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SEPTEMBER 1999 VOLUME XXX!l/NO. 7 Photo credits: Cover. pp 7.8 Esk1e Cook Rabbi Shefte/ Meir Neuberger

Rabbi Shmuel Yaakov Weinberg n:>1:i? P'1~ l:>t A Talmid's Appreciation

t is presumptuous for a ta/mid to take responsibility for the Kial. He was talmid chacham whose hasmada was leg­ even attempt to encapsulate in mere a compassionate counselor to those who end; he might well have become the I words a definitive portrayal of his sought his advice, and, at the same time, Slonimer Rebbe, but deferred to his Rebbe. It is especially so when the an inspiring leader; a man incredibly brother Reb Avrohom, )"~\. Rebbewas an individual as unique as was simple in his personal needs, yet intel· "Reb Matis" was forced by circum­ my Rebbe, Rabbi Shmuel Yaakov Wein· lectually complex, even at ti111es stances to move to America during berg, 'J··~i, Rosh HaYeshiva of Yeshivas inscrutable. He was a deeply caring World War I. Though he earned his Ner Yisroel in Baltimore. The most I can human being who fully shared in oth· livelihood as a businessman, he would do is try to share some facts about his ers' joy and sadness, and, above all, a study Torah constantly. When a sefer life and a limited perspective of the Rosh relentless demander of truth. wasn't available, he would review Mish· HaYeshiva gleaned from observations na by heart, interrupting his learning made over the course of a relationship DEEP ROOTS IN HOLY REALMS only when a customer stood before him. - which was my deep privilege - that He and his third wife, Ayala Hinda - the spanned several decades. n the 1860s, the first Slonimer Rebbe, daughter of a well-known tzaddik and Rabbi Weinberg was the consummate Ha'Admor Rav Avraham (the author ta/mid chacham, Reb Avner Loberbaum Rebbe to his talmidim, an innovative yet I of the Yesod Ha'avoda) sent his )"~\ of Tzefas - had five children. The deeply traditional mechanech who, young grandson Reb Noach,)"~\, along third, born in New York in January, above all, inspired those he taught to with a group of Slonimer chassidim, to 1922, was Reb Shmuel Yaakov.' ---- Rabbi Neuberger, S'gan Menahel of Yeshiva Ner establish a Torah community in ] The others-~ver~R~bbi.. M-~~h;, Rebbetzin Chava Yisroel, was a talrnid of Rabbi \rVeinberg for many Tiberius. Reb Noach's son, Reb Yitzchak Pincus, Mrs. Helene Moskovitz, and Rabbi decades. Matisyahu, ?"~t, was an extraordinary Noach \Veinberg.

------·------·--·------· 8 The Jewish Observer, September 1999 Rabbi Weinberg rarely spoke of his duce exemplary talmidim - he seemed childhood years to his talmidim, other entirely empty of any desire for personal than to occasionally employ an anecdote kavod.) to illustrate an idea. Those occasions, though, were windows into his rarified AMONG GIANTS personality, and brightly reflected his uncompromising dedication to emes. fter his return to America, Rabbi

Once, for instance, he recalled with Weinberg lived in the East New Ruderman 7"? awe how a rebbe of his in Yerushalayim's A York-Brownsville section of Yeshivas Etz Chaim - where Rabbi Brooklyn. His father sent him to study of Torah texts, but introduced him to his Weinberg had studied for several years in Mesivta Torah Vodaath, where his own uniqne approach to machshava, the before his bar mitzva - had meticu­ extraordinary talents were quickly rec­ philosophical underpinnings of Torah lously worked out the subtle difference ognized. Perceived by that point as a and Avodas Hashem. in meaning between Rashi's use of the teen-aged prodigy, he was placed in the To further broaden his exposure to phrases "mefaresh b'gemara" and" b'ge­ shiur of Rabbi Shlomo Heyman, J"~l; Torah, Rabbi Hutner sent his prize mara mefaresh:' There was little doubt though he was considerably younger than talmid to Lakewood for Shabbosos, to to his listeners that the deep impression most of his classmates, they respected afford him the opportunity to observe made by that rebbe on Rabbi Weinberg him all the same for his intellectual and learn from Rabbi Aharon Kotler, as a boy had played a role the Rosh prowess and dedication to his studies. J"~l, as well. Ha Yeshiva's own approach to Torah Then, in what would prove a crucial texts, whose nuances of phrase seemed turn in Reb Yaakov's life, Rabbi Yitzchak IJLMOD U'LELAMEID to constantly occupy his formidable Hutner J"~l began to organize what mind. would become Mesivta Rabbeinu t the same time, Rabbi Hutner Another insight into Rabbi Wein­ Chaim Berlin. In an effort to support the also sent his talmid in a different berg's character-this, about his exquis­ project, Reb Shraga Feivel Mendlowitz, A direction, advising him to put his ite sensitivity to the honor of others - J"~l, drew a line on a map through the special talents to use in "Release Time'' was evident in his account of his hav­ center of Brooklyn and decreed that all programs - scheduled opportunities for ing joined friends during those child­ those learning in Torah Vodaath whose public school students to spend an hour hood years in Yerushalayim in acting homes were east of the line would have a week studying religious matters. At the with a lack of full respect in the pres­ to switch to Mesivta Rabbeinu Chaim program's inception, talmidim from all ence of Rabbi Avraham Yitzchak Kook Berlin. As a result, Reb Yaakov was asked New York yeshivas participated in help­ J"~l. One day, he recounted, he was to join Rabbi Hutner's yeshiva. ing familiarize Jewish public school stu­ struck by the sight of Rabbi Yosef Though Mr. Mendlowitz's decision dents with their religious heritage, and Chaim Sonnenfeld, J"~l, speaking with caused him an unplanned move, Rabbi Rabbi Weinberg was at the forefront of Rabbi Kook and showing him the Weinberg was not perturbed. He later the effort. Throughout his life, the greatest kavod. From that single obser­ explained that he saw it only as an Rosh Hayeshiva would actively seek to vation, the young Rabbi Weinberg incredible example of mesiras nefesh for speak to and counsel Jews who were immediately understood that something the growth of mosdos Torah, a readiness estranged from - or who had never been had been terribly wrong with his prior on Mr. Mendlowitz's part to give away exposed to - Yiddishkeit. behavior. From the deference and honor some of his most promising talmidim He nsed his keen intellect to devel­ the Rosh Ha Yeshiva constantly showed so that another Mesivta could have a op cogent source-based arguments to others, it was clear that he had seized chance at success, and the cause of demonstrate the truth of Torah and to upon and internalized that lesson com­ Torah-study in America could be combat approaches that seek to under­ pletely. advanced. As it happened, it also afford­ mine authentic Jewish belief. Years (Once, in the late 1970s, he was flown ed Rabbi Weinberg the opportunity to later, he would present many of those to a talmid's chasuna in another city to learn under Reh Hutner, who immedi­ ideas in a beautifully articulate manner be the mesader kiddushin. When a ately recognized his new tabnid's enor­ to a variety of groups and audiences. younger rabbi, with whom the chassan mous potential. During the 1950's he gave a series of lec­ had also studied, "laid claim" to the Having studied nnder the Alter of Sla­ tures as part of an adult education pro­ honor himself, Rabbi Weinberg deferred bodka, Rabbi Nasson Tzvi Finkel, J"~l, gram. My mother, n"l>, knew someone without hesitation or complaint. While Rabbi Hutner was well equipped to help who had attended the first three lectures he would never hesitate to stand up for others develop and realize their poten­ but who then suddenly stopped coming. the honor of the yeshiva - as an insti­ tial. Rabbi Hutner not only encouraged When asked why she was no longer tution founded by his father-in-law and Reb Yaakov to further develop his attending, the woman answered, "If I that has produced and continues to pro- power of analysis and plumb the depths continue listening to this man I will have

The Jewish Observer, September 1999 9 ASTALMIDIM to make profound changes in my life. I and remains its driving force. She is RECALL THEIR REBBE am simply unwilling to do so." The active as well, both in Baltimore and majority of the group stayed on to adopt nationally, in addressing the issue of According to Rabbi Nochum a religious way of life. spousal abuse. Lansky, a Ram in the Ner Yisroel During the years Rabbi Weinberg was Rabbi Yaakov and Rebbetzin Chana Beis Midrash, the profundity of studying at Mesivta Rabbeinu Chaim Weinberg were blessed with almost Rabbi Weinberg's thought process Berlin, Rabbi Yaakov Yitzchak Ruder­ five and a half decades together and have made his reaction to circum­ man, 1:r:tt, one of America's foremost six distinguished children, who, along stances, and his response to ques­ Torah pioneers, had successfully estab­ with their spouses, are deeply involved tions, totally unpredictable.A cer­ lished Yeshivas Ner Yisroel in Baltimore, in the realms of harbotzas Torah, rab­ tain type of reaction, however, was beginning in 1933. He and Rabbi Hut­ banus and chinuch in America and Israel. inevitable. When searching for an ner shared a deep friendship of mutu­ Their son-in-law, Rabbi Beryl Weisbord, explanation for a specific hafacha al admiration and respect, based upon is the Mashgiach Ruchni of Ner Yisroel. or other phenomenon, the Rosh their shared chinuch under the tutelage Yeshiva would say, "You are asking of the Alter of Slabodka. Rabbi Hutner REBBE PAR EXCELLENCE 'Why1'.That does not concern me! knew that the Baltimore Rosh Ha Yeshi­ I only have to know 1What."' va had an only daughter, Chana, of mar­ bbi Weinberg had an incredibly This was an expression of his riageable age, and, although Reb Yaakov facile mind, quick, deep and self-image, his overwhelming sense was still quite young, Rabbi Hutner pro­ ruocused. The scope of his knowl­ of mission - that of being an eved posed his talmid to Rabbi Ruderman as edge was striking and his insights could Hashem, in total servitude to his a chassan for his daughter. The offer was be breathtaking. He taught his talmidim, Creator. accepted, and, after the marriage, Rabbi moreover, how to look at everything Consistent with this approach Weinberg moved to Baltimore, where he analytically and critically. We were was the manner in which he quot­ became an immediate influence on the always cautioned to examine the words ed a Chazaf or presented an Yeshiva. His clear-headed analyses of of the Gemora, Rashi, Tosafos, other Ris­ insight. It was not in the vein of"a Torah-texts and ideas bespoke a pow­ honim - especially the Rambam - very gut vort" or the delineation of a erful dedication to truth, and his chid­ carefully. He often found critical mean­ philosophy, an abstraction. It was dushim often left his talmidim - and ings even in the way the Rambam presented as his - or your - shy­ other listeners, for he often addressed a ordered the placement of halachos. chus, involvement, with Hashem. variety of Jewish forums - amazed at the He was a phenomenal listener as well Every Rosh Yeshiva underscores scope of his knowledge and the origi­ as an exacting critic. :tiow often would his central message, such as, "You nality of his thoughts. we present what we thought was a well­ must strive for gadlus - greatness Rebbetzin Chana Weinberg, J"J!l, reasoned and supported idea, and watch - in Torah." proved to be unusually innovative and him carefully analyze and test it, only to With Rabbi Weinberg, the goal capable herself, following in the deter­ then hear him conclusively demonstrate was "to be an eved Hashem." mined footsteps of her mother, Reb­ 2 In 1924, Rabbi Rudennan 1narried Feige Other goals were also stated, betzin Ruderman il"V. She was, and Kramer, the oldest of five daughters born to Rabbi including gadfus baTorah, but the remains, actively involved in Ner Yis­ Shefte} and Devora Kramer. Her younger sister, constant over-arching demand - roel's Ladies Auxiliary, and created a Yehudis rry was the Rebbitzen of Rabbi Naftali both in private and on the public women's Service League that helps sup­ Neuberger, 1nenahel of Yeshiva Ner Yisroel. Reb­ betzin Devora \vas one of four daughters of the forum - was to be the consumate port Kolle! Avodas Levi. Over recent reno\vned Rabbi Shraga Feivel and Golda Frank, eved Hashem. years, she founded a highly effective in whose house talniidim of Rabbi Yisroel Bikur Cholim organi1ation in Baltimore, Salanter spent Chodesh Elul. A measure of Reb Shraga's greatness can be discerned fro1n the fact that when he died at the age of 42, the Gadol Hadar, Rabbi Yitzchak Elchanan Spector, )"~t participated in the tahara. His widO'A', Rebbetzi11 Golda, arranged all the shidduchin1 for her daugh­ ters. Rabbi Moshe Mordechai Epstein '.r~t, Rosh Hayeshiva of Slobodka, Rabbi Isser Zalman Meltzer J"~t, of Slutsk, and later Yeshiva Eitz Chai1n of Jerusalem, and Rabbi Baruch Yehudah • 5 Habits of Highly Effective Fundraisers Horowitz '7"~H, of Alexot and Slobodka, were the • The 1 0 Commandments of Fundraising other sons-in-law. For more details, see Rabbi • How to Reach the Donor of Your Dreams Chaim Shapiro's "Torah Pioneers" in JO, May'75, • Maximizing Your Fundraising Appointments and Chaya Baumwolspiner's "Rebbetzin Chaya • Starting a Fundraising Operation From Scratch Pcrel Kotler i1"Y" (Rebbetzin Rudennan's first • 13 Fundraising Stories cousin), in JO May '87.

------10 The Jewish Observer, September 1999 its weakness. When that would happen, He had a keen ability to deal with every MENTOR, TEACHER, he would then try and help us modify individual on that person's level, and was AND PERCEPTIVE REBBE our thought, to bring it into line with equally comfortable explaining the Professor Aaron Twerski recalls demonstrable truth. His excitement at essential principles of en1una and bita­ meeting Rabbi Weinberg at a recent a talmiifs unassailable chiddush practi­ chon to a novice as he was deciphering convention of Agudath Israel ofAmer­ cally shone from his captivating smile. a complex issue in the Gemora with a ica. They exchanged greetings, and (See sidebar) talmid chacham. And he made himself then, holding on to Dr.Twerski's hand, And if a talmid managed to present available at all times. the Rosh Yeshiva asked him,"Look at a critically valid challenge to something Indeed, he was always ready to trav­ me, Reb Aaron. You seem like you're the Rosh HaYeshiva said, he would el whenever a community or institution nine tefachim under. the ground. always acknowledge the fact and imme­ wanted him to address a group, or need­ What's with you1" diately withdraw his assertion. ed his advice on a Kial issue. He would Dr.Twerski immediately opened up Rabbi Weinberg would also urge his even take a trip on behalf of an indi­ with a problem that he had thought older talmidim to learn with and men­ vidual - sometimes even when the indi­ he had buried deep inside himself. But tor younger talmidim; he stressed that the vidual didn't even recognize his need for there was no hiding from his Rebbe's experience was an inherently valuable and Rabbi Weinberg's wisdom. perceptive eye. meaningful one. Moreover,he firmly Rabbi D., principal of a day-school --- believed, and taught, that the best way to in a Mid-Western community, As Rabbi Avi Shafran remembers: achieve greater clarity and understand­ received a call from his beloved Rebbe, There was a period of time when ing of a text or idea is by explaining it to Rabbi Weinberg: "I'm going to be in Rabbi Weinberg, at the desperate another, and that teaching and mentor­ your city tomorrow. Can you pick me request of a small yeshiva in North­ ing can help develop the teacher/mentor's up at the airport?" ern California (where I was a rebbe), own latent talents and strengths. The next morning, Rabbi D. warm­ spent several months as the institu­ At the same time, the Rosh Ha Yeshi­ ly welcomed his Rebbe, and as they got tionts "temporary Rosh Yeshiva:' va would also often caution us con­ into the D.'s family van, Rabbi Wein­ (That alone says much about him.) cerning the extraordinary trepidation berg told them, "Could I see the Rabbi Weinberg slept in a house one must have when dealing with school where you work?" This was fol­ owned by .the yeshiva, but it did not talmidim, once remarking that one lowed by various detailed questions have heat. Northern California winters who chooses to become a rebbe must regarding the school. can be chilly, so an electric heater was realize that he is thereby jeopardizing his "Where do you live? Can we pass instaHed in his room. We were very own Olam Habba. "Dealing with your house?" concerned when he seemed to have talmidim;' he said, "is dinei nefashos (a After some personal questions, caught a cold which would not go matter of life and death)." A true, car­ Rabbi Weinberg asked Rabbi D., "Do away. Finally, a talmid went into his ing rebbe knows that he bears respon­ you ever lose your temper with the lay room to make sure the heater was sibility for the totality of his talmid's out­ leaders of the school?" functioning properly. It wasn't there. look, personality, development and "Yes," replied the principal. "Some­ The yeshiva's cooks, an immigrant future. times they are so far afield from couple from Russia, slept in another part Rabbi Weinberg himself was such a understanding the school's goals, and of the house, and, for some reason, no - rebbe. how we are to achieve them, that I lose one had thought to heat their. quarters. iny patience with them." Rabbi Weinberg, we found out, had sur­ ALL FOR THE KLAL Rabbi Weinberg spent the next few reptitiously moved the heater from his minutes explaining how the baalehat­ own room to that of the cook. "I did­ e was able, too, to impart to his tim- the lay leadership - are his part­ n't want them to catch a chill:' he later tabnidin1 a sense of responsi­ ners in his sacred mission, and they explained. H bility to bring Yiddishkeit to deserve his respect. If they fail to share Jews who were not fortunate to have his goals or understand his approach for Jews wherever they might be was his been raised within the framework of in chinuch, it is his task to educate them dedication to a group of Iranian fa1ni­ Torah Judaism. It is no wonder that so - with patience and with dignity. But lies who had relocated to in Los Ange­ 1nany personalities of note in kiruv and never to lose his temper. Never. les. He would spend Shabbos several klal institutions and efforts across the At that point, Rabbi Weinberg ti1nes a year with them, teaching them continent - and around the world - checked his watch and told his host and encouraging them to strengthen are talmidim of Rabbi Weinberg. that time for his return flight is their attachment to Torah and to the He himself was open - and approaching. Could he drive him maintenance of their holy traditions. approachable - to anyone who sought back to the airport? He regularly crossed not only the his counsel or wanted to learn from him. Typical of Rabbi Weinberg's concern United States but the Atlantic Ocean, as

The Jewish Observer, September 1999 17 DISTINCTIVELY RABBI WEINBERG

Rabbi Simcha Cook, Ram in the A talmid remembers: Beis Midrash of Ner Yisroel, recalls: I learned with the Rosh Yeshiva Many years ago, we were discussing every Thursday night for many bitachon and the Rash Yeshiva told me years. One Thursday he went to that he had just returned from an x­ Atlanta for a family simcha, and I did ray examination.The doctor called to not expect him to return in time for say that a spot appeared in the lung, our seder (scheduled session) Con­ Rabbi Weinberg addressing the 10th Siyum and it looked very ominous.The Rosh sequently I did not show up at his Hashas/DafYomi, 1997 Yeshiva told me that he was not dis­ house that evening. On Friday night, turbed one bit and he accepted it when I wished him the usual gut well. For many years he would spend the completely as the will of Hashem Yis­ Shabbos, he asked me where I had latter part ofTamuz in Yerushalayim at boroch. It did not faze him in the been the previous night. He told me Aish Hatorah, where his brother, J"J\ slightest. He said that "lvdu es that he had left the simcha early, and Reb Noach is Rosh HaYeshiva, and Hashem besimcha - Serve Hashem taken an earlier flight in order to be would present shiurim to a variety of with joy;' instructs a person to accept back for our seder. He knew how groups for hours on end. completely any situation in which one much I enjoyed that once-a-week He touched so many individual lives finds oneself and to serve the Ribbono session, how much it meant to me, in so many different ways that even those Shel Olam in this situation with the and he did not want to disappoint closest to him were not fully aware of understanding that this is the will of me. He cut short his own pleasure the scope of his activities. Reb Yanke! Hashem. (It turned out that the diag­ for the sake of someone else. Weinberg, a distinguished member of nosis was made in error.) the Baltimore community, who never, however, served as the Rosh HaYeshiva of Ner Yisroel, related during shiva that

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The Jewish Observer, September 1999 13 and lay leadership in commumlles across the continent and virtually ON COMPETITION IN THE CLASSROOM around the globe. Rabbi Weinberg took pains to prevent e live in a society that ers' notes? And if I can accomplish sim­ the introduction of any element that motivates by competi~ ply by doing better than you, all I need could in any way alter that continuity. tion,and that therefore to do is marginally better than you - Though by inclination he was open to W preaches the need to teach our children often I will have little motivation to push new ideas and fresh approaches, he saw his role as Rosh Ha Yeshiva as guardian of how to compete and how to compete myself to truly excel. Moreover, what will the integrity of Rabbi Ruderman's lega­ well. Unfortunately, even the chadorim have happen to the poorer students in the cy. At the same time, he brought to his adopted competition as a means of moti­ class, who know that they will never actu­ position of leadership many of the vation, complete with student-compari­ ally win the competition; what is to drive unique elements of his personality. He son-charts on the wall and Bees to deter­ them to do their best? Does it really was always more comfortable, for mine who knows the material the best. make sense to reward the brightest stu­ instance, learning and teaching Gemora And therein lies the problem. The focus dents more for easily winning than the in smaller groups; "giving a chabura" was has shifted from.'Who knows things well?" slower ones for trying their hardest? always his preference. He took great plea­ to,"Who knows things best!" No longer Most fundamentally of all, what sure from the give-and-take inherent in is accomplishment valued relative to one's does such a system teach our children a more intimate setting and, until his final own abilities and previous accomplishments about the definition of success and what or even relative to an absolute standard may be done to attain such success? Watch A TALMID RECALLS of possibilities, but relative to what other them when they play at sports - do individuals accomplish. Greatness is not they play for the exercise or even for Rabbi Yissochar Frand recalls understood as being the best I can be, the development of skills, or do they play a conversation with Rabbi Wein­ but as being better than others.Torah has in order to win~When they "choose up" berg some thirty years ago, when a tenn for that M~kabed beka/an chavelro, sides, do they try to even up the teams student uprisings were sweeping gaining respect through another's disgrace, so they will have a good competition, campuses across the country. and the halacha is that such conduct caus­ or do they seek to each get the best Social commentators, political es one to lose one's share in Olam Habba team, so they will win the game? Are conservatives - especially religious (Rambam Hilchos Teshuva 3: 14). they thus not guilty of being mafbin p'nei leaders - were appalled at the Such corruption naturally has dele­ chaveiro berabbim, of humiliating the last toppling of moral standards in per­ terious effects. If all I need to do to be one picked (another way of losing one's sonal conduct. Rabbi Weinberg successful is to beat you, isn't it easier remarked that the Orthodox share in the O/am Habba - ibid.), the community will hold its own to cause you to do worse than me, than one whom nobody wanted because they against that particular aspect of to get mysetf to do better than you? Sure didn't want to - horror of horrors - the "moral revolution." More enough, who hasn 1t heard of university be the loser? M.W. insidious to our way of life, he pre­ students sabotaging each others' exper­ dicted, will be the rise of feminism. iments or pouring ink over each oth-

days, continued givmg chaburos both publicly besmirched, the Torah com­ within the Yeshiva and over the phone to munity throughout the world registered avreichim in kollelim across the country. its collective protest. Rabbi Weinberg's When it came to delivering a mus­ drasha at the time, delivered to a com­ saror hashkafa shmuess, though, no mat­ munity-wide gathering in the Beis ter how large the audience, he was not Hamidrash of the Yeshiva, was a mag­ only ready and willing but always For $100 we will help increase the nificent and forceful declaration of the seemed to find the precise sources centrality of emunas chachamim (trust prayer focus in your shul by sending you most appropriate for the time; his elo­ in our sages) and kavod ha Torah (hon­ 50 copies of our booklet. quence and delivery are legend. oring the 1orah). '7alk ... but not during davening." And he spoke up without hesitation And at the end of 1997, when Balti­ when events created the need for a more's Jewish Community Center Write: Yeshiva Fund strong clear voice. Many years ago, when threatened to change its policy and open Box 82, Staten Island, NY 10309 Rabbi Elazar Shach N"l:>'J\!l's honor was one of its facilities on Shabbos, and more

------~----- 14 The Jewish Observer, September 1999 ·;Y":-'-\~':r:-:.~··::K:>>>·~·:-- .. , ··":~~ii.f;-;.~;;·;;: ·i~s:tt~~:{r~f~%±f!'·~;.;;:i> ,~,,...... 10,, ortoddlerhasdifficulfywlth ... W Communication Rabbi Weinberg addressing the ?5th National Listening/Speaking skills Conve11tio11 ofAgudath Israel ofAmerica, 1997 l.IJ l.IJ Physical. development/Coordination than 3500 people attended a rally to l.IJ Play skills/Living Skills i.e. eating, dressing honor the mitzva of Shabbos, Rabbi Weinberg galvanized the gathering by eloquently portraying the seriousness of We can help! the situation, and set the tone for what turned out to be a most powerful kid­ Early dush Hashem: the rescinding of the plan. Intervention He fully supported the philosophy Program and ideals of Agudath Israel of Ameri­ [I) NE~=~~::. ca, urging his talmidim to identify with ® the Agudah movement and actively tak­ ing part in the activities of its Baltimore Hetcare's team of evaluators and therapists can make a difference. branch. He also participated in events They are specially trained to provide children with the opportunity of the National Agudah whenever called to develop their full potential and to help you further promote their upon, and had a special regard for the development. many talmidim of Ner Yisroel who are prominent in both the professional and Au services are free of charge and available at the child's home lay leadership of Agudath Israel. or day care center throughout NYC & Westchester. At Torah Umesorah Conventions, Weekdays, Sundays, Daytime & Evening Hours. where Ner Yisroel talmidim were also :::.; Evaluations in your language :.t Special Instruction always very well represented, he often delivered spectacular presentations at the :.r Speech/Language Therapy :l: Parent Training 1najor sessions, and made himself avail­ :.:.. Occupational & Physical Therapy :.:.. Psychological Counseling able for smaller groups gathered to dis­ :.:.: Service Coordination & Social Work Services ... and more cuss practical approach to pressing Jewish educational issues. Joseph Geliebter, Ph.D. Leah Schlager, M.A. His participation at gatherings of the Executive Director Director of Placement National Council of Young Israel's Rab­ Hetcare, Inc. is a participating agency of Comprehensive Hetworh founded in 1985 bis and the Association of Jewish Out - reach Professionals also was a source of great chizuk to countless dedicated individuals who are devoting their lives to the pulpit rabbinate and the chal­ lenging and vital field of kiruv. Weeks after the Rosh HaYeshiva's petira, one 718-339-2971 highly respected rav of a major shul in 718-339-5900 the New York area was heard to remark, Faxo 718-339·8433 "With his wide understanding of the 1675 E.16th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11229 mode of thought of people far from Funded and regulated by the New York State Department of Health. In New York City by Torah, he was so able to address the the New York City Department of Mental thorniest, most difficult contemporary Health, Mental Retardation and Alcoholism challenges rabbanin1 and kiruvworkers Services and in Westchester by the County Department of Health. are faced with. I can't imagine who will be able to take his place:'

The Jewish Observer, September 1999 15 His loss is felt no less heavily by all ily available to educate, excite, broaden have already - the new challenges we who were privileged to hear his public and deepen our understanding and face, the advice we need, will no longer words, or his private ones. Thousands appreciation of the Torah. But the new be resolved, and with such clarity and of hours of his recorded voice are read- questions that we will have - that we care, with a simple phone call. •

RABBI WEINBERG ON "DAAS TORAH"

he Rosh Hayeshiva, Rambam, Hilchos Talmud Torah, and would say a shiur by simply reading explained the concept of then said that he only recently had the Chumash - in English! - and Daas Torah very dearly and showing how his conclusions and T come to that understanding - after simply: All decisions that we make are having learned Rambam, Hilchos Tal­ those of Chazal were drawn from the ultimately based on axioms of thought mud Torah over two hundred times! text without any need for inter­ that we assume without evidence. Most­ It seems to this writer that this pretation as such, but from simply ly. those axioms are either inborn or reading the words carefully and tak­ approach was the touchstone to his else indiscriminately assimilated from extraordinary ability to field almost ing its phrasing seriously.) the culture in which we live. Torah any question on basics in hashkafa - Some time later, I tried again, and demands that one reexamine every regarding yesodos haTorah, darkei asked him how he achieved his mas­ issue afresh and discover what the Torah hahashgacha, de'os, and the like - tery in learning. His answer: "I used has to say about it.To do that, one must succinctly and convincingly. He had to be terrific in pilpul, until I realized first "wipe the slate clean" and so thought through the corpus of that with such an approach I could approach the question with the hashkafa that its concepts were as reach any conclusion I wanted, and understanding that one does not know vivid in his mind as two-plus-two­ therefore know nothing with cer­ the answer. Only then will one discover equals-four to the rest of us. He tainty. I decided that if I wished to what the Torah is telling us, instead of understood these concepts so thor­ actually know what the Torah was imposing one's own ideas and oughly and integrated them so seam­ telling me, I must simply go with what assumptions on the Torah. Once the lessly that, of course, he could the words say, and no more." body of one's assumptions are taken immediately spot the flaws in the Very often, he would ask a kushya from Torah, one's very way of look­ questioners' line of reasoning. and answer it in two steps. First, he ing at the world has been transformed would show that the question itself into a Torah one: this is Daas Torah. His Derech Halimud forced us to recognize a certain fact. This approach is required not only The most prominent feature of "This much is muchrach (compellingly with regard to the macro-assump~ his derech halimud - his approach to evident);' he would say. Then he tions of life, but with regard to the learning - was an exacting fidelity would proceed to explain that fact. micro~analyses of individual pieces of to the words of Chazal and Rishon­ Buthe was very careful to distinguish Torah as well. One must let go of the im (early commentators, circa 12th that which he had shown the Torah assumptions we cherish about what - 15th centuries), and even more to to be saying from his own conjectural Chazal mean to say, and examine the words of the Chumash, so that explanation thereof. "I am speculat­ Torah again and again, constantly seek­ he was medayek (fastidious in read­ ing, that is all. Others are entitled to ing to correctly discover what it is ing) very carefully as to why each speculate dift'erentiy But whether you that the Torah is telling us.This is what statement had to be made, and what like my rationale or not, the fact that Chazal mean when they say that Torah we are being told by each phrase. we are discussing is muchrach." must be "bechol yom be'einecha Inevitably, he would discover extra­ He would stress that each Rishon kechadashos- like new every day";we ordinary insights that others simply must be read differently and must never accept something just missed. I once asked him from where "learned" on its own terms.The Rosh because we always thought it so. he got this unique ability, but HaYeshiva very clearly was medayek His emphasis of this approach phrased the question poorly, "From differently in each Rishon. In some explained how he could speak about where did the Rosh Hayeshiva get his cases, he was medayek words and in the same halacha in the Rambam derech (approach)/" He retorted some cases only phrases, based on every year on Rosh Hashana before sharply,"! don't know what you mean. an understanding of how each one tekiyas shofar, and every year have a I don't have a derech. I simply read wrote. One could even· occasional­ new insight into the same words. It the words:· (This method, by the way, ly discern a difference in how he ana­ left us not surprised at all when he was another of his secrets to suc­ lyzed the Ramban and how he ana­ told us a fundamental chiddush in the cess with the not-so-frum. He lyzed the Rashba! M.W.

~--~------~~------·-·--·------16 The Jewish Observer, September 1999 you ha.~,, your bri'. ears~i"· • •

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Living on the Edge Avodas Hashem, Ice Climbing, and the Joys of Encountering Significance

COMBATING THE Eisav said, 'Behold I am going to die, why thing that happens after mediocrity, is "WHATEVER" SYNDROME do I need the bechora?"' Rashi explains the ground!" that Eisav meant, "How many penalties In other words, the ice climber does­ n article in National Geographic of death can result from the avoda (1em­ n't view himself as someone who throws Magazine (Dec. '96) describes the ple service, performed by the first his life away, but as someone who trea­ A thrills of "Ice Climbing" - the born)!" The pasuk describes this rejec­ sures life. He lives in a world where the sport of climbing frozen waterfalls and tion of the avoda, as "Vayivez Eisav es vast majority of his actions make no dif­ the sheets of ice that form on the slopes habechora - Eisav scorned the becho­ ference. He yearns for an existence where of mountains. Along with stunning pic­ ra." (Rereishis 25,32-34) each movement he makes determines tures and gripping descriptions of the What separates Yaakov, who yearned life or death. This "life or death" situa­ sport, the article asks ice climbers why for the bechora, from Eisav, who reject­ tion forces him to maximize the poten­ they risk their lives and how they enjoy ed it? What is the secret of Am Yisroefs tial of his mind and body. Suddenly, the sport when "even dedicated alpin­ seemingly reckless desire to live the life everything he does is infused with ists and rock climbers - a group not of avoda despite the risks involved? Even meaning. For him, that sense of signif­ noted for prudence - often view water­ more so, how can we love the Torah so icance means feeling "alive." That is fall climbing as a suspiciously masochis­ intensely even as we know that the hor­ worth risking everything, even life itself. tic pastime." rors of the" Tochacha" (Biblical Admo­ In the vernacular of the nineties, a That question, and the answers that nition) can be unleashed by our failure word that has become a symbol of the follow, brought me back to a gathering to keep its commandments? generation's attitude is "whatever:' It has in Yerushalayim nearly ten years ago, The response of the ice climbers pro­ become an all-purpose answer, which when I sat in on a question- and-answer vides clues to the answer. One of the transmits "world weariness," a feeling session for college students beginning to climbers, describing his experience, that "nothing I do makes very much dif­ study Torah. A young man asked, "It explained: ference." The ice climber is running seems that in every tefilla we ask for the "Already I'm far above the flats. The from the world of "whatever" that he rebuilding of the Reis Hamikdash. I've view releases a surge of brain chemi­ views as a safe, comfortable, living been studying a bit, and it seems that the cals that blows the rust from my cere­ death. Hundreds of feet up, hanging off laws of the Reis Hamikdash are very bral pipes. 'Pay attention!' I tell myself the side of a frozen waterfall, nobody complex and that so many transgres­ aloud. This is serious ... I am excruci­ says "Whatever." sions come with a penalty of death. Why atingly aware that a blunder could be The sad mistake of the ice climber lies do we pray for the return of an institu­ fatal. Which explains why, paradoxi­ in his belief that by creating a situation tion that can, quite frankly, kill us?" cally, I feel more alive than I have in a of "life and death;' he has lent signifi­ Though the question was innocent month. Ice climbing restores the pri­ cance to his life. While he has invested enough, it echoes another question mal hues that have been bleached from each movement with the significance of asked thousands of years earlier: "And the canvas of civilized existence. It "life and death;' his presence on the side lends one's actions immediacy, a deli­ of the frozen waterfall is, in itself, Rabbi Shuster is a maggid shiur in Machon Lev, cious gravity that is sorely lacking in meaningless. To discover a life of sig­ Jerusalem. A frequent contributor to these pages, his article, "Breaking Down the Walls," workaday life. What you do on the side nificance beyond the wildest dreams of appeared in the Summer '99 JO. of a frozen waterfall matters .... The an ice climber, we simply have to

18 The Jewish Observer, September 1999 appreciate the daily life of an oveid is choosing between good and evil. Bishvilli nivra ha'olam is not the arro­ Hashem - a servant of G-d. Because of this, in avodas Hashem, we gant declaration of the egocentric. It is must feel the same gravity as if our the cry of awe and joy that flows from FROM THE PRECARIOUS PERCH lives were in danger. In such a situa­ the heart of an oveid Hashem who real­ OF DAILY DECISIONS tion, all triviality and all useless izes that he has been chosen for a life of thoughts disappear. Therefore, I must responsibility and significance. The Everyone must view himself, all year attempt to imagine this feeling con­ state of the universe depends on the as if he is half zakai and half chayav. stantly so that I can devote myself seri­ actions of each and every one of us. Each Ifhe sins once, he has decided guilt for ously and exclusively to the yoke of of us has a unique task to fulfill in himself and the entire world and Avodas Hashem and free myself from Hashem's plan for the world! caused its destruction. If he does one triviality and that which is not real. Rabbi Friedlander '.;>":,/l explains that mitzva, he has decided righteousness Many people imagine that a baa/ this is the true meaning of our repeat­ for himself and the whole world (Ram­ mussar (ethical personality) such as ed requests for "chaim" during Yamim bam Hilchos Teshuva, Ch.3). Rabbi Friedlander '.:>":,it, who under­ Nora'i1n: "Zochreinu l'chaim" doesn't his halacha from the Rambam stands the true significance of his simply refer to our desire to keep describes the everyday, minute­ actions, must be plagued by anxiety and breathing. In asking for chaim, we ask Tto-minute existence of every ben depression. When they actually meet a for a significant task in fulfilling Haka­ and bas Yisroel. Each action, each word, baa/ mussar, they are surprised to dis­ dosh Baruch Hu's plan for the world. To each thought is performed within the cover an individual who is energetic and an aveid Hashem, insignificance is worse framework of the pasuk, "I have placed joyful. To the uninitiated, this comes as than death. before you life and death, the blessing more of a surprise than the smile on the and the curse. Choose life so that you face of the ice climber. ESCAPING ACCOUNTABILITY, and your children will live (Devarim)." For this reason, Hashem created LOSING SIGNIFICANCE The life of an oveid Hashem is devoid of man "yechidf' (in the singular) to teach the "whatever" syndrome.1 you that whoever destroys one nefesh n discussions with teenagers, I have Rabbi Chaim Friedlander '.J":,il, the Yisroel is considered by the Torah as asked tl1em what they would do if late Mashgiach of Ponevezh, described one who destroyed an entire worJd, I they suddenly discovered they weren't these feelings in his diary during Israel's and whoever sustains one nefesh Yis­ Jewish. There had been a mistake, their War of Independence .... roel is viewed by the Torah as one who maternal grandmother hadn't convert­ Yerushalayim - Elul 1948 sustained an entire world .... There­ ed properly, and they were unquestion­ ...When we are in a situation of fore, each and every person must say ably goyim. They are then faced with a sakonas nefashos (risking our lives, "Bishvilli nivra ha'olam - the world choice. They could remain b'nei Noach, may Hashem save us), don't all of the was created for me!" (Sanhedrin 37) keep the Seven Noachide Commands, meaningless thoughts and fruitless imaginings, which bothered us all day, vanish? During the moments that L.S. our thoughts are focused on fear for TYPE OF CAR OR SIMllAR 26 AUG. 99 our lives ... these other thoughts seem 19 DEC. 99 ridiculous. Our minds can't be drawn A FIAT PUNTO 3 OR ~~ ~~- --B i='fAT pu-NTo s-oR. --~_ .... _?"" .... to trivial, useless thoughts. -c--- RENAULT-CLIO·- _:- ~§-_ 2 -c'' p-euGEOT-306______2_!_~ .,.. O. In truth, I must remember that c--=-;- MIT-i:fUBISHli::AR1SMA______2_~~ !I:"'°: -_c_[?- "CiTR-OEN--x-sARA''OISEi ---~~~ (!) every moment I am in this situation __ NT_ -;,•l1Ni8iiS-sSEATS______~.?-9. t::, - between life and death. With every ·M·A•.r.i"l!iiNiile:;,i·u.,."r.i'loii"S!!Ell!A!TSm;mm••s•'•"• :::> "( thought, and every action, I must 0 KIAPAIDE/OAIHATSUSIAION ~-'I·~- "'~ -_E -_DA.. ~WO£~C~~~-S~=----·------~-4-~ 2: , choose between good and evil, eternal .. .f_ _• __Nl_Ss_AN _AL~_El'l:A_ -~-~-'."I:. 9. 0- G 'MAZOALANTl$1.8 _ --~!_5 -• Q'I life and death (for the resha'im are K-' ~-G-MC SAVA"i·~A ... --- )~,·~-~ :3 ..J called "dead" even during their life). -x------;SUBAilU-LEGACY-1c1rROeNxANTIA --~~_o __ v, ::, .x_L ;-MAZDA626_i-PEiiGEOT-4'cii-2.'0 ~~as % -,. Reb Yisroel Salanter explained that the sx --.~CHEvR-6uiT-MAL1Bi.i _____ - ..~.s-~-- (!) ~ 1d( • MAzriA -MPV------_?"~-~ - Gemora in Sanhedrin that tells us that ·vx- ·0-voi:.vo 940------~-----~ · a33 % for details &.. reservation: -:.i"'"" - --;.--LA-NO.ROVERbiSCOVERV -980.. a judge should always visualize Gehin­ USA CANADA nom open before him, applies to the &.. judgment each person makes when he Toll Free: (1) 800-938-5000 ---· ! 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The Jewish Observer, September 1999 19 and receive no punishment for that deci­ Judaism where yeshivas, Bais Yaakovs Jew that every beracha, every tefilla, sion, or they could accept mitzvos and and kollelim are hard pressed to handle every Mishna, and every act of chessed become Jews with all of the obligations, the stream of applicants, we risk losing changes the very fabric of the universe dangers and rewards in that life. Some that feeling of meaning in our individ­ and the course of history. With each of teens say that they would consider ual actions. One yeshiva student told me, the myriad decisions we make each day, remaining b'nei Noach, at least for a while. 'Tm a good bachur, but our Beis we are saving our lives and those of the A true oveid Hashem would react Midrash has a hundred stars. A lot of entire world. The exhilaration of the ice with horror at spending even a minute days I feel that it doesn't make any dif­ climber should only be a pale shadow as a ben Noach, despite the apparent ference whether I come to sederor not.'' of the "Ashreinu" (how fortunate we comfort of reduced responsibility for his When the shu/s are full, doe> it make that are!) felt by a Jew going about what may actions. Separation from a life of 613 much difference if I get to minyan on seem to be the most mundane actions. mitzvos and the accompanying conse­ time, or at all? As long as I read reports Clarifying this to any Jew is a gift quences is, for him, a loss of life itself, that Torah is growing and flourishing, beyond all riches. for so many aspects of his life will how can I motivate myself to invest all Yanai, a chozer betshuva from Rishon become insignificant. of my strength into every aspect of my Letziyon, told me the following story. The challenge of our generation is to individual avoda? "In tenth grade, our secular high avoid the sense of individual insignif­ In Chovos Hatalmidim, Rabbi school studied sefer Kohelles as part of icance that, in some ways, can stem Kalonimus Kalman of Piasetzna 1''n the Tanach curriculum. As I read the from our successes. In the generation points out that these thoughts can sap sefer, I agreed with the logic ofall that after the war, when the Torah world was our strength: Shlomo Hamelech wrote. 'Hakol hevell being rebuilt, there was a tremendous Take a farmer and ask him to All is nothingness!' I looked to the end sense of significance to the presence and swing his scythe back and forth as if of the sefer to find the answer and I actions of each teacher, each student, he is harvesting wheat. After half an saw the last pasuk. and each askan (activist). Through hour he will be exhausted. If he is actu­ "'Sof davar hakol nishma ... , The their lives, Torah was coming back to life ally harvesting wheat, however, he can sum of the matter, when all has been from the ashes! continue from sunrise to sundown! considered: Fear Hashem and keep His Today, in the major centers of Torah Somehow, we must transmit to each commandments, for that is man's

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20 The Jewish Observer, September 1999 whole duty. For G-d will judge every deed - even everything hidden, as to whether it good or evil.' "My heart leapt! Here was the answer! Life is not meaningless. Somehow, each action is meant to be Personal responsibility throughout service - NOT JUST "PAPERWORK" significant, but how? I approached my ORIGINATOR OF THE PRESENT RABBINICALLY APPROVED METHOD teacher and asked him to explain. Highly recommended by Gedolai Hador- Here and in Eretz Yisrael "He looked at me condescendingly 104.J-42ml Street, Brooklyn, NY 11219 and said, 'Yanai, pay no attention to Day & N'.ght phone: (718) 851-8925 those last verses. Modern Biblical crit­ J))P'r.JN1~0Nj7 ))l"i' - 1'1~ 1Nl 11lr.Jll)) 'll~ icism maintains that those verses °""" !hd F.Mll> 1'idi - Ndi>lws ...... i and pralio.tby one """' m111' induotry fur more dm half a - were added by some rabbis centuries BEWARE OF IMPOSTERS • TAHARAS ffANIFTAR SHOULD NEVER BE COMMERCIALIZED later to get their views in.' "I was devastated. There was no answer. Life was meaningless! I dropped out of high school and wan­ dered, always pursued by an over­ whelming sense of emptiness. I joined a combat unit in the army, and it still pursued me. Finally, near the end ofmy army service, I met people who told me that my teacher lied! The pesukim are real, and I discovered that a world of Torah and mitzvos, of significance, exists." His eyes brirnming with tears, he told me, "Those fews who grew up ~ur course is taught by experienced frum often have no idea what a gift Mechanchim and principals. Lecturers include they have received: significance! They RABBI YOEL KRAMER. haven't experienced the horrible RABBI HILLEL MANDEL, emptiness of life without meaning." MR. AVI SHULMAN If only each of us could see this as and other leading mechanchim. clearly as Yanai did. Ashreinu, Mah tov chelkeinu! How fortunate we are[ How ~ics covered include classroom good is our portion! • management. practicum, discipline. methodology. parent relations. child development and other important topics. Classes begin after Succos in Mesivta Torah Vodaath

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The Jewish Observer, September 1999 21 APPROACHING ROSH HASHANA Rabbi Matis Roberts

Neglected Treasure or Relic of the Past?

t all seemed so simple then. To my an absolute obligation on every Jew exception, and the general level of dil­ youthful eyes, with their simplistic, ( Chayei Adam, Hilchas Yam Hakip­ ligence and scholarship is simply not I black and white perceptions, the purim 143:1; Mishna Berurah 1:12). comparable to that which once pre­ issue of mussar1 was very clear-cut. The How, then, do devout Jews justify their vailed. Clearly there is a need to sup­ Jewish community included two kinds refusal to devote themselves on any seri­ plement the Torah we study with the of people: those who pursued the plea­ ous level to this activity?' Are there real­ means to internalize it - both within sures of this world and those who ly legitimate reasons for turning away the yeshivas and beyond. focused on the World-to-Come. Mem­ from mussaf? Has its study become out­ Furthermore, we live highly exposed bers of the first group did not learn mus­ dated? Or are we neglecting a resource to general society, and it would be fool­ sar; those in the second group did. Sure, that could substantially improve the ish to claim that we are not affected. We there were exceptions. There were the quality of our Yiddishkeif? In order to are affected directly by the endless rare individuals whose involvement in clarify this issue, we need to note the rea­ indulgence and rampant immorality Torah study was so intense that it gave sons given for this refusal and to weigh that surrounds us. And we are affected, them all of the spiritual sustenance they their validity. as well, by the feelings of complacency needed. And there were others, not on that the contrast between our culture that level, who convinced themselves f someone is steeped in the study of and theirs tends to foster. Instead of that they were. As a rule, however, the Torah, that alone will elevate and moving us to greater intensity in our two general categories seemed to prevail. I refine his character; he doesn't spiritual growth, that contrast often But as time went on, it became appar­ need mussar. leaves us satisfied with mitzvas anashim ent that life is not so tidily defined. There This point seems hard to dispute, as melumada - habitual religious practice are many sincere, idealistic people - the it is well-based in the writings of Ghaz­ devoid of true devotion. After all, com­ type who would seem to be ((naturals" al. Indeed, when the mussar movement pared to the decadence all around us, we for mussar study- who do not find that first began, this was one of the reasons seem pretty impressive. This situation activity necessary or deem it worthwhile. that it was refused entry into many leaves plenty of room for improvement This is true even within the yeshivas, yeshivas. But the yeshivas then were elite in the quality of our religious obser­ among those involved entirely in Torah institutions, accepting only select indi­ vance. study and growth, let alone in the broad­ viduals who were well-developed and And then there is the issue of mid­ er world outside. highly motivated in Torah study. And das. The Torah's standards of character This seems rather puzzling. After all, even so, most of the yeshivas eventual­ refinement are exceedingly high. Even there is a vast array of sources that extol ly included limmud hamussar in their by the letter of the law, we are forbid­ the virtues of limud hamussar (see curriculum. Today, the situation is quite den to gossip; we may not bear a Sefer Ohr Yisroel, Shaarei Ohr §5, which different. For various reasons, yeshiva grudge for having been truly wronged; cites many of them), some declaring it education is the standard rather than the we are required to love every fellow Jew; we must assume the best when judging I Mussar is the study of classic Torah literature 2 Chazon Ish, in Emuna Ubitachon, discusses at for the purpose of attaining ethical growth and length the limitations of mussar study. Howev­ others' actions ... the list goes on and on. refinement of character. er, it is clear from his words that he accepts its In addition, we are expected to devel­ role in spiritual growth as a given. His point is op all of the qualities that mark a per­ Rabbi Roberts is the Mashginch Ruchani of Yeshi­ not to question its necessity but to clarify its prop­ son of merit - qualities such as hon­ va Shaar HaTorah of Queens. His essay, "The Ele­ er framework: that it must be encased in a set­ ments of Ego: Striking a Balance Between ting of intensive Torah study and painstaking esty, integrity, generosity, compassion, Humility and Self Esteem," was featured in JO halachic precision. and sensitivity. And these qualities April '99. must be internalized as well as practiced.

22 The Jewish Observer, September 1999 It is not enough to merely act like good moral virtues. We are required to work people; we have to be good people. on our character until all that is good Thus, the Mishna in Avos (5: 11) dis­ and noble has been fully internalized. cusses a person who says, '(What is mine Would anyone seriously claim that this • is mine and what is yours is yours." Some level of virtue prevails among us today? iving in the age of say that he is of average virtue; others electronics, we are compare him to the people of Sodom. kay, so we need to supplement L Rabbeinu Yona explains: This Mishna is our Torah study with personal used to pushing buttons discussing a person who gives charity in 0 development. But I have stud­ accordance with his obligation, {but ied mussar, and it hasn't made me any and watching the results only] out offear {of Hashem]. However, better. Why keep pursuing something he is stingy by nature, declaring [in his that doesn't work? take place heart/, "What is mine is mine and what This view is flawed in two important automatically. And we is yours is yours." [The first Tanna main­ ways. First of all, mussar does not make tains that] since he supports the poor you better; it motivates you to make have come to expect when they come to him ... what do we care yourself better. Mussar doesn't "work"; about his nature? The level itself is an it inspires you to work. Living in the age the same in matters of average one. Others say that this charac­ of electronics, we are used to pushing ter trait is that of Sodom and its root is buttons and watching the results take the soul. But the very wicked. {Thus he is considered place automatically. And we have come elements of spiritual wicked even if he gives,} ... so long as he to expect the same in matters of the soul. does not have a giving nature. But the elements of spiritual growth growth cannot be In other words, one who does not cannot be modernized. Without the develop a generous nature is at best input of "blood, sweat, toil, and tears;' modernized mediocre and possibly wicked - even nothing of substance is going to take ifhe meets the Torah's requirements for place. giving! The same applies to all other This point is brought out clearly by •

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The Jewish Observer, September 7999 23 Rabbeinu Yona, who instructs us in the were the major proponents of the Mus­ main benefit of limud hamussar is its proper response to personal rebuke: sar Movement? They were spiritual cumulative effect. Every day, a person However, a man, upon hearing rebuke, giants whose hearts were aflame with contemplates his obligations in this must arouse his soul and take the words burning devotion to Hashem. They world, along with the importance of his to heart, contemplating them constantly embraced enthusiastically anything that relationship with the Almighty. And he and expanding them. And he must bring offered the slightest inspiration, and they gives some thought to where he stands out words from his heart and sit in soli­ internalized it totally into the very core in regard to those obligations, and tude in the chambers of his spirit and he of their being. For them, limud hamus­ what he can do to improve. Little by lit­ will bring the hand of his rebuke into his sar was intensely moving, elevating tle these thoughts and emotions pene­ soul, but [he must} not rely on the rebuke them to ever greater heights of sancti­ trate within, generating a slow but of the rebuker alone (Shaarei Teshuva, ty. And when they taught the impor­ continuous pattern of spiritual growth.3 2:26). tance of mussar, they drew from their Nevertheless, Rabbi Yisroel Salanter Secondly, even within the limits of its own experience to describe its great taught that these efforts and their realistic potential, we often count on potential. Those whom they touched effects can be significantly enhanced by mussarfor too much too quickly. We live plugged into that intensity and experi­ means of mussar b'hispylus - mussar in a world of instant gratification, enced some measure of it for themselves. studied with great fervor. Find an idea, where we anticipate immediate results But when we try to duplicate it on our a phrase, or a sentence that "hits home;' from our efforts. But this does not apply own we tend to fall dismally short, lead­ and ponder it intensely while repeating to the realm of spiritual growth. True, ing many of us to the conclusion that it over and over in a tune that flows from mussar does sometimes generate a rush "mussar just isn't for me.'' within. In this manner, one gets drawn ·------· of inspiration, which can carry us over 1'he truth is, however, that mussar 3 Here the Chazon lsh parts company with the some very difficult hurdles. But when we does not spawn instant righteousness. school of mussar, maintaining (Emuna Ubitachori expect that to occur consistently or to One cannot take his "piety temperature" 4:12) that someone with a coarse nature and base have a long-term effect, we set ourselves on a daily basis, checking to see if he is character is not likely to respond to words of nius­ sar and must elevate his soul through the study up for severe disappointment. somehow different than he was the day of Torah. His description of such a person, how­ These mistaken notions are partial­ before. Even those wonderful surges of ever, limits its application to only the n1ost moral· ly the result of oversell. Who, after all, inspiration do not last very long. The ly deficient.

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""···------··-·------"------· ------· ------~-----··--- 24 The Jewish Observer, September 1999 further and further into the material he's between ourselves and our consciences, to be inspired under those conditious. studying, creating an ever-deepening analyzing every move we've made. Many people try to tap the resource of impression upon his heart and soul. Rather, as I was told by the Telsher Rosh mussar study, only to find it uninspiring Hayeshiva, Rabbi Mordechai Gifter, - even downright boring. To a large degree, ou're ignoring the other side of N"D>?l!J, we need to set specific times for this is because the classic mussarworks are the coin - the pitfalls of mussar. such soul-searching activities, and to lay written in a deceptively simple style and Y I hate to say it, but many so­ them aside the rest of the day. In this do not seem intellectually stimulating. But called baalei-mussar are not easy to tol­ way, we can avoid turning the mussarwe that is a gross misconception. Many of erate. They walk around with an air of learn into an instrument of vice rather these authors are the san1e giants of eru­ superiority, and they seem to get very than virtue. dition whose halachic works we study so wrapped up in themselves. intensively, and their brilliance is inher­ 'fhese are undeniably serious con­ have a problem with many of the ent in these volumes, as well. Indeed, these cerns. The commitment to self­ classic works of mussar; I simply do works are wellsprings of wisdom and improve1nent can often lead to feelings I not find them interesting. It's hard insight concerning man's nature, his of superiority. It is tempting for a per­ son to think, 'Tm doing all I can to fix my flaws, while other people don't even bother to try. Clearly, I am more Picture What Your righteous than they are:' And the arro­ gance this creates is indeed hard to take. Money Could Buy Furthermore, mussardoes demand seri­ The pride and joy on a young kallah's face. ous introspection and self-awareness. Her chatim is devoting his life to learning Torah. And thinking about oneself is habit­ Picture what your money could 6uy. forming, leading easily to gross self-cen­ Peace of mind for a father recovering ~om surgery. teredness. What's more, the proper His medical needs have been arranged, measure for this endeavor is very hard his family provided for. to define, as it varies greatly from per­ Picture what your money could 6uy. son to person. A loftier individual is able Comfort and support to a Kolfel family of eight. to scrutinize his deeds more closely - Their commitment and devotion to Torah a reality. is in fact expected to do so - without These families and countless You can make getting overly involved in himself. The others living in Eretz Yisroel face a difference. rest of us have to be more cautious. many hardships. But they are not You too can join the The truth, however, is that anything alone. For over 8! years Ezras Torah good works of has been helping. As the leading potent enough to offer significant ben­ Ezras Torah. You can Tzedaka helping Talmidei Chachomim help the young efits also has serious dangers. The solu­ and their familiesto survive. Kai/ah prepare for her tion is not to abandon our quest but to Ezras Torah provides financial marriage, the Kolle/ family feed their assistance in a respectful and make sure that we direct it properly. children.the orphaned child receive loving care.the dignified manner. struggling immigrant begin a new life. Mussar itself is equipped to deal with the Thousands of Bnei Torah Your support will help us lo help them. first problem - as long as we are hon­ and their families carry the torch of Your money could buy joy, comfort, relief and sustenance ... Torah for all of us. Because of their est enough to acknowledge the danger the necessities needed for thousands of B11ei Torah to pure and idealistic lifestyle, our continue to lead their ho!y lives. of becoming conceited. Much of mus­ worlds a better world. They help sar is about how to view and relate to sustain us spiritually. They need others properly - which includes a our help to survive physically. strong measure of humility. If we take care to emphasize that aspect sufficiently, SEV;Nmm ITzRt\s !21RAH.] ANNMRSAR' we will surely feel its effects. TH£ HUMAN SIDE OF TORAH PHILANTHROPY The second issue requires exercising 1 YES, I WOULD LIKE TO HELP EZRAS TORAH. ENCLOSED IS MY TAX·OEDUCTIBLE CONTRIBUTION FOR: , .. ,, 1 judgment. In pursuing regular mussar : 0$18 0$36 0$100 0$180 0$250 0$360 0$500 0$1000 DOther$__ : study, as well as the soul-searching and ~ Method of payment O Check rJ Visa O M/C O PJX Acc.#: Exp. Date: : self-improvement that it inspires, we 1 Please contact me regarding establishing an Ezras Torah Endowment Fund for a: D Free Loan fund ::I Medical fund 1 I I must be careful not to overdo it. Sure, 1 Please send me an Ezras Torah Halachic Pocket Calender & Guide to Synagogue Customs, for this year (checked IIBlow, contribution enclosed). 1 we have to weigh our decisions carefully : O Pocket-sized Hebrew Luach ;::i Pocket-sized English luach D Wall-sized Hebrew Luach l and to think before we speak or act. But : Name ~ : Address : once it is done, it's over. We cannot get 1 City State Zip Phone • caught up in a running dialogue : RHJO Make payments to: EZRAS TORAH 235 East Broadway New York, NY 10002 • 212-227-8960 : L------~

The Jewish Observer, September 1999 25 obligations to Hashem and his fellow man, find mussarineffective for another rea­ It is true that the great works of mus­ and the tools available to fuse the two. But son. The standards that these works saroften deal with spiritual heights and to appreciate their vision we need to study I demand of us are much too high. My standards that are far beyond what most them properly - carefully analyzing their first reaction is to dismiss them as unre­ of us consider realistic. The remedy for precise wording and seriously contem­ alistic. IfI manage to get past that and take this is to apply these timeless principles plating their ideas.4 Scanned superficial­ them seriously, I end up getting depressed to standards that are appropriate at onr ly, they often come across as very dry. over my own low level of spirituality. level. We need to ask ourselves, "VVhat are the pathways that lead to the behav­ 4 There are those - especially young students - immeasurably to my appreciation of that sefer, who have difficulty putting this idea into prac­ and profoundly affected my ability to benefit from ior and character described here?" Once tice. Their efforts could be greatly enhanced by other works of mussaras well. I have heard sin1- those are defined, every step along vaadim - mussar classes- in which these works ilar feelings expressed by others who attended those routes - at any level whatsoever are taught and studied in depth. When I was a those vaadim. - takes a person further in his spiritnal student in Telshe Yeshiva, I was fortunate to hear Another benefit of such vaadim would be to quest. Thus, for example, learning about such vaadim on the Mesillas Yesharin1 from Rabbi teach students how to apply the principals of n11~s­ Mordechai Gifter, N"O~Jv. Those classes added sar realistically to their level - as discussed below. the lofty heights of true selflessness can inspire ns to be a little less selfish and a bit more considerate - and to contin­ ue growing from there. In regard to the danger of discour­ agement, we need to apply the basic prin­ ciples of effective communications to our own self-criticism. When Yosef revealed himself to his brothers, they became ter­ rified and trembled before him. To calm them down, he told them, "I am invites you to register for its Yosef, whom yon sold to Egypt:' This 4th Annual Conference seems very strange. Was that the way to reassnre his brothers that they had nothing to fear from him? Wouldn't his "Torah Values & Mental Health mention of their deed prove to them that To RECEIVE A in the 21st Century" he was still angry? But the truth is that CONFERENCE his words were absolutely necessary. If •Singles And Shidduchim: Communal, he hadn't mentioned their deed, his BROCHURi, Halachic and Clinical Issues brothers would always have wondered when he would bring it np and use it CALL •Confidentiality in Mental Health and the Rabbinate against them. This way he cleared the air 732-363-2344 •Alternate Treat1nents: Herbal Medicine, completely. The basis for their fear of his Vitamin Supplements etc. revenge was noted - and dismissed. • Child Abuse Prevention The same applies to self-inspira­ tion.When faced with our flaws and lim­ Plus many other pressing issues confronting itations, we often process that recogni­ Orthodox Jews in the 21st century tion in ways that are counterproductive. DECEMBER .23-26, •Advanced Training Workshops "What's the matter with me? Why can't 1999 • ProtCssional and Personal (~ro\vth I control my temper?" Such an approach •Guidance on Major lialachic Issues is not likely to produce any positive • Nenvorking and Ca1naraderie resnlts. Others declare, "It's so terrible MAR.R.rorr •A Spiritually Inspiring Shabbat Program that I can't control my temper; I really mnst change." But this generates as HUNT VALLEY INN mnch of a need to defend one's behav­ ()utstnndin._q Rabbinic and i\fcntal Health Personalities ior as the motivation to change it. "After BALTIMORE, MD Rav Dovid Cohen Dr. David Schnarch all)" we say to ourselves, "I'm not really Rabbi Dr. Abraham Twerski Dr. David Scharff a bad person. Surely my faults are not Rabbi Yisocher Frand Dr. Jill Scharff all that awful." Rabbi Dr. Tzvi Hersh Weinreb If a person wants to improve his character, he needs to first acknowledge and accept his present position) rather

26 The Jewish Observer, September 1999 than trying to wish it away. "I have to face it; by nature I have an explosive tem­ CHEVRA OSEH CHESED per. I didn't create myself with that OF AGUDATH ISRAEL nature; I didn't ask for it; and it's not my fault that I have it. Thus, its existence says BURIAE PLOTS nothing about my overall worth and IN ERETZ YISROEL merit. But I do have an obligation to get Beautiful rooms, with kitchen facilities, in Interment in a,~h~ Shabbos Beis it under control." In this manner, the the heart of Boro Park, by day or week. Olam • Beis''!ihemesh inspiration to change is unhampered by Near Shuls, take out foods, etc. Profits to Jrite to: the dead weight of personal defenses. Mifal Torah Vodaas. ~f Alluaath Israel kay, I guess it boils down to this: Call (718) 851-2969 Studying mussar forces me to No T.V.'s 0 acknowledge my flaws, my shortcomings, and the obligations they create. That is not very pleasant or com­ fortable. Yes, it really does boil down to that. When we cut through all the excuses and face ourselves honestly, we come to real­ ize that our main resistance to 1nussar is the responsibility it i1nposes upon us. It obliges us to assess ourselves with bru­ tal honesty, and it compels us to i'011fy wirli ycmr firfp coufd' w1· take Dan to Amrricajortfie improve ourselves wherever we are l?Prrari011 tliar saved' fiis fft. Your foa11 am{ youryatirnce umif we reyaid it were a confort in our d'arkrst f1our." lacking. Neither of these demands are R'!fad Ovadi - Betar• (All the names have been chailg;d) very appealing, so we look for reasons

to avoid them. But our resistance does "Hm fr tfitjirst rpaymnit 011 ourfoan, My fiuiiantf, not really work. Deep inside we are well Mora«hai. iijl111lfly•wtking •gain. aware of our duties, and our efforts to I fi'!J" rlia1 we'""" 11etl yc11r Mp, tiut Its wontf'!Juf i

The Jewish Observer, September 1999 27

APPROACHING ROSH HASHANA Rabbi Yaakov Shlomo Weinberg

Nowhere To Go But Forward Think of an hour-glass timer with the advantage? I'm small-minded, so I sand running out - and I do mean run­ think about seconds. You know - a few osh Hashana is upon us once ning out - at the bottom. Each grain of seconds here, a few seconds there, and again - the start of a fresh new sand is a second. Sit there for a while and pretty soon we're talking big time. And Ryear, full of promise, full of watch your life - shall we say ebbing while we're talking big time, let's talk hope. But also, and just as important, away? Is that too shocking? But it is. long time. On Rosh Hashana and Yorn it is the end of the past year. What was "Quick!"you scream. "Get some scotch Kippur, we ask and pray for a long life, that year like? How did we use it? What tape and plug up that hole. Stop the a good life. But we all know that some did we accomplish? What didn't we sand! Get a hammer and smash the day, hopefully not before 120 accomplish that we would have liked to? clock! No more ticking seconds!" It years ... well, what then? If we don't Did we go forward ... or otherwise? In doesn't quite work that way, of course. take the hereafter into account - if we any case, ifs gone. The sobering fact is Time is life. You don't get a second shut our eyes to eternity, then life does­ that there is no way we can bring it back. chance with time. People speak about n't really matter. "But yesterday the We can't redo it. We have no choice but "killing time:' They're killing life. Have word of Caesar might have stood to go forward. you ever heard someone say, ((I've got against the world. Now lies he here." But first some questions one usual­ time on my hands"? Next time correct Gone ... finished ... kaput. Of course, ly does not think about: How many sec­ them - not ((timen - "life." There is so there is life after death, but then don't onds are there in a day- in a week? How much we can do with our time, those we need to know how to get in, what long does it take to go through a mil­ precious fleeting seconds leaking out of the membership dues are? Does any­ lion seconds? Do you know? If you left that sand timer: Torah, mitzvos, quali­ one get in automatically? ... Yes? ... the calculator in the office, ran out of ty family time, lending a helping hand No? ... Maybe? After all, aren't we paper, and are still wondering- there are to family, friends, neighbors and others. extremely careful about where and how 86,400 seconds in a day, 604,800 in a Climbing ... advancing ... striving ... fur­ we invest our money? Isn't this the week, and it takes approximately 11.5 thering ... developing our potential. ultimate investment? days to go through one million seconds. What stops us? What's the barrier? Shouldn't we consider what we're There are roughly 31,500,000 seconds in Procrastination. Or worse, doing? Shouldn't we do this now? Just a year (30,5000,000 in the Jewish year). drift ... whether out of a fear of failure in case ... just in case ... a person is "119 If one figures a lifetime of 70 years, a per­ or a desire for the easy life - perhaps a years old;' but doesn't realize it. son is born with roughly 2 billion, 200 combination. But, before we know it, And so the clock ticks on, and the million seconds to spend in whichever another 1,000 or 10,000 or 100,000 sec­ sand continues to trickle out, and our way he or she sees fit. But, here's the onds have slipped through our fingers, lives go on and there are 30,500,000 catch - the clock is ticking. Are you thir­ have disappeared through that sand seconds left till the next Rosh ty-five? You only have 1billion,100 mil­ hour-glass (now only half or perhaps a Hashana. The decision is ultimately lion seconds left. Does that still sound third filled) ... forever. Baalei mussar ours. We can spend our precious like a lot? Maybe - but seconds go by (masters of ethics) have a saying: "One time striving, improving, going for­ awfully fast. worries over a loss of money, but not ward, finding out what life is all Think of it in a little different way. over a loss of time. Yet money can be about. Or we can spend it as a couch regained, but time ... never.,, Rabbi Yaakov Shlomo Weinberg, a musmach of potato, watching TV, spending time Yeshiva Ner Yisroel, lives in Baltimore. He writes drinking beer, so to speak. But as we a weekly Torah column {Hebrew) for the Researching The Ultimate Investment get to the bottom of the beer mug, we "Chizuk Torah" publication. lie and his wife arc will see some sediment. We will soon the originators of the Dov Dov series. His arti­ So the question is, are we using our recognize what that sediment is. It will cle, "The Work of My Hands," was featured in JO March '99. days and hours to the best possible be sand. •

The Jewish Observer, September 1999 29 i " D.J

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INTRODUCTION before and during the war, in Vietzen, BACKGROUND Hungary, and highly regarded as a bbi Zvi Hirsch Meisels, J"~\, the Morch Hora' a (halachic authority) in the n Erev Rosh Hashana 1944, the Vietzener Rav, arrived in Chica­ years since. As Hungarian deportations Nazis rounded up all youths o after the Second World War, did not begin until 1944, Rabbi Meisels Ounder the age of 18 that were still and became one of the community's was still carrying on extensive corre­ in Auschwitz, to an empty lot behind the most prominent and beloved Rabban­ spondence with his colleagues in Hun­ barracks. There they erected a pole and im. One of the city's yeshiva elementary gary concerning a volume of teshuvos he attached a crossbar to it. All those schools is named after him, and anoth­ had issued before the war- Binyon Tzvi assembled - some 1600 youngsters - had er was started by his son-in-law, who - as late as 1943. After coming to Chica­ to pass under that bar. Those whose heads took his father-in-law's place as the Mara go, Rabbi Meisels compiled the corre­ hit the bar were to remain alive. Those D'Asra of K'hal She' aris Yisroel of Chica­ spondence he had managed to save, and too short were sent off to the gas cham­ go. Rabbi Meisels was also instrumen­ published it, in 1955, in "Mekadshei bers. Some shorter boys attempted to hit tal in the founding of what was to Hashem;' which included those letters the bar by walking on tiptoe - and were become the Hannah Sacks Bais Yaakov, from Rabbanim who had been killed al instantly bludgeoned to death. At the end the first separate girls high school in kiddush Hashem by the Nazis l!I"'. of the selection, approximately 1400 boys Chicago, in the construction and super­ The volume is preceded by a section were left standing on the lot and were vision of mikva'os and many other that details several horrific episodes that immediately imprisoned in a cellblock, aspects of Avodas Hakodesh. occurred in Auschwitz, and among to be put to death the following night. Rabbi Meisels was a renowned Rav them an extraordinary series of events They were denied all food and water, and --·------that culminated on Rosh Hashana were placed under guard of Jewish Rabbi Bechhofer is a Rosh Kollel at Yeshivas Beis 5705, 1944. May the translated excerpt Kapos. (The Nazis largely avoided the HaMidrash LaTorah, and heads its Torah i1n Derech Bretz program, as well as Morah D'asra we present here serve as a source of camp proper during the day, leaving it to of Cong. Bais 1(>filla in Chicago. He is a frequent strength and inspiration when we come the Kapos to run internally. They gener­ contributor to these pages, most recently"Good this year before the Heavenly Tribunal, ally, at this time, only gassed and cre­ Chumros, The Big Question," Dec. '98. 55 years later. mated their victims at night. We may

The Jewish observer, September 1999 33 assume several reasons for their reluc­ We present here a free translation of his record of that event. tance to come to the camp by day.) . Rabbi Meisels relates several moving incidents concerning these boys, and a Teki'as Shofar for 1400 Boys transport that left the camp that same day, Rosh Hashana. He then recounts Before Their Death how he had managed to smuggle a sho­ ... far into the camp with him. As the S.S. avoided the camp by day, he went from he youth in the cellblock- con­ come to blow the hundred kolas for cellblock to cellblock, and then to the demned to death - learned that them as well, so they might merit this transport, altogether blowing the entire TI had a shofar, which I had precious mitzva in those 1ast moments series of 100 kolas (blasts on the shofar) blown for other inmates. They began to before their death al Kiddush Hashem. over twenty times! call out, shouting and crying bitterly I did not know what to do. The assign­ from within their block that I should ment involved great danger. It was already close to nightfall, the evil hour when the Nazis would come to take the boys away. If the Nazis were to come suddenly, and find me in the midst of the group, there It hurts was no doubt that I, too, would be taken to the gas chambers. The Kapos, 1oc II renowned for their villainy, would not (once the S.S. arrived) allow me to flee. I me I stood there trying to decide what to do. I had grave doubts in my mind whether I was permitted to endanger my life-even if the danger might be questionable- for •,.i these lads to hear the shofar. Yet the boys • shouted, with bitter, heart-rending cries: "Rebbe, Rebbe, come to us for Hashem' s sake! Have mercy on our souls, and grant us, in our last moments, the merit of this mitzva! '' I stood bewildered - no one to It hurts consult, the decision was mine alone. Besides my own doubts, my son Zal­ man Leib '>n>l'J (Rabbi Meisels' wife and r seven of their ten children perished in the Churban) stood by my side and desper­ ately tried to restrain me: uFather, o. father, for the sake of Hashem, do not do this! The danger is clear. Chas v'shalom, I will remain bereft, like a lone flagpole It feels better just to talk about it. That's on a mountain top. Father, father, don't why we're here. Our staff is made up of caring and sensitive individuals. Together, gol Don't enterl You're not required to we can help you explore your options. We do so! You already blew today many can refer you to recognized professionals times, and those times, too, involved mor­ for counseling, legal advice or help in finding a safe environment. We can also tal danger. That's more than enough!" put you in touch with some very special He continued pleading with me, tears Rabbis. But in order for us to reach out to streaming down his cheeks. When I you, you must first reach out to us. looked at my son, my heart ached - he Confidential Hotline 1 . 8 8 8. 8 8 3. 2 3 2 3 was really correct. (Toil Free) On the other hand, however, the cries 718.337.3700 of the boys gave my soul no rest and Do it for yourself. (NYC Area) aroused even greater pity in my heart. Perhaps, indeed, the mitzva itself might Do it for your children. Shalom Task Force is a 501{cX3) charitablP org;iniiatio11 protect them at this perilous time. Sev-

34 The Jewish Observer, September 1999 era! bystanders, who had been moved by upon entering the sealed cellblock? It is none of us knows anything: where the the boys' cries, also begged me to enter only one of Hasherris wonders that upon evildoers brought our entire families; the block, arguing that there was still confronting a sea of young eyes, my ears what would be our own end; who ample time, that those engaged in per­ filled with terrible sobbing, with cries and would survive; and, in general, the forming a mitzva are not harmed, and shouts to the heart of the Heavens- that extent ofHashem's concealment of His other such arguments. upon this, my heart did not explode and countenance. I mentioned to them the I decided that, come what may, I shatter to pieces. They cried out: "Rebbe! Gemara in Berachos 1 Oa that even ifa could not ignore their pleas. I could not Rebbe! Mercy! Mercy!" and similar sharp sword is placed upon a person's yield to my son. I immediately began to phrases that my ears could not make out. neck, he should not refrain from negotiate with the Kapos. They stub­ Many of them had been my students and prayer .... bornly refused me entry, until I thought the children of my community. When I And, we know the interpretation of that it would soon be too late and the con1menced, '(Min hameitzar karasi ... - the words "Hashem tzilcha,''2 that just window of opportunity would pass. But From the depths I call out to Hashem," as one's shadow reflects all that a per­ upon the pleas of several individuals, the verse before the tekios, they all cried son does, so too whatever a person does and after the payment of a large sum and demanded that I say some words of inspires Hashem to react towards hin1 gathered quickly on the spot, they my own. They pleaded insistantly, and in a similar vein .... Today we hold the relented. They warned me, however, that literally did not allow me to proceed with shofar in our hands - even in such a I should know that if! heard a bell ring the verse. My overwhelming emotions dangerous place, in Auschwitz, with at the camp's front gate, indicating the struck me dumb. Any delay posed a great difficulty, literally preparing for S.S.'s entrance, at that moment my fate, threat, as the minutes were passing and the eventuality of death ( mesiras too, would be sealed with that of all the the deadline was fast approaching. Nev­ nefesh). Similarly, Hashem on high boys in the block ....Theywould not let ertheless, I gave in. should, so to speak, hold us in His hands me out under any circumstances. I began by discussing the verse: At that point, I went in to the boys, "Blow the shofar on the New Moon, on 2 Literally, "G-d is your shield"; the word "tzif' but I took one major precaution, and the holiday of concealment." How also means shadow, and the phrase can be trans­ lated: "G-d is your shadow." directed my son, Zalman Leib, to stand great the concealment is today, when in the camp's roadway to watch the camp gate from a distance. If he would see the S.S. troops nearing the gate, he was to run back to let 1ne know, pro­ THERE'S SOMETHltfij} viding a margin of safety I would then immediately leave the block - even in SUPERIOQ. the middle of the teki' os. '

My actions probably reflected, at that lU'60~SEC1ii,-- ,_ - "'. -- --"'"''·''"'""'-'-' moment,my lack of regard for my own life. Who in Auschwitz knew how many days he had yet to live? Everyday, thou­ sands and tens of thousands of our Jew­ ish brethren were slanghtered, or fell casualty to backbreaking work, dying like harvested straw. Our lives had no value. This mnst have been my prima­ ry motivation for my decision ....

THE DRASHA BEFORE TEKI'AS SHOFAR

here is the pen, the scribe, the editor, who can commit to W paper my heart's emotions 1Editor's note: The Rav's niesiras nefesh could be interpreted as falling in line with the actions of Elisha bal Kenafayin1, who publicly wore teftllin in spite of a Roman decree against doing so, and miraculously survived (see Shabbosl30a). In his modesty, Rabbi Meisels offers a different basis for his bold decision.

The Jewish Observer, September 1999 35 and extricate us from our current, hor­ experiencing serve to bring the advent Then another lad arose and said: rible situation. That is what we say (in of Moshiach closer.3 "We do not say to the Rebbe 'Yasher First Day Rosh Hashana Shacharis): At that point, l blew one hundred ko' ach' for his great mesiras nefesh in "Melech, z'chor echoz keren - Hashen1 blasts on the shofar. enabling us to fulfill a last mitzva, the should hold Yisroel {called keren] in His mitzva of tekias shofar. Rather, we all join hand: Bizchus l'tlwah lecha hayom THE LAST WORDS in blessing him that in this merit hakeren nora v'kadosh." Today, in BEFORE THEIR DEATH Hashem will help the Rebbe to leave this Auschwitz, an awesome and holy place, place alive and well." which has become an altar, by virtue of cannot stop writing. I must retell All those present shouted: "Amen, the sacrifices here of our Jewish for coming generations the great v'Amen." brethren .... ! mesiras nefesh and the holy words As I left, several of the boys came to Furthermore, we may gain strength I heard from these young boys short· me crying, tears streaming, asking from the knowledge that there have ly before they were taken to the gas whether perhaps I could provide them been fulfilled in us the prophecies of chambers. After l had completed the with a kezayis4 of bread, to fulfill, in Ghazal concerning the horrific labor teki'os and was about to leave, one 1ad these last moments, the mitzva of seu­ pains that will precede the coming of stood up and shouted, while sobbing das Rosh Hashana - the festival feast. Moshiach Tzidkeinu, as explained in all uncontrollably: It had been twenty-four hours since the holy sefarim - just as a woman "Dear friends, the Rebbetold us words they had been shut in the cellblock, experiences more intense pain as she of chizuk, about 'even if a sharp sword, during which they had had no food or comes closer to actually giving birth, so etc.' I say to you: We can hope for the drink, and it was their understnding too the travails and tortures that we are best - but we also must be prepared for that it is forbidden to fast on Rosh the worst. For Hashem's sake, my broth· Hashana. Unfortunately, I had no way 3 Just as when Yehuda was involved in causing of fulfilling their request, as it would Tamar to be taken out to be burned, Hashem was ers, let us not forget at the last minute to simultaniously involved in creating from Tamar's shout with kavana Sh'ma Yisroel!" entail returning to their cellblock. progeny, the illumination of Moshiach, so too And they all shouted with incredible Thus, this bitter day was for them a fast while we are involved in "Take her out to be strength, with tears and great fervor, the 4 Literally, an olive size-- the minimum amount burnt," Hashem is involved in creating the light entire Sh'ma. of Moshiach, who will speedily redeem us. to be considered eating.

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36 The Jewish Observer, September 1999 day; and fasting, they were brought to Name with clear awareness, I meditate was consecrated eternally for ultimate the gas chamber, may Hashem avenge on the truth of that which the holy devotion to Hashem. It is a day suited their blood .... sefarim state, that the time of year and reserved for all those who yearn to affects what transpires in the world. The sanctify the Name of Heaven in pub­ hen I recall that which my Midrash tells us that Akeidas Yitzchak lic with mesiras nefesh, just as Yitzchak eyes saw and my ears heard at (the Binding of Isaac) took place on the Avinu did when he was bound atop the W that place, at that terrible day of Rosh Hashana. This day, thus, altar on this very day.... • time, on the day of Rosh Hashana, how such young boys had the strength and courage to publicly sanctify Hashem's • ~udget. II The danger is clear. Chas v'sholom, I will remain bereft, like a Book a B category car in Israel and get a free double upgrade to a Diesel car in categoiy 0, saving up to 70% of your refueRing costs. lone flagpole on a For ltH1l!er detalls and reservations please oontaot: mountain top. Father, Budget Israel Fax: 972-3-4!389992 father, don't go! Don't Email: [email protected] USA: 800-4723325 Canada: 800-2688900 enter!" Offer is valid till June 30th '99 excluding 22.3-11.4.99 • *Based on minimum 7 days rental of car category A, excluding insurance. Quote tariff code OHi.

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AN ERA OF UNPRECEDENTED The first place to begin our analysis GROWTH is with a clear understanding of our con­ rough­ temporary society within the broader out our history, perhaps fashioned in the uring this past year, con1muni­ historical context of the Ga/us. We are mold of the Spanish Golden Age. ties all over North America n":J blessed with unprecedented, per­ Contrast, however, our own cultural Dwere reeling from heartbreaking haps even exp] osive, growth. explosion with the following description tragedies that befell kedoshim, holy One of the unique features of our era given by Rav Shlomo Alami, of Spanish korbanos- victims of fatal accidents or is that we are able to integrate ourselves Jewry towards the end of that era: illnesses. In their wake, countless peo­ almost totally and completely with the "The leaders and heads of the ple were desperately attempting to secular world economically, while at the community place themselves in the come to terms with the events and to same time insulating and isolating our­ courtyards of kings and gaudily dis­ determine what the Ribbono Shel Olam selves socially and culturally. And as play their wealth. They forget their is demanding from us. It is beyond our North America enters its longest peri­ Jewish roots and build extravagant comprehension as to why the particu­ od of post-war economic expansion, we, palaces. They purchase fancy horses lar kedoshim were chosen. What comes as a society, are being carried along on and wear the cloths of royalty. Their to mind is the pasuk "Bikrovai the growth wave. Mirroring the almost wives and daughters dress like queens akadaish ... vayidomAharon. I will sanc­ daily breaking of records of the Dow and princesses, bedecked in jewelry tify from amongst my holy ones ... and Jones Industrial Average and the NAS­ made of gold and silver and other pre­ Aharon kept silent:' But with so much DAQ are groundbreakings for new cious stones. They despise the Torah hurt felt in our communities, we per­ mosdos. Note our ability to "float" new and belittle humility and honest labor. sist in searching for an answer as to what 1brah projects without apparent suffi­ They feed Torah scholars with bread we are doing wrong. Why are there so cient funding or backing, yet witness and water, forcing them in great many tzaros in Kial Yisroel? them "take off" beyond the analysts' shame to beg from door to door to feed We are not gifted with prophecy, and most "optimistic forecasts." Indeed, their starving families." are incapable of interpreting puzzling, there seems to be an unending stream Fortunately, the spirit of our times is painful events, but some elements can of announcements of dedications of far more positive toward 1brah and its be assumed in the Jewish scheme of buildings and new institutions being scholars. things. 1 established to cater to virtually all seg­

i The Getnora con1ments on the prophet Yir­ ments of the Orthodox population. SO MUCH GROWTH, miyahu's lainent, "VVho is the wise man who Moreover, the Jewish literary field is YET SO MUCH PAIN understands why the Land was lost?" No one lush with an abundance of new publi­ could detern1ine the cause for Israel's exile to cations ranging from new sefarim, trans­ lso unique about our times from Ravel until Hasl1c111 Himsdf revealed the crucial weakness - that the Jews did not revere Thrah suf­ lations, children and family publications, a historical perspective is that ficiently (Nedarim 8la). Rabbi Elazar Shach magazines and newspapers. Even in the A tzaros seem to be increasing even N"\J):i\IJ, explains that even though the answer bold high-tech frontier we have inno­ as our commitment to Torah continues sceined to elude the wise, the prophets, and even vations in Torah chinuch with educa­ to grow. The description of Rav Shlo­ the angels, the Jews were still held accountable for this subtle, but fatal, shortcon1ing. The sen­ tional videos and tapes. We stage gath­ mo Alami is so very typical of a period sitivity of the neshan1a is so profound that it can erings such as recent tefilla assemblies in preceding Tochacha and punish­ even perceive a blemish or i1nperfection that is Yerushalayim and New York, and the past ment. .. straying from the path of the concealed fron1 the sharpest eye ... Perhaps the Siyum Hashas that ;l"llJ:J attract num­ Torah, degrading its honor, to be fol­ discussion that follows is thus in line with "Lev bers not witnessed in our midst since the lowed by a period of retribution. What­ yode'ah moras naf~ho - The heart knows the bit­ terness of its soul." days of the Beis Hamikdash. ever shortfalls our generation has, how­ To those of us who are veterans of an ever, a lack of commitment to building Dovid Hofstedter of Toronto is active in Jewish earlier era, both of these worlds appear and sanctifying the Torah does not co1nmunal affairs, notably as founder of Achainu, a kiruvorganization involved with Israeli school­ to belong to the realm of the unreal. So appear to be one of them. And yet the age children. one would conclude that culturally we tzaros persist.

The Jewish Observer, September 1999 39 Perhaps, though, we must alter our Pesach might enlighten the situation for "This" that sustains us refers to the perspective. To the Jews in galus - and us. threat of annihilation from hostile ene­ we are in galus - hard times are not an "Vehi she' amda la' avoseinu velanu. mies, which keeps us faithful to exception. They are part of what defines It is this that has stood by our fathers Hashem and the path of the Torah. and maintains our existence. The and us." To what does« Vehi- It is this" Reb Simcha added, however, that increase in tzaros, then, is not a devia­ refer? The simple explanation would "Vehi- This', is also connected to the tion from the norm, but rather a return indicate that ''this" is connected to that passage immediately preceding it. to the norm. For us Jews in exile, per­ which follows it in the passage - "Ve'acharay chein yeitzu birechush fect idyllic times are not normal. Maybe " Shelo echad bilvad amad aleinu gadol. Ve hi she' amda - And afterwards the really good times of "the year lechaloseinu - Not only has one risen they shall leave with great possessions." before last'' were not meant to contin­ against us to annihilate us, but in every Kial Yisroel is sustained throughout the ue. But what was the catalyst for change? generation they rise against us to anni­ galus by a combination of both the A comment by Rabbi Simcha hilate us. But the Holy One, Blessed is threat of annihilation from hostile ene­ Wasserman '.:>"~l on the Hagadda of He, rescues us from their hand." mies - the tzaros - and the rechush gadol, the large amount of possessions. While difficult times hold us togeth­ er and fortify us, affluence and pros­ perity rejuvenate and nourish us. The history of Kial Yisroel throughout the galus has been one of a continual cycle of oppression and hardship followed by" Ve'acharay chein yeitzu birechush ONEPLusONE gadol;' which then allows us to rebuild and grow again. EQUALS ONE Following this pattern, one could per- haps anticipate that after the horrifying An Old-Fashioned Guide for destruction of World War II, we des­ the Modem Jewish Husband perately needed a period of financial sta­ By Emanuel Feldman bility and tranquility in order to rebuild and heal our wounds. As we become more distanced from the era of the holo­ One plus one equals one: Bad caust, however, perhaps we should arithmetic, but it adds up to an expect a shift from the relative calm of excellent marriage. When two indi­ its aftermath towards a period of chal­ viduals marry, two separate -entities become one. lenges and obstacles. Yet "rechush gadoI'' is still very vital for continuing the lhis unique book explains howt~e process of rebuilding and dealing with blessing.in Ge~esis,. "and they--!!"'~ new challenges - intermarriage, kiruv and wtiman -'-- will become one" cart rechokim, kiruv kerovim, the fall of the tome true for you. Iron Curtain, etc., as we still stagger from the devastation of the holocaust. At the same time, we dare not lose sight of what might be termed details, or seemingly unimportant or hidden factors. For, as Chazal have stressed countless times, actions that appear inconsequential or trivial may truly carry great significance. In addition, deeds that may seem to be performed correctly may carry within them destructive elements, if the person, in his heart, is not fully committed to what he is doing.

40 The Jewish Observer, September 1999 THE CRUX OF THE ISSUE: For example, we may assume that mehatzolas nefashos - Torah study is A MATTER OF HEART building mosdos of Torah or chessed greater than saving lives." He con­ always assumes top priority; any per­ tinued that there were many rabbis erhaps this is the crux of the sonal considerations that individuals who were active in community affairs issue - a matter of heart. When might have must certainly take a back and not extensively involved in learn­ Pdealing with fellow Jews, we seat to our primary objective and ing whose support could be enlisted. might pause and examine our feelings should not stand in the way of There were not many Rabbanim who and attitudes towards the pain and suf­ progress. Doesn't every battle entail fering of others. Maybe our sensitiv­ some korbanos (sacrifices)? ities to others are not consistently as While that argument seems com­ they should be, and this is what is pelling, an episode involving Rabbi being demanded of us. Perhaps the Aharon Kotler '.:J''~t comes to mind: Ribbono Shel Olam is looking down at During World War II, the Vaad us, at our indifference to the pain and Hatzolah was desperately trying to suffering of others, and is saying solicit support and funds to save (kaveyachol): "Your brother is hurt, whoever they could from the fiery fur­ your sister is crying, and you feel no nace of the holocaust. Reh Aharon sorrow! You fail to empathize, you approached one Rav to enlist his sup­ can't relate to their anguish! Their port for the cause. This man was a • MAXIMIZE YOl/1/ CHILD'S l'orENTIAl tzaros are not your proble1n. Are you talmid chacham who had a rather • P!ilVATf SESSIONS AVAILABLE ON Au GRADE LEVEis IN HEB/lfw AND lNGu$11 not forcing Me to bring yesurim (suf­ small congregation and consequent­ • LEARNING IN A FUN A1MOSPHEllE fering) on you to teach you how to feel ly spent most of his time involved in • CLASSES G1VEN Am11 ScllOOl your brother's pain?" Torah study. The Rav respectfully • SEPAllATf CLASSfS FOii GnilS 6 Bo-;,; It is not difficult to understand the declined, quoting that Gemora in For More Information tendency to become somewhat desen­ Megilla: Call Mrs. Schonfeld sitized. After all, we live in a global vil­ "Gadol Talmud Torah yoser (718) 376-5545 lage. Increasingly, technology connects us to the world, and there is much of that world that one would like to block SOFER ON PRE.MISES out. Business today is more and more Satne day service on nHH)'.) &p'::PDn competitive, and requires speed and -~ bottom-line thinking. There hardly seems to be time or patience or an inclination for compassion in our competitive, hard-nosed world. But do we really have a choice? One of the hallmarks of our illus­ trious, if somewhat pain-filled histo­ ry from our very inception, has been our sense of sharing and our feeling .,.-./, of comn1unity. This, of course, has in1pact on all of our interpersonal rela­ IB~~*1f "<·· ::;. tionships - caring for the poor and needy, concern for shalom bayis, fam­ 'fefi"" ily and friendships, the way we con­ ._...... - ...... _;.. __ 'f.. , ...... duct our business transactions, and Sefori,,, even our avodas hakodesh. So1nehow, Enalish I'lll'IRU11 we have managed to keep our sensi­ tivities alive and well. We share the pain and suffering of the ailing, the displaced, and the bereaved. Yet on occasion, we become so consumed with auspicious, overarching goals, that interpersonal factors fall by the wayside.

--·--··------··--··--·------.-... ------·--··----.. ----·---···---- The Jewish Observer, September 1999 41 were immersed in learning at the Torah obligates us to do certain things abandon - or even as a sport? time, and therefore his Torah should even at the expense of that which is In our times there is much suffering not be interrupted, and they should most precious. in all segments of our society, among deal with the problem. "Lo sa'amod al dam rei'acha- Do not both the "have nots" and the "haves." Reb Aharon responded that while it stand by while your friend perishes:' Pain cuts across all social and economic is true that learning Torah is greater Sensitivity touches all aspects of our lines. Do we feel the hurt of others? Do than saving lives, if a person witness­ social fabric. In building and creating we share the sense of deprivation of the es someone drowning, the Torah com­ new mosdos Hatorah, are we cognizant "have nots"? mands us "Lo sa'a mod al dam of how it will impact existing mosdos, Now, one might say, ,.I already have rei'acha." One must interrupt one's their students, and the rest of the com­ enough on my plate. I have enough of learning and rescue a drowning person. munity? In rejecting or sending away my own tzaros at the moment. It is too Learning Torah is the greatest endeav­ talmidim from a mosad, do we feel their hard for me to handle other people's or that one can choose to do, but some­ pain and the pain of their parents? suffering right now. There are a lot of times we do not have a choice. The These considerations may or may not other people out there who are having change the ultimate decision, for that a much easier time than me. Let them is determined by halacha factors. True, assume the responsibility for others. I the course chosen may effect only sub­ am trying just to get by, to hold my tle changes and differences in the com­ own." munity, or in the affairs of individuals, But then tune in to the cry of Reb but we are all about nuances. Aharon. Do we really have a choice? If we feel obligated to criticize ven­ During the Great Depression of the erable Torah institutions or their han­ 30's, the plea that was much in vogue hala (leadership), do we do so only after was: "Brother, can you spare a dime?" (718) 972-4003 careful deliberation, after proper con­ Perhaps in our current social environ­ sultation, and with the greatest reluc­ ment it should be amended to: "Broth­ n-,.,~­ ,b::>tv • tance? Does it hurt us when we criti­ er, can you spare some pain?" cize, or do we do so with reckless Can you? •

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42 The Jewish Observer, September 1999 EARLY INTERVENTION

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ow many times have we said conscious of the chessed they are receiv­ we can then give them what they need this? Each one of us, at one ing may harm them instead of helping to win their war. • H point or another in our lives, them. A mitzva done in such a way that have looked at someone else as being makes people feel that it is a mitzva may a "nebach" or a "chessed-case.n We try damage their self-esteem. to help them by being friendly and Tamar's husband lost his job six showing sympathy and pity. But what months ago, and they were experiencing is it like for the person receiving the a difficult financial situation, with many chessed? How does the "chessed-case" large debts. A group offamilies decided to feel? Are we helping or hindering the collect money to pay off one of their large person by giving them an extra look of debts. They publicized that they were col· concern or pity? lecting to help a needy family in the neigh­ Daphne was once an energetic go-getter, borhood. Because the community was going here, there and everywhere. Sudden­ small, people were able to figure out who ly, she was diagnosed with a tumor in her the needy family was. Suddenly, people leg. When she was released from the hospi­ started giving them old hand-me-downs, tal, she was informed that she must stay off the butcher gave them leftover meat her leg and was restricted to a wheelchair. scraps, and the grocer gave them an extra Daphne would not let this get her down. discount. Tamar and her husband realized That first Motza'ei Shabbos she was home, that the community was trying to help, but MEHL CATERERS there was a function at her shul. When she now had two problems. They were poor, arrived, all she received was stares and whis­ and they were put into a new category ... Is Pleased To pers. Ladies began approaching her with "nebach." Announce pitiful looks in their eyes, "Hello, how are A person having a hard time, you doing? I'm so sorry to hear about this whether it be in finding a shidduch, a That We Are awful tragedy! How can I help you! Do you childless couple, a couple with a men· need anything!" they said, as they shook tally or physically handicapped child, Accepting Bookings their heads mournfully. a baal teshuva, ager, someone who has "I'm fine." lost a parent, or a divorcee, is not For Your Simchas As the ladies left, Daphne heard mum­ viewed as being in the category of nor­ bling under their breath, "Oy, nebach." mal. Usually, these people suffer from #:==== Daphne turned around, searching for her social ostracism - being treated as an friends. She spotted them, but they looked outcast. It is true that people have chal­ Terrace On The Park away, clearly uncomfortable, not knowing lenges of all shapes and sizes, but we Mehl Caterers what to say. are not diminished by our challenges. To the person on the receiving end, Rather than break us, our challenges Ntw Award Winning Clu/1 Fraluririg No•velle Cuisint ll'ilh Tradiliolllll Tast11 it is a very difficult role to play. In many - whether public or private, internal or cases, people aren't born into« nebach" external - can be the building blocks Now Availabl& Wilh largest Dance Floor In N.Y.C. situations, but «acquire" them later on. of our greatness. Our job is to over­ Chtcl: 0111' 25th Annivmaiy Spt

The Jewish Observer, September 1999 45 Anon mous

But what finally convinced me that my suspicions were justified was when I An Open Letter to learned that my married friends had come to their parents' or in-laws' homes to visit and did not even let me know they were going to be in the neighborhood. I My Single Friends wouldn't have expected them to leave their babies to walk over and visit me. I would have been glad to visit them. 1 know it may have been a long distance Dear Friends, ing from sadness, anticipating the loss of call for them to let me know in advance. First and foremost, I want to thank our friendship. I could not blame you, as But once they came in, they could have you for participating so thoroughly in my most of my married friends lost touch called to say hello, invite me over or just simcha. From the day 1 got engaged, you with me, too. chat for a few minutes. were the ones who were most actively I am writing to you now, to reassure Apparently, when some girls get mar­ involved every step of the way. You were you that I will not abandon you or allow ried they are concerned that if they the ones who arranged and planned my our friendship to dissolve. Why should I socia1ize at all with their single friends, it shower, and attended it from beginning be different will appear to end. from all the that their At my chasuna, you were the ones who rest?you may marriage is came on time, stayed until benching, and be wonder- in trouble. added so much life to the dancing. Believe ing. The Others may me when I say that I cannot wait to return answer is feel that the favor by dancing at each and every one that I cannot keeping up of your weddings, b'karov. forget how with their Our mutual friends and classmates hurt I was single who are already married came to the cha­ when my friends will suna, too; but because of children's baths married hold them and bedtimes) they came much after you friends drift- back from did. And because of car rides, some left ed away moving on even before the main dish was served. I from me. and getting know they wanted to attend the shower, And 1 simply established. too, but, you were the ones who actually will not allow myself to do that to you. Or maybe they are simply overwhelmed showed up. At first, they moved away to another with the adjustment to married life. When you cried at my chasuna, I sus­ city or neighborhood, promising to keep But whatever their reasons, I am not pect you were not just crying from joy at in touch. Then, they returned only one out going to let go of my friendship with you. my simcha. You may have also been cry- of every three calls I made to them. 1 am indebted to you for all you have I tried to be dan l'kaf zechus, telling added to my simcha. In addition, I care too myself they are so busy with a new apart­ much about our friendship to toss it aside Uncle Moishy, ment, husband and responsibilities. So I like a used tissue. Finally, I remember all Mordechai Ben David, kept initiating calls three or four times for too well how much I cried when my mar­ every one time they ca1led me. Whenev­ ried friends lost interest in me. and other top-of-the-line er we did schmooze over the phone, how­ So I'm not going to express a hollow Je\Vi.sh entertainers ever, it still felt like old times. wish that we keep in touch. And I'm not are available Eventually, my messages were not going to test you by asking you to call me. to visit returned at all. When we did speak, the I'm telling you that I plan on calling you conversation always turned to husbands as soon as Sheva Berachos are over to seriously ill and babies. That is their life now and I schmooze like we used to do, to hear how children fully understand. But when one married your day was, and ... to try to red you shid­ thanks to rnn :nnr.nll friend replied to my account of a funny duchim. rm»i:n':> episode at work with, "Oh, I'm past that Just because I'm celebrating my one­ ~ ::lj7.l.)' ., l"Q i'n'l'1 stage, now," I realized how much out of week anniversary in another two days _A Chessed project run by Agudath lsn1el mAmerica touch we had become. It wasn't so much doesn't mean I've forgotten what it was in con)Unctlon with that her comment hurt as much as it like to be single. SUld & Ding Productions To set up an appolntnrent, call: showed how little she could empathize Fondly, (212)797-9000 Ext.42 • M·F, 9·5 with a still-single girl. Your (just) married friend •

46 The Jewish Observer, September 1999 SECOND LoOKS Eytan Ehrbach

The ewish People: Firmly United or Almost Untied?

ecently, it seems as though every pared to think seriously about what Jew­ it does not exist in a vacuum. Instead, other week a new voice is heard ish unity is (and is not) and, ultimate­ it flows directly from an antecedent con­ uggesting that another of the ly, wherein lies its significance, there is ception of Jewish peoplehood and, in long-standing sacred cows of Jewish life the risk that it will become what none turn, is a vehicle for the actualization of be put out to pasture. The once of us wish it to be: a hollow slogan. that abstract concept in the here-and­ unspeakable, indeed unthinkable, view Of what, then, does Jewish unity truly now. Ever since Sinai, Jews have known that intermarriage should be not only consist? And, what makes that unity so that they are not just another nation condoned, but encouraged is now precious as to warrant making sacrifices among nations, but a covenantal com­ championed by a well-known journal­ to achieve it? munity chosen byG-d. Our charge is to ist in a mainstream Jewish publication. It has often been observed that Jews use the Torah He gave us to create a My hunch is that the only noticeable have a peculiar preoccupation with model of knowing and relating to G-d repercussion of this was an increase in ensuring their continuity, unlike other for all of humanity to emulate. Com­ the number of speaking engagements he cultures and nationalities that obligingly mitment to Jewish unity expresses a has since booked with Jewish groups. disappear into the proverbial melting recognition of all that we Jews share: an A noted sociologist proposes a multi­ pot. Yet, equally unusual is our exalta­ immutable bond with G-d, and a past, billion-dollar campaign to woo non­ tion of unity to a degree far in excess of present and future rooted in Torah. Jews to Judaism. The response? Major other groups. It is precisely because Jewish unity is Jewish philanthropists and communal One does not hear impassioned calls an expression of things so much deep­ leaders convene at the Museum of Jew­ made for the warring factions in North­ er than a shared fondness for certain ish Heritage to study his proposal. ern Ireland to bury the hatchet for the foods or cultural pursuits that the con­ In this atmosphere, where so little sake of Irish unity with the same fre­ cept resonates so profoundly within us, seems to be Jewishly non-negotiable quency that Jews do so regarding intra­ however far from Jewish tradition we anymore, is there any concept that still Jewish disputes. Nor are schisms with­ may have strayed. The Jewish heart sens­ commands unquestioning fealty, is in Protestantism met with exhortations es, even if it can't articulate it, that we there any notion whose very mention to focus solely on that which unites, must carry on through history and that seems to foreclose rational inquiry ~ rather than divides, those sects in the it is that mission that connects us all on Here's one candidate - Jewish unity. way such pleas are regularly made the most fundamental level. That Jewish unity is a foundational amongst the various camps within the The rub of this all is, however, that element of Jewish belief and a goal well Jewish community. as Jewish life drifts progressively further worth working towards is certainly from its historical moorings, Jewish beyond question. But unless we are pre- Unity: Not in a Vacuum unity is, sadly, reduced to just another pedestrian assertion of ethnic pride. Mr. Ehrbach, who lives on Long Island, is active here's a good reason for the dif­ When Jews lose an appreciation of their in Jewish communal affairs in the Greater New chosenness and become attenuated York Area. His Second Looks, "Postcards from the ference. While Jewish unity is Edge;' was featured in JO, May 1999. Titself a noble and important goal, from an understanding of G-d as both

The Jewish Observer, September 1999 47 the Author of Torah and the guiding UNITY: NO ROOM FOR COMPROMISE hand in history, Jewish unity perforce • ceases to be a manifestation of our his­ nless we are onversely, it should be readily torical calling. It then becomes an idea apparent why a classical con­ in search of a justification, and almost Uprepared to think C ception of Jewish unity renders anything will do ... an upsurge in anti­ untenable many compromises in the semitism, an affinity for blintzes and seriously about what Jewish communal arena. Under that overstuffed deli sandwiches, a nostalgic Jewish unity is (and 1s conception, unity is, at once, both a longing for I. B. Singer and Second reflection of and a medium for nur­ Avenue theater. not) and, ultimately, turing the existential character of the The same is true when Judaism Jewish people as a nation dedicated to comes to represent the empowerment wherein lies its performing and teaching G-d's will in of the individual as the arbiter of what society. Clearly, then, to be party to he or she "feels commanded in;' as some significance, there 1s accommodations that severely under­ contemporary theologians like to put it. the risk that it will mine or flatly contravene that Divine At that point, the idea of a Kial Yisroe~ will, all in the name of Jewish unity, united in history and destiny and insep­ become what none of is counterproductive and, indeed, arably fused to G-d, His Torah and each oxymoronic. other, is replaced by a loose confedera­ us wish it to be: a As educated Jews know, halacha tion of individuals shopping the super­ exhibits a remarkable flexibility, and market of religion to find the beliefS and hollow slogan. there are times when the Jewish com­ practices that "work for me." In a monweal makes accommodation not recent address on the growing privati­ only appropriate but desirable. In the zation of American Judaism, political • case of the pluralism issue in its vari­ scientist Charles Liebman described ous forms, however, defining issues of this phenomenon in detail. He noted Jewish identity and belief are at stake. that "[with an] emphasis on the self and not inspire many to make the sacrifices Rejection of compromise on these its realization - oddly interpreted as a necessary to achieve it. To be sure, there matters does not render Jewish unity 'religious' quest- rather than on oblig­ will be ongoing pronouncements of loy­ a regrettable, albeit necessary, casual­ ations transcending the individual, ... alty to Jewish unity and its progeny: plu­ ty of adherence to principle. Rather, it responsibilities toward abstract collec­ ralism, tolerance and diversity. But when is the clearest possible affirmation tivities such as the Jewish people ... real issues, like conversions in Israel, arise, that the source of that unity is in the decline in significance:' they will require hard choices, like allow­ timeless verities of G-d and Torah, not Its not hard to see that these vastly ing a single standard to prevail in order the temporal vagaries of ethnicity and altered understandings of Jewish unity will to preserve the unity of our people. culture. •

SEASONS OF MAJESTY: Days of Awe; Days of Joy This year bring a new dimension of awe, splendor, joy, and radiance to your Rosh Hashanah, Yorn Kippur, Sukkos, and Simchas Torah. ELUL: Attaining Nearness to G-d • Rosh Hashanah: Anniversary of Creation• Scriptural Read­ ings and Mussaf Benedictions of Rosh Hashanah •The Ten Days of Penitence • Kol Nidrei Eve and the Teshuvah Concept• The Soul-Searing Tefillos of Yorn Kippur • Sukkos: Festival of Joy• Shemi­ ni Atzeres/Simchas Torah - Avodah MeAhavah • Relevant Yorn Tov Narratives • Thousands of Footnotes and Source References • Extensive Indices. Rabbi z7chariah Fend el

48 The Jewish Observer, September 1999 Rabbi Aaron Brafman

insistence upon the autonomy of the grace of the athlete, the profound individual that has made shambles of vision of the consummate artist come s the chinuch that we received. He analyzes alive in the statuary, the the difference between rights and stimulating debates, the freedom from a secular drama, the poetry and view and that song; they all added up to of the Torah, an ethos alive with examining the charm and promise. difference Thousands of our best Of Parents and Penguins, between individ­ youth were mesmer­ by Rabbi Moshe Eisemann ual dignity and a ized. They forsook us concept of honor in droves, pursuing that exists in the what they perceived t came in the mail like many other Torah, as well. As a as a spirit-cleans­ organizational mailings, and I put it backdrop to today's ing freedom. May I in the pile with the rest. But the title, confrontation with G-d forgive them "OfParents and Penguins:' did catch my society, he analyzes and their myopia. eye, as did the name of the author, Rabbi uses as a guide the situ­ The whole Moshe Eisemann, whose works I've read ation at the time of the thing sounds before. In the few days between the end Chashmonaim. After the dreadfully of the z'man (spring semester) and the victory and retaking of familiar, beginning of my summer yeshiva, I the Beis Hamikdash, the doesn't it? decided to look at the book. After a few Chashmonaim gave us the There minutes of reading, I was hooked; I lit­ mitzva of ner Chanuka with was only one erally could not put it down. its stress on beauty - hiddur thing to do. Beauty had to You enter a world of intelligence that mitzva. Regarding this, Rabbi be fought with beauty. The military is both poetic and profound. Rabbi Eise­ Eisemann writes: victory would have been almost point­ mann is capable of moving from a schol­ Why the stress on beauty on just less if, in the end, we would not have arly analysis of the grammar and defi­ this Yorn Tov? There are probably been able to hold on to our searching nitions of words in the Hirschean many explanations. The following youth. They had to be introduced to tradition, to the demanding n1ussar of occurred to me this year. the splendor of holiness. Their search the Gra and Rabbi Yisroel Salanter, to the The struggle which we undertook for beauty was to be encouraged, but Chassidic insights of Rabbi Tzaddok against the Yevanim was one in which shaped to find the eternal rather than Hakohein of Lublin. beauty was the prize. Hellenistic cul­ the ephemeral, the authentic rather The sefer makes you think through ture was well nigh irresistible. The than the ultimately spurious. many of your ideas about parenting and all of your social attitudes. After sever­ You can! Just call al introductory chapters, the titles all begin and end with "Taking ____ ''1 wish I could The Yit:t:i Leibel Seriously;' and he talks about relation­ Helpline. ships, galus, money, time, and prayer, Hou RS: among other topics. speak to a Monday~Friday ...... 8am -12pm Rabbi Eisemann is poetic in his Monday-Thursday ...... 8pm -11 pm imagery, yet direct and very blunt as his Sunday ...... 9am-I2pm,9pm-11pm Extra hours Sat. night ...... 7prn - 9pm ideas penetrate your defenses and enter frum therapist your heart. Rabbi Eisemann begins by •· ... Zf~-c:El~L:~f:NOW analyzing the malaise and great chal­ ...... ··•••· (7l8J4:i5-7669 lenge of our age: on the phone Chicago ...... (800) HELP-023 "The theme of individual autonomy Lakewood ...... (732) 363-1010 is perhaps the most important theme in Cleveland ...... (888) 209-8079 the world view of modernity." It is the without giving Baltimore ...... (410) 578-l l ll 'Morris, Union, Essex & Middlesex ·------·------Rabbi Bra6nan, menahel of Yeshiva Derech Ayson counties in NJ ...... (877) 4-LEIBEL of Par Rockaway, N.Y., is a frequent contributor my name.'' For addiction problems call our addiction to these pages, most recently with "Where Are We therapist, Wednesdays 11:30pm to 1:30am Heading?" JO Oct. '98.

The Jewish Observer, September 1999 49 That is what this little book is about. mass of insignificant nonentities. We THE INDELIBLE GALUS IMPRINT It attempts to describe a process that must never allow this to come about. may lead us, and through us our chil­ We are not here for our children abbi Eisemann is powerful in dren, to a life which is pleasing and and our children are not here for us. describing the situation of our admirable. Turn to the last chapter if you Each of us, fathers as well as sons, Rgalus in America. He begins by like, and read the section entitled In Bnei have our own wars to wage, our own quoting an essay by William Z. Low, in Brak. You will know what I mean. secrets to unravel. Each of us must Encounters:

ultimately struggle on his own; each <( ••• It is virtually impossible even for fter describing the parenting must create the harmonies and dis­ a cloistered person not to be aware of behavior of many species of ani· sonances which will set his particu­ the multicultural surroundings in ... the A mals and birds, he explains why lar and unparalleled life to music. To Western World. The secular radio, the we are not penguins. seek fulfillment through our children, newspapers, even contact and conver­ We began our analysis by won· to delude ourselves that in their vic­ sations with people who are not reli­ dering why, in our own parenting, we tories our own deficiencies are oblit­ gious or do not have a yeshiva back· are not exhorted to emulate the self· erated, to bask in their accomplish­ ground, must exercise influence. This lessness displayed by animals towards ments and thereby feel relieved from can easily be seen, for example, in an their young. the threats and terrors which haunt American yeshiva student when he is The parenting patterns of the ani­ our own battlefields is nothing but put in a different setting, say in a yeshi· mal world ought to teach us nothing travesty. va in Israel. His cultural attitudes from at all. They are prompted by the pri· We are not penguins and are cer­ eating to reading are American, and his mordial drive to self-perpetuation tainly not G-d. We are here because homeland in a deep sense is the USA. through the species, and lead to the we have a job to do on ourselves and He feels at home there, whether because total self-sacrifice of the parent to the for ourselves. Long, long before we get of baseball or business, food or news­ child. This can never be a model for to our children, we must educate our­ papers or politics. In a sense he is an us. Such an attitude would diminish selves. If our lives radiate beauty, our American who is an Orthodox Jew ... ?' our humanity, would submerge our children will learn that beauty is the He then continues with his own Tzelem Elokim into an anonymous stuff of life. comment:

50 The Jewish Observer, Sepfember 1999 Tucked away among all the com­ shut out the world indefinitely. The at all. At the end of the day it is no more forts which cradle us in our host coun­ music is playing on the rocky island and no less than a solid chunk of want­ tries, there lurk some uncomfortable and sooner or later it will penetrate our ing. It is desire made tangible. questions. These do not touch mere­ most lovingly and thoughtfully erect­ Why, asks R' Tzaddok HaKohein of ly on whether we prefer a breakfast of ed defenses. Our lives will have to be Lublin, is man, who in his physiology cornflakes or leben. With that we can set to music-the ultimate weapon in is so similar to the animal world, so dif­ live. Rather, they address whole con­ the battle for our children's souls. ferent from the animals when it comes stellations of attitudes: the questions to overindulging? Animals are not as we ask, the news that engages our he author is at his most powerful a rule sybarites. They mate as the attention, the ideas which stimulate us, when he discusses money, our instinct to propagate the species the traits we admire, the jokes at which Tattitude toward it and how we demands; they sleep as their body we laugh, the goals which move us, our should approach its use. He beautiful­ craves rest; they hunt and feed as their heroes and our villains, our fears and ly, based on Rabbi Tzaddok, analyzes the need for food makes itself felt. There our dreams. Do we think and feel "Jew­ underlying drive to excess that possess­ is no ambition beyond this. ish;> or are we some awful kind of es human beings, attributing its source How different we are! How fierce­ hybrid upon which an alien cultural in the specialness of our role in this world ly do our urges drive us! Why are just cluster makes a significant or even a The Torah's term for money is .,ro we, in all of G-d's wondrous world, so controlling impact? [ kesej). The word derives from the root prone to excess? Because, R' Tzaddok And as part of the solution, he ~"" [ kosoj), to crave. Every other object teaches, we are not animals. Our writes: in the world has intrinsic value. It is agenda goes beyond the filling of our We can occasionally create an envi­ what it is and needs nothing external physical needs, the assuaging of our ronment that approximates an ideal­ to give it validity and standing. Only hunger pangs, the perpetuation of our ized earlier one, and hope that its money has its significance defined sole­ kind. David sang of a soul thirsting for ambiance will nurture an innocence ly in terms of what it can buy. Postu­ You, of flesh pining for You ( Tehillim more familiar from another era. It may late an empty store and you may as well 63:2). To long for the everunattainable, work sometimes for some children. throw your wealth to the winds. Money the absolute beyond, that requires a But it is foolish to think that we can can fulfill desires, or it can do nothing faculty for infinite desire. There is

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The Jewish Observer, September 1999 51 never to be sufficiency, never absolute essays in and of themselves. Particular­ fulfillment. ly, his lengthy note about the role of This type of insight fills the book in competition (he's against it) in educa­ regard to many other topics as well. tion from the Torah perspective. Rabbi Eisemann's endnotes are a If you are serious about life and how goldmine of sources, many worthy of you live it, this is a must read. •

TITANIC TYPO

To the Editor: On page 29 of the May 1999 issue of YEsttxvA OF NEW HAVEN The Jewish Observer, in the article The Out-of-Town Mesivta High School "Titanic Lessons," the date of"D-Day" is listed as May 6, 1944. • Shiurim with the Rosh Yeshiva On the 55•" anniversary of the largest • Excellent Rebbeim military invasion in the history of • Superior high mankind, I would like to bring to your attention that D-Day was June 6, 1944. school curriculum I think, no pun intended, this is an • Attractive, spacious error of '(Titanic" proportions, com­ dormitories pounded by the fact that the author is • Pleasant recreational facilities a General Studies teacher. • Friendly, warm atmosphere FRED EDINGER New York City Prepare your son for the finest Yeshivos, advanced general studies and communal responsibilities. Rabbi Emanuel Gettinger"'""'°""· Rosh Yeshiva Rabbi Daniel Greer, Menahel 195 Norton Street, New Haven, Connecticut 06511 Approved by State of Connecticut Department of Education

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-··------···-·--·-----·------··---- 52 The Jewish Observer, September 1999 Editorial apology ing I can really do about it. itive action. Finally, he said to me: "You When the May issue was for1natted, I felt deeply hurt by the story (iron­ know, at the Torah Umesorah conven­ the mast-head and page-runners were ically, much more than my son). First­ tion, the Mashgiach of the Lakewood mistakenly marked June 1999. I called ly, I felt a slap was humiliating. Secondly, yeshiva, Rahbi Salomon, was so power­ the printer and advised him to change I felt that at least care should have been fully convincing about educating our every "June" entry to May, globally. Jn taken to administrate the punishment children with love and caring. Why don't the process, D-Day was inadvertently privately. And thirdly, I felt that a per­ you speak to him and see what he says?" reconvened to May. The error was not son should be made aware each ti1ne his Dutifully, I called the Mashgiach's the author's. NW child is hit in school. home and received an appointment to Feeling helpless, I called the Yitty speak with him. IF, WHEN, AND HOW TO STRIKE A Leibel Hotline, whereupon I was The meeting was well worth the trip. CHILD referred to a professional who is active I entered with two questions. First, is it in the field of child's protection. Over unequivocally wrong for the teacher or To the Editor: the phone, we tried to brainstorm an principal to hit the student? And sec­ As a concerned parent, I am grateful idea that would lead to constructive pos- ond, what could or should I do in my to Rabbi Finkelman ('"Spare the Rod'­ Please!" May '99) for bringing into the open tl1e issue of a teacher at school lift­ A LANDMARK WORK ing his hand upon our children. I OF TORAH SCHOI... ARSHIP recently had an experience which I would like to share with your readers. One of my children disclosed a cou­ ple of months after the fact that he had been slapped by his principal. More painful than the slap, he said, was the fact that it was administered in front of boys from a younger class. I was sur­ prised that tl1e principal did not inform me at the time of the incident. When I asked the principal what happened, he admitted honestly that he does not Also available by the some author: THE LAWS OF MEAT & MILK (HILCHOS BASAR B'CHAl.AV), remember. hardcover, 288 pages, $19.95 He also pointed out that although the faculty members of the school do not slap often, it is still school policy to strike when necessary, and that there is noth-

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The Jewish Observer, September 1999 53 The Once-in-a Lifetime Purchase own specific circumstances? I present, room or the principal's office. Thus, in that rou should never have to use: as simply as possible, so as not to dis­ that setting it would be wrong for a tort in any way his words, Rabbi Rebbi or priucipal to hit under any cir­ KAR.KA IN Salomon's response to these questions: cumstances. 1) One cannot say it is unequivocal­ 2) I can do three things to respond BRETZ YISKOEL ly wrong to hit a child at school, given to the circumstances at hand: the Talmudic, Scriptural and halachic a. forgive the principal (here the Call Rabbi Gavriel Beer for references that express the Torah's posi­ Mashgiach added that this would be a information on obtaining tion, that to hit the child is justified lesson to my son in self-restraint, to cemetery plots in Beth Shemesh under the right conditions. On the Amer­ counter the uegative impact of the slap and other locations in Israel. ican scene, however, when a child he received); receives a potch from his parents, he per­ b. be careful not to retaliate (as OJ J-972-2-641-1923 ceives it as an expression of hatred or the prohibition of revenge is fully rejection. The same is true in the class- applicable); c. if! can find a peaceful way for parents to influence school policy with­ out inciting or retaliating, I can do so. Upon reading Rabbi Finkelman's article, I thought that maybe a peaceful way to influence others would be to share the Mashgiach's comments in a public forum, and to inform parents at large that there is an opinion amongst our Torah leaders that it is wrong in our gen­ • Personal Counseling • Medical Referral • Crisis Intervention • Emergency eration to strike children at school. And •;;;;;.,;l •Advice and Segulohs (S'1,~)'0) Medical Funds with that opinion, perhaps as parents we •Prayer Hotline to Jerusalem can unite peacefully and influence our schools to eliminate any kind of strik­ ing of our children by a faculty member. And finally, to those principals and teachers who do strike- even if you have a Torah authority who encourages you 1469 42nd Street, Brooklyn, N.Y. 11219 , - Tel. (718) 436-0666 • Fax. (718) 972-2787 -1 have a plea: If you must strike, please do not slap on the face. Please do not strike publicly. And please make sure that the parent is told promptly each time it happens. Thank you for the opportunity to do something positive. NAME WITHHELD BY REQUEST Brooklyn FREE COMPUTER COURSE For Women Coping On Their Own (Widowed, Divorced, Separated) 30 Hours of Instruction - Day Classes For More Information or To Register,

54 The Jewish Observer, September 1999 LEGAL NOTICE BY ORDER OF THE COURT To victims of Nazi persecution and their heirs who may have claims against Swiss Banks or other Swiss entities relating to the Holocaust:

owned or controlled by a Swiss Entity. the Court appointed attorneys. Certain at­ torneys will apply to the Court for reim­ Swiss banks agreed to pay $1.25 billion All Settlement Classes include heirs and suc­ bursement of their costs, up to about .2°/o U.S. dollars to settle legal claims relat­ cessors of the persons and entities described of the Fund. Certain Plaintiffs' attorneys ing to the World War II era conduct of above. will also apply for fees, up to at most 1.8% Swiss banks, Swiss businesses, and the Even if you're not sure whether you are a of the Fund. The Court may award a lower amount. Most attorneys will not apply for member of one of the Settlement Classes, Swiss gOrJernment ("Swiss Entities?. fees, and counsel for the WJRO will not you should request a Mailed Notice and apply for fees or costs. Initial Questionnaire. For example, if you The United States District Court for the perfonned slave labo~ you may not know Getting More Information Eastern District of New York (the whether revenue or proceeds of that la· "Court? will hold a hearing on NOrJem­ bor were deposited with Swiss Entities; To learn more, fill out the request form be­ you may still be a Settlement Class mem­ low, call toll free 1-888-635-5483, or visit the ber 29, 1999, to decitk whether the Settle­ ber. website http:/ /www.swissbankclaims.com ment should be gifltn final apprtnJaL How and Wbm Claims will be Paid r------~ Nott that you may be included tflen if No claims process or Plan of Allocation has Send me the Mailed Notice you did not haflt a Swiss bank accoun4 yet been established. The Mailed Notic'e ex­ and Initial Q!iestionnaire. plains how you can make suggestions. and that this Settlement is different from the Swiss Humanitarian Fund. To receive further notice of a claims pw-. cess, and ensure that you are able to file a claim, you must either mail a request for Address------such notice to the address below, or com· Wbo Is Affected by tbt Settlement plete and return the Initial Questionnaire attached to the Mailed Notice. Gty ------You are affected by the Settlement if you fit into one of the following five Settlement If the Court gives final approval of the Settle­ Slate ---- ZipCode ---- Classes. Four Classes consist of "Victims or ment, a Plan of Allocation will be adopted Country ______Targets of Nazi Persecution" (any indi­ and the Fund will be disbursed. Not all vidual, business or group persecuted or tar­ Settlement Class members who apply will PrefaredLanguage ______geted for persecution by the Nazi Regime be eligible to receive payments. or its agents, because they were or were be­ This is NOT aQaimForm. Please mail this to: lieved to be Jewish, Romani, physically or If You Do Not Want to Participate mentally disabled or handicapped, and If you do not wish to participate in or be Information others not listed here.. ), AND who: bound by the Settlement, you must exclude Holocaust Victim Assets Litigation P.O. Box8300 1. Had assets on deposit with any Swiss yourself by writing a letter so indicating, to the address given in the Mailed Notice, by San Francisco, CA 94128-8300 bank, investment fund, or other custo­ USA. US-ENG-JOMA dian, prior to May 9, 1945, OR October 22, 1999. If you do not, you will be barred from prosecuting any legal action ~------~ 2. May have claims against Swiss Entities against Swiss Entities relating to the settled relating to assets looted or taken by the disputes. If you exclude yourself, you will 1-888-635-5483 Nazi Regime•, OR NaT be able to claim a portion of the Fund. www.swissbankclaims.com 3. Performed slave labor for entities that How to Comment or Object Scope ofRelease may have deposited the revenues or pro­ The Settlement of this case (In re Holqranst Victim Assets ceeds of that labor with or transacted that You may comment on the terms of the Settle­ ~ Master File No. CV-%-4849) concludes all legal ment by October 22, 1999. The Mailed No­ actions and disputes against Swiss Entities relating to fue profit through Swiss Entities, OR Holocaust, World War Il, Victims or Targets of Nazi Perse­ tice describes how to submit comments or cution, the Nazi Regime, treatment of refu&ees, or anr. re­ 4. Unsuccessfully sought entry into Swit­ objections. You have the right to appear at lated thing. The term "Swiss Entities" (or Releasees') in­ zerland to avoid Nazi persecution, or af­ the November 29, 1999 hearing in person cludes Credit Suisse and UBS AG {successor to Union Bank of Switzerland and Swiss Bank Corporation), and their ter gaining entry, were mistreated, and or through counsel, although you do not fonner and current corporate parents, subsidiaries, affiliates, may have related claims against any have to. and branches; the Swiss National Bank; other Swiss Banks; the Swiss Bankers Association; the Swiss Confederation (in­ Swiss Entity. cluding the Swiss government); all business concerns head­ Wbo Represents You quartered, organized or incorporated in Switzerland as of """" The Settlement affects other groups not October 3, 1996; and certain Other affiliates of Swiss con­ listed in this publication. For a complete The Court appointed attorneys as Settle­ cerns described in the Mailed Notice. Certain claims against various Swiss insurance companies listed in the Mailed description request a Mailed Notice. ment Class Counsel, and appointed Settle­ ment Class Representatives, including Ho­ Notice are not included in this Settlement. The fifth Settlement Class includes any in­ locaust survivors, the World Jewish Resti­ ~ The second Settlement Class also includes claims against dividual, whether or not a Victim or Target tution Organization ("WJRO"), and the Swiss Entities rela~ to "Cloaked Assets," which are as­ sets disguised by a Swiss Entity for the benefit of an Axis of Nazi Persecution, who performed slave World Council of Orthodox Jewish Com­ company or person associated with the Nazi Regime, be­ labor in a work site, wherever located, munities. You do not have to persooally pay tween 1933 and 1946. for careful attention to your individual needs, call us today! (914) 354-8445

The TAM Tape Library is a lending library of Torah Learning and Hashkofa tapes. 311.:11!1 Mn - "Come and We currently have tapes of - hear'', is the beginning of • Rav Avigdor Miller, Shlita many a Talmudic (mainly English, some Yiddish) argument. We invite you to "come and hear'' the • Rabbi Pinchas Jung, Shlita, thoughts, letters, and (English) talks of Maran Harav Shach, shlita, whose • Rav Emanuel Tehila, Shlita entire existence is (Hebrew, Stories about Ghazal saturated with the from the Gemora, for Children) lessons and reasonings • Rav Amnon Yitzchak, Shlita of the Tulmud. Absorb (Hebrew) the "Da'as 1/Jrah" of the Rosh Hayeshiva, shlita, The Library is located at as he deals with 9 Edwin Lane, Monsey, NY contemporary issues Library hours are changing after that affect each and Rosh Hashana - please call for details. every one of us.

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56 The Jewish Observer, September 1999 n:nv nl\?h To my goodfiiends Mr. & Mrs. Berish Fuchs Rabbi and Mrs. Nissan Wolpin and Mr. & Mrs. Moshe Fuchs and Rabbi and Mrs. Baruch Borchardt wish all of their friends and relatives:

~ 'n:i 'J)l"IJ o~::i1" o~m '1£11'::1 1r.ii11"1~11JT1:i~v 11::I1 ~i1~ . i''11i'li1 '17il tli11:JN t'l''>M 7":S't 1N1'1'N:Jl:l 11l:liN l::l'"1l"11l::l ):J . . Best Wishes for a n:i1v i1l:.l'nrn n:i,n::i 1l:.lnnrn 1:in::in n:i1v nw? Mordechai and Rechi Friedman Best wishes to all our.friends and Shmuel B. & Simi Friedman relatives for a happy, healthy and Cheskel and Meita G. Heimlich Yosef Sholom & Esther Wertheimer prosperous New Year Moshe Yaakov & Leah Friedman Yoe! & Sara Y. Schlesinger Mordechai and Ruchi Semp Phyllis and Chaim Shroot Better Health Fitness & Recreation 5302 New Utrecht Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11219 Brooklyn, N. Y. (718) 436- 4693

Best wishes to all my friends. relatives and Klal Israel for Mr. & Mrs. William W. Wealcatch a Happy. Healthy and wish all their friends & relatives Prosperous New Year. a Ksiva Vachasima Tova Dorothy Liebman

ll:.lnnn1 1:in::in n:i1v i1l"V7 1l:.lnnn11:in::in n:i1v nw? Best WIShes to all our friends and relatives for a Best Wishes to all our ftiends and relatives for a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year Mr. & Mrs. Chaim H. Leshkowitz Mr. & Mrs. Alan Jay Rosenberg & Family Mr. & Mrs. Yossie Leshkowitz Gardens, Y. . Kew N. il::l1P ill:l>l"1Tn il::l'l"1:l il::l1P ilr.J'l"1Tn il::l'l"1:l Best Wishes for a year of Mr. & Mrs. Israel Mr. & Mrs. Yossi Stern joy, prosperity Dembitzer and family . il).)11Wt il"1~ wish Klal Y!Sroel a Edison/ Highland Park. New Jersey for all ofKlal Yisroel n:i1v i1l:l'nrn il:J'n::> Mr. & Mrs. Willy Wiesner

1l:lnnn11:in::in ;i:::n'O i1lw? n::11" rnmrn mm:i roi::i We wish all our :::mvm iii'!ll' 111l:l1!1mn nw? jiiends and relatives :n" 7::>1 ;im:im ~ mu1-1 tl71:1 wv>r a Happy and Healthy New Year n1::i1 tJ'lw? 1::irn ". tl71!I ::l::l?::t imn nwv? Mr. Morris Eichenthal Levi & Davida Reisman 1T1'))11 N"T71!:1 ,.,Nl:.l :lii1 Brooklyn, New York

The Jewish Observer, September 1999 57 L'shana Tova Wishing all our dear friends from and relatives a Shana Tova, a year of Aryeh Akiva Wilson health and happiness Sephardic Congregation Evanston, fllinois Mr. & Mrs. Louis Glueck

1l:lnnn11::in::in n::i1v i1l'l?.'7 Best wishes to all our friends and relatives for a happy, healthy and To all our family prosperous New Year and friends and to all ofKlal Yisroel The Goldmark Group Mr. & Mrs. Yonah Blumenfrucht Mr. & Mrs. Nutti Goldbrenner Mr. & Mrs. Yisroel Blumenfrucht Mr. & Mrs. Shiya Markowitz

We wish our family &friends i1:11" i1l:l'T1M'I i1:l'T1:> ri:>i:i:i and all qf?~"W' 77:i i1:11" i1l:l'T11"11 i1:l'T1:> Yaakov Ho.ffman n:nP nr.i•nrn n:::i'l"l:i Mr. & Mrs. Menachem M. and staff 1n:ii:::i1 017'!! rmv Shayovich 1'ri-Slate Surgical Mr. & Mrs. Benjamin Katz &Family 409 Hoyt Street. Brooklyn. NY 11231 &Family

'1:::11P '1r.l'l"ln'l '1:l'l"l:l i1:J11' i1l'l?.'7 n:::i1P nr.i'l"lrn n:::i'l"l:i n:::iro nr.i'l"lrn n:::i>n:i from Avi & Renee Herskowitz Mr. & Mrs. Norman Freedman Yaakov & Bryna Bender Mr. &Mrs. Gitty, Chaya, Yitzchok and Roise DovidKohn and family and Family Kew Gardens Hills, NY Boston. MA

~.,.,:f; M:lW i1l"'7 Mr. & Mrs. Chaim J. L'Shana Tova ij71 ~~ m'l'ttJ i01:11 Banker L'Shana Tovah to all )l"1''1 ~·) ~, Dr. Robert M. :nmroi~ wish one and all a 1'<171, t>j?l:l • ,,,., Knepper and Family Peter Benenfeld i1:111' i1l:l'T11"11 i1:l'l'1::l Wtl1!l l'l1r.l

n:i1p nr.imrn n:::im:i The Shmuel Oelbaums lr.llml'll i:m:in i1:l11' nmn 1r.Jlml'l11:m:in n:l11' nmn Miriam & Mendy Profesarske Mr & Mrs. Lawrence S. wish friends To our relatives and friends Sora, Yos.sie, Ari, and relatives Bootin & Family Rabbi & Mrs. Labish Esti, Nissan, Elly & Rivky wish one & all a happy & i1i71T1l:l1 i1:11" i1l'V Becker and Family Staten Island, N. Y. healthy, sweet new year

.. --·--·--·--· -· ·--·-··· .. 58 The Jewish Observer, September 1999 To all ourfriends and clients: May prosperity andjoy be a permanentjixture in your home. Best Wishes to all ourfriends. relatives and clients for a Happy, Healthy Wishing you a happy and healthy New Year. and Prosperous New Year i '- • > Mr. & Mrs. Yitzchok Oberlander ISLAND ... SHOvVRCDM ~ll't lseac Oberlanderc;Co. RC. Avrohom Tikotzky 'ff//i,!J Certified Public Accountants 1663 CONEY ISLAND AVENUE, BROOKLYN. NY 11230 • (718)787-1000

Alan and Lisa Avrohom Yaakov, Rachel Bracha & Sarah Rifka Stern to all relatives and.friends of Los Angeles, California Wish all of their friends andfamily in Ins Angeles, New York, Lnndon, Dr. & Mrs. Sheldon Zinn MUwaukee and Israel Phoenix, Arizona 1r.innrn 1::in:>n n:m' nw? A Happy and Healthy New Year .

We wish all ourfriends, relatives, and Jews everywhere to all of our dear friends and relatives and to all of Klal Yisroel ;i:m' nr.i~nrn n:i~n:::i

Avi and Zisi Fishof Mr. & Mrs. Max Berg .

n::n" ill:l'l1rn n::im:i . Leshana Tova Greetings, 1r.irmn11:in:::in n:i1" ill'e'? to our family and with good health and happiness. i1))'WYI i1'7ll-U nl'V to all of Kial Yisroel :in' 7.n .nm:im Alex & Sally Lebwohl . Mr. & Mrs. Abish Brodt and family Akiva & Chava Last and family

i::m::iri il::tW ill'i!I? Mr. & Mrs. Charles il::tl'D ill'l!I? Richter To aU our relatives and.friends to all our friends il::tWitW7 Mr. & Mrs. Michael wish all a Mr.&Mrs. Mr. and Mrs. Jacobovits Joseph Sittner Simon Hexter il::tl'D il~Tlrn il::t'l1:> 50 Overlook Terrace# lE West Lawrence; NY. New York, NY 10033

Torah Alliance ofFamilies ofKids With Best Wishes for a ·•m::n::n nw ?nri with Disabilities wishes all a A Good Year Happy, Healthy, and .. Mr.· & Mrs. Leibish nMl1 n1~i:i rn-v Prosperous New Year The Schlessingers Rapaport TAFKlD t:Jr. Leonard Unger Norwich, CT and 1210Ave.N• • BklynN.Y.11230 Brooklyn, New York and Family Providence, RI. 718-998-7333

The Jewish Observer, September 1999 59 5760- 52nd Anniversary of the State ofIsrael - n:i11:ir.l'I n::m' niv May it evolve into an We thank YOU for choosing US as your #1 BROKER Eretz Yisrael al pi Torat Yisrael! DEERA HOMES & LAND May the whole world merit the Messianic era! where honesty & integrity come first! Henry Kreisel Mrs. Sarah Schwab Licensed Real Estate Broker • Monsey, N. Y. • (914) 425· 7484 t1nnn1 :in:in n:i1v nw? We extend to all ofKial Yisroel our sincerest wishes for a Alejandra, Michael & Tova n:i1v ill:l'nrn n:i,n:i Abramson Mr. & Mrs. Naftali Hirsch Los Angeles, California and family n:nv no.,nrn i1:J'TO L'Shana Tova To all our relatives andfriends Moishe & Feige Friederwltzer of Staten Island and Har Nof to all our people Mechi & Duv Fendel &family ofS'derot Pnlna & Yitzchok Wilk &family of Ranaana Sara & Miriam Perez Menachem & Lea Friederwitzer &family of Har Nof n>om::i 11~ 1:iw:i 1l'l'V l1l'111l11 i1:?1" nlW, n:i1ti nr.i,nm n:i,n:i Tracy& to all our relatives and.friends Larry Loigman Rabbi & Mrs. Josef Loebenstein Joshua & Daniel Vineland New Jersey

Reisman Brothers Bakery Wishing all of Klal Yisroel a happy and healthy New Year wishes a year of sweetness, joy and Mr. & Mrs. Stanley Treitel prosperity to all ofKlal Yisroel &Family 718-331-1975 Los Angeles, California

Beged Yad LeYad Jerusalem/Klryat Sefer !il:J11' 1'IW7 il:l1" ilr.l'l"llil il:J'l"l::> Used Clothing Centers and EU.EN LEBOWICZ, CSW in conjunction with l"ad Eliezer Best wishes to all our friends Working with Individuals & Families wishes its devoted friends from coast-to-coast: Klal Yisroet Children-Adolescents, Adults California thru N. Y. and Canada thru Texas. and continent-to-continent: Australia, S. Africa, Europe Sholom and School-Related Problems. Substance Abuse A hearty Kesiva Vachasima Tova Leah Mark 718-253-5535 1r.innrn 1:in:in n:i1v itl'l!h n:i1v nr.i,nm il:l'n:J Best Wishes for a n:i1v nr.i'nm il:l'n:i To Rabbi Yosef C. Golding To alt our clients, friends to our friends, relatives, and Rabbi Nissan Wolpin and relatives andKlal Yisroel Yisroel & Rochel Golding Mr. & Mrs. N. Benjamin Perlman, Mr. & Mrs. Harry Fried C.P.A. & and Family Son Los Angeles. Calif.

1r.innrn 1:in:in n:i1v nw? n::n" i1r.l~nrn n:i~n::> Leshanah Tova to all from Mrs. David Lenovitz Mr. &Mrs. Ephraim & Chaya Rochel &Moshe Isaac Kirzner Nierenberg and Family Brooklyn, New York Dallas, Texas

60 The Jewish Observer, September 1999 i"1':l n::i1v nr.i~nn1 n::i~rc Greetings from THE WEISS-RYES.KY FAMILY & A YEAR FULL OF SIMCHAS of East Northport, NY EUTE CATERERS THE KATZ FAMILY Kenneth H. Ryesky, Esq. Under the Exclusive Supervision of Dr. Tamara E. Weiss K'HALADATI:l JESHURUN Hayim Ryesky 718-337-6600 516-371-6600

To our ftiends,family, and n::nv i1r.l'>l1T1'1 n::i.,n::> May the blessings of good health, ftiends-to-be in Klal Yisroel, peace, and happiness fill your home at this new year and always. Aharon and Shayna Subar j?'>ilj? Ci11::t~ n~r.l and family 1nn!::l'.?.>r.l1 Bassman Family

L'Shana Tova May we be "zoche" to il":l a year ofpeace and n::n-o nn.,rm1 n::i.,n::> i1l1" ;iw'; from the 'mi'll' 'h::l; i1V1nr.!1 good health to our family andjiiends Heigh Family, Menachem and (ie: ?NiW> ';>?:i 'l'lN)) Mrs. Belle Young Judith Rottenberg Cincinnati, OH &Family Feivel & Helen Muller

n::i1-o nn.,nrn n::i>n::> To all our fami7 and friends Rabbi Dr. & Mrs. Yosef Integrated Marketing Thanks for al the chizuk Rosenshein & Family 225 West34thStreet, Suite 1317 i1:Jl'O illJ'Ml i1::l'n::> !l1:11P i'1l1ll? wish all of Israel New York, NY 10122 Rabbi & Mrs. Mordechai Maury Deutsch L'shana Tova Menachem Lubinsky, Yaroslawitz (Yari) & Family President St. Louis, Missouri

1::ircn n::i1v ill'IV7 Gain control of your anger !i'1:11P i'1l1ll? May you all be written and this year. Michael and Alison sealedfor a good year. Read "Guard Your Anger" Mr. & Mrs. Reuben nana, Dahlia, Targum/Feldheim Avi & Bayla Sage The Weinbergs Y. Rosenberg Box 82, Staten Island, NY I0309 Passaic/ Clifton. NJ of Cincinnati, Ohio

n::iw nw? To all our family Shana Tova! n::iw nw? andjrtends Mr. and Mrs. Avi & Devorah Rabbi H.M. Felder "L' shana Tova' Norman Parnass from Dienstag & Family and Family and Family The Galatans

"L'Shana Tova" ?i'? Tlr.wl~'l7 Moshe Adler from Akiva and Judy .. ,~ tim::m i:i ilr.l'nl" Michael SChiff wish all our Friends Hirth and Family i1l1' ~ n11n i1r.>?n .,.. , Teaneck, NJ and Chaverim ofA.I. a Passaic, New Jersey Menachem & Toby Feldman & Family n:i1p nr.i>nrn n:im:i

•. ... ·-·- The Jewish Observer, Sepfember 1999 61 ir.irmn11:in:>n n:ii" nw? inN1 inN 7::i:i ,~.,.,.,., 7::>7 Best wishes n:ii" nr.i,nni n:i'>n::> to all our friends and relatives tl'ti"'T:ll 71?.' j1!Jt) iin:i 'C't'>n7 in7i-t7 for a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year 'C't?rnl:l '"~,. i"Wl:l Mr. & Mrs. Avrohom Schonberger inn!J1?)l:li m,:in, and Family

Greetings from Our very best wishes for a Jewish Community Council of Shana Tova to Greater Coney Island, Inc. Rabbi and Rebbetzin 3001 West 37th Street, Brooklyn. Nisson Wolpin New York 11224-14 79 • 718-449-5000 and the staff of The Jewish Observer Providing Supportive Services to the Frail Elderly, Vocationally Disadvantaged Poor, Refugees c:nd from the Jewish Resource Center Educationally At-Risk Youth of New York City Isaac Bacon, Ph.D. Rabbi Moshe Wiener Arnold and Rita Weiss President Executive Director 41 O Main Street • Buffalo, NY 14202

Moshe M. Friedman, P.E. il::t1V i'IM L'shana Tova Architectural Engineering Dr. Michael and Etta (718) 382-1702 Korenman and Family Hugh Hoffman (914) 356-3999 Fort Worth, Texas

To All of Our n::iw nr.:imrn n::i•rn i't:n'O nr.:mtn i1J'ro Best wishes to all our clients for a happy, Family, Friends, and Kial Yisroel to all our relatives, healthy and prosperous new year friends, and~ '7'::> ir.imrn i::in::in n::iiv i'1W? ASB Banking & Insurance Avrohom & Hindy Rabbi and Mrs. Yosef Moshe Aaron S. Buchler Rand and Family Passaic, NJ Augenbraun Toronto, Canada 973-779-3311

Best wishes to all our friends Rabbi & Rebbitzen Wolpin and relatives for a Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year May Hashem grant you the good "L'Shana Tova" health to continue your good deeds Mrs. and Mrs. Moshe Katz Yehoshua Rosebery Lawrence, L.I. Dr. & Mrs. Lawrence Slater

May the Year 5760 We would like to wish bring good news and brochos to .'mi1!I' 7;1; n:i1P nr.imrn n:i>n:i all of Klal Yisroel a Shana Ely & Rachel Greenberg tr.W :mr.i1pr.i 7:i:t Tova U'mesuka and Family Osher & Ruth Lehmann ofBayswater, NY Peretz Chaim & Zahava Flatbush, New York Uncle Eliezer Gevirtz Levin & Family

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