the Shluchim SHABBOS IN YERUSHALAYIM Yisroel joined the Yeshiva in Lod for visited dozens of towns and villages in Many fond memories remained in the Shabbos Parshas Vo’eschanan, looking to that area, bringing regards from the Reb- minds of the Shluchim after this unique be invigorated by the Shluchim. be and energizing the populace. Shabbos. Throughout Shabbos the Shluchim On Monday they also visited numer- Rabbi Shalom Dovber Butman recalled taught Sichos and Mammorim, and far- ous mekomos hakedoshim in Tzfas, the unexpected turn of events that Shab- brenged. Additional farbrengens were led Tverya, and Meron. Rabbi Avrohom bos: by Rabbi Dovid Shochet and Rabbi Yosef Korf chazzered a maamor at the kever of “We were warned by many, that the Rosenfeld in Hebrew to cater to the the Rashbi, as well as while they visited Yidden who resided in Yerushalayim are many bochurim who only understood the caves of the Idra Kadisha. very punctual with their schedule. It was Hebrew. The shluchim also addressed the The Cheder in Lod had over 300 stu- impossible that they would remain after

44 | A CHASSIDISHER DERHER Davening to farbreng. They were meticu- lous to consume their seudas Shabbos right after Davening. Just the opposite ended up occurring. After hearing the Shluchim speak on Friday night, and teach Chassidus in the morning, the crowds were riveted. The Shul teemed with Chassidim and non- Chassidim. Many members of Neturei Karta were in attendance as well. No one wanted to leave, and they begged the Shluchim to share more. After Shacharis, the shul remained filled to capacity, resulting in a lively farbrengen. For hours on end we farbrenged, told stories and sang niggunim, completely out of line with the usual REB AVROHOM KORF ADDRESSES THE CHILDREN OF THE CHABAD SCHOOL IN LOD. Yerushalmi conduct.” Rabbi Shalom Dovber Shemtov re- membered fondly how Reb Zushe Parti- zan announced after the Farbrengen had ended: BITTERSWEET FAREWELL -Rosh Chodesh Elul brought the histor "היינט, האט מען איינגענומען ירושלים!" “Today, we have conquered ic trip closer to its end. On their final Yerushalayim!” night, the Shluchim spent all night far- In somewhat of a whirlwind, right after brenging with the bochurim in Kfar Cha- Shabbos a group of the Shluchim headed bad, who thirstily drank in their words. to the Kol Yisroel radio station, where On Wednesday morning, the fields they were interviewed by Mr. Shmuel near the airport were once more filled Avigdor. Their words resonated throughout Eretz Yisroel, impacting Yidden of all kinds. Later in the week they received many other interviews, including one with a station called Kol Tziyon Lagoleh, which was being heard across the world, even in Soviet Russia. Throughout the next few days, the UPON ARRIVAL IN NEW YORK, THE SHLUCHIM SUBMITTED THIS TZETEL TO THE REBBE, EXPRESSING THEIR WILLING- Shluchim learned in Yeshivas Toras NESS TO CONTINUE TO FULFILL ANY DESIRE THE REBBE WISHED. THE REBBE ADDED THE NAMES OF FOUR BOCHURIM Emes and also visited other Yeshivos in WHO HAD REMAINED IN ERETZ YISROEL: [REB SHLOMO] KIRSH, [REB SHOLOM] EIDELMAN, [REB ZUSHA] POSNER, [REB SHRAGA] HERZOG. the area, many of which were not Lubav- itch. In Yerushalayim as well, a grand kabo- with hundreds of onlookers. With emo- Upon arrival in New York the las ponim was held, and hundreds of tion they bid the Shluchim farewell, and Shluchim returned to 770, ready to re- Yeshiva bochurim from Yerushalayim asked them to bring regards to the Rebbe port on their trip. They received a mes- joined. Many of the Shluchim spoke, from the Chassidim in Eretz Yisroel. On sage from the Rebbe that they should sharing ideas in Nigla, Chassidus, and everyone’s lips remained one tefila – first rest, and they would be able to enter about strengthening ones Hiskashrus. retzoneinu liros es malkeinu! Yechidus the next day. Shul after Shul and community after After some delays, the Shluchim de- On Friday at 4:15 the group of community wished for their presence. parted Eretz Yisroel, making a number of Shluchim entered their Yechidus with The Shluchim crisscrossed Eretz Yisroel brief stops in Europe on the way to New the Rebbe. The Rebbe addressed their leaving light and hope in their wake. York. Shlichus, encouraging them to write

SIVAN 5774 | 45

down all the details of their Shlichus plaining that this was because of the im- while it was still fresh in their minds. pact the Shluchim left in Eretz Yisroel. The Rebbe gave them a brocha that It is remarkable to mention that the everything they endeavored during their delegation of Chassidim that arrived for Shlichus should materialize in a revealed Tishrei in New York for the first time in way, and bring brocha to the Shluchim as Tishrei 5717, consisting of twelve indi- Reb Zushe well. viduals, perhaps an equivalent of the To the surprise of the Shluchim, the twelve Shluchim…  Partizan Rebbe concluded by giving each of the ______Shluchim a copy of the maamorim that 1. In numerous sichos and letters following the tragedy, the Rebbe expressed disdain for those announced after had been said during the weeks they had who sought to learn explanations for the shoot- been in abroad. ing, many of whom drew comparisons to the Farbrengen “These maamorim” continued the Moshe’s words after the Nadav and Avihu died – b’kroivay ekodeish. Instead the Rebbe reminded Rebbe, “should render it as if you had that vayidom Aharon – Aharon remained silent. had ended: actually heard the Maamorim in person.” On this note the Rebbe explained in a number of The revolutionary Shlichus did not letters why he didn’t address the misfortune very “Today, we have stop here. On the contrary, the aftereffect much in the first days that followed. See Igros vol. 13 p. 239. of the Shlichus grew stronger in the years 2. See Igros Kodesh vol. 13 pg 167. conquered following the Shlichus, as the Chassidim 3. After receiving a detailed account of everything in Eretz Yisroel grew stronger in their that took place while the Shluchim visited Eng- Yerushalayim!” Hiskashrus and dedication to the Rebbe. land from Reb Meir Gurkov, the Rebbe sent back a fascinating response. See Igros vol. 13 pg. 319. In the Farbrengen of Parshas Nitzavim 4. A detailed and emotional description of the -Vayelech 5716 the Rebbe mentioned the arrival of the Shluchim can be found in Biton group of guests who had arrived in New Chabad from that time. York for Tishrei for the first time, ex- 5. A detailed list of many of their activities is published in the introduction to Igros vol. 13.

Carrying On

During the Farbrengen on the Shabbos after the Shlichus. Shluchim returned from Eretz Yisroel, the Rebbe dedicat- As the Rebbe had instructed the Shluchim, after the ed almost every sicha to the subject of their Shlichus. Farbrengen the Shluchim made three separate minyanim

In between the sichos the Rebbe asked the Shluchim too for Mincha, so every Shliach could receive an Aliya and say Lechaim, and to sing a song that they had brought say Hagomel. with them from Eretz Hakodesh. The Rebbe drew a con- After Ma’ariv Rabbi Hodakov informed the Shluchim nection to an explanation given by Reb Nachman of Bres- that the Rebbe had stated that they were still considered lov on the words “Mizimras Ho’aretz” that is said in the Shluchim until Tuesday! During this time they should story of the meraglim, where Reb Nachaman says that make sure to make a Duch of everything that had oc- “mizimras” can also be translated as a song. curred. Furthermore, during these three days they should Rabbi Shalom Ber Butman then began the song “Harebi not get involved in any other matters. shelanu hu tzaddik v’nasi doreinu…” which was com- Soon after Rabbi Hodakov emerged from the Rebbe’s posed by the teacher in Beit Sefer L’melocha whom was room again and explained that Tuesday is still considered killed in the attack. a continuation of Shabbos, and that the Rebbe had looked The Rebbe then instructed the Shluchim to say Lechaim over the notes of the pilpulim the Shluchim had said dur- for the few Shluchim who had not returned from Eretz ing their trip. Yisroel, and for all those who had helped during the

46 | A CHASSIDISHER DERHER

BEHIND THE PICTURE

al redemption: “Present here are Yidden from Russia, PRIVATE a place where so many of our Jewish brethren still find themselves in need of a geulah, including a geulah with regards to learning Torah and fulfilling mitzvos CONVERSATION at ease. It is therefore appropriate that

those who already managed to escape and arrived in a country where they can hese rare photographs, dated 12 discussion is unknown, a three line entry practice Torah and mitzvos without diffi- T Tishrei, 5736 were recently discov- was found in connection with this con- culty should sing a Russian song togeth- ered by Jem/The Living Archive and giv- versation in a yoman penned at the time er, better if it be a song with Russian lyr- en for publication in A Chassidisher Der- by Reb Yitzchak Meir Sassover, one of ics. her magazine. the bochurim in 770: Being that “simcha poretz geder” – joy Pictured speaking with the Rebbe is “Wednesday, 12 Tishrei. The Rebbe breaks all boundaries, especially when Rabbi Shlomo Telushkin, son of Rabbi arrived from his home at 11:40. Near the joy is expressed by transforming the Nissan Telushkin, one of the elder Cha- mazkirus stood a man who spoke with the Russian language into good; [this song] bad Rabbonim in the United States. Rebbe about someone who recently emi- will hasten Hashem’s merciful salvation, Rabbi Shlomo Telushkin was not seen grated from Russia. The Rebbe spoke and He’ll lead them to Eretz Yisroel to very often in 770 in those years, although with him until 12:00…” greet Moshiach. he served in a position for the Rebbe as It’s interesting to note that during the There most probably is a Chazzan or accountant for various mosdos. following day’s farbrengen, Yud-Gimmel singer amongst them; let him sing a song JEM’s research team searched exten- Tishrei, 5736, the Rebbe singled out the with Russian words…” sively, in the hope of uncovering what Yidden who recently emigrated from the The crowd then sang “Sluzshaba was taking place in this intriguing pic- Soviet Union and also mentioned those Nasha” (“Who knows One?” in Rus- ture. Although, the exact nature of the who were still trapped there for a person- sian). 

CREDITS: JEM/THE LIVING ARCHIVE CREDITS: JEM/THE LIVING ARCHIVE

SIVAN 5774 | 47 מוקדש לחיזוק ההתקשרות לכ''ק אדמו''ר זצוקללה"ה נבג"מ זי''ע

לעילוי נשמת ולזכות הוו"ח אי"א רב פעלים תמים ואיש אמת החתן הרה"ת ר' לוי יצחק שי' טרייטעל ר' ישעי' ארי' ב“ר מנשה ע“ה והכלה מרת ליבא שתחי' מאטשניק

טרייטעל לרגל בואם בקשרי שידוכים

נפטר ליל ש“ק פ' וישלח מוקדש ע"י משפחתם י“ג כסלו ה' תשע“ד

In appreciation of the Rebbe’s leadership מוקדש לזכות and guidance to Klal Yisroel הרה״ת ר' לייביש משה וזוגתו מרת רינה

And וילדיהם In honor of our children קיילא באשא, בנציון דוד, אליהו איסר, רבקה שיינדל, אלתר Rosi, Chana, Abie, and Leah שיחיו

Dedicated by גלדהירש Shmuli and Mimi Kopfstein

מוקדש לזכות שלוחי כ"ק אדמו"ר זי"ע לע"נ בכל קצווי תבל הבחור התמים יוסף בן יבלחט"א נחמן בער שי'

להצלחה רבה בעבודתם הקדושה ע"י משפחתם ושיגרמו נחת רוח רב להמשלח

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