Volume 23, Issue 9

CONGREGATION LEVI YI TZCHOK OF HANCOCK PARK 5773/2012 Kislev

Chabad Chodesh Kislev 5773

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Yartzeit of R. Shmerel of Verchovka, student of the Baal He said Chassidus all night and often asked if it Shem Tov, 5536 [1775]. was morning. He finished just before dawn; as he said the words “with You is the source of life,” he Kislev 3/November 17/Shabbos passed away and was united with HaShem. (Sefer Roman images removed from the Beis HaMikdash HaToldos) courtyard when Jews threatened a war. (Megilas Taanis 9) The Tzemach Tzedek said there wasn't such a passing since R. Shimon Bar Yochai. The Zohar says Kislev 4/November 18/Sunday he was saying Torah and passed on, saying the word A delegation of Jews from Bavel came to Yerushalayim to "Chayim" - life. ask Zechariah if they should continue to fast on Tisha The Rebbe was buried in Niezhen and that year B’Av, since the Second Beis HaMikdash was being built; the joyful day of redemption became one of He prophesied that all fasts would become days of joy mourning. and celebration, 3412 [349 BCE]. (Zechariah:7-8) Yartzeit of R. Moshe of Slavuta, a printer in Slavuta, Kislev 5/November 19/Monday son of R. Pinchas of Koretz, 5598 [1837]. He was Yartzeit of R. Shmuel Eidels, the "MaHaRSha", 5392 very close with the Alter Rebbe. (Beis Rebbe) [1631] The Alter Rebbe had the first printed by him (printed this month on Kislev 20), out of a debt Wedding of the Tzemach Tzedek and Rebbitzen Chayah of gratitude to his father. ( Rachel, p. 199) Mushka, in , 5564 [1803]. Kislev 10/November 24/Shabbos Kislev 6/November 20/Tuesday The Mittler Rebbe was released from imprisonment, Tenaim between the Rebbe and the Rebbitzen Chayah 5587 (1826). On Chol HaMoed Sukkos it became Mushka, in Riga, Latvia, 5689 [1929]. known that the Mitteler Rebbe had been slandered and accused of using funds to overthrow the Russian Kislev 7/November 21/Wednesday government. The accusers noted that the Rebbe was King Yehoyakam burned the scroll (of Eichah), dictated sending money to the Turkish Sultan (the money was by Yirmiyahu HaNavi to Baruch b. Neriah, 3321 [603 for Jewish settlers in Israel, which was under Turkish BCE]. (Yirmiyahu 36:23) rule). And, they said, the Rebbe's Shul was built to the same measurements as the Beis HaMikdash. (But Once a fast day, (Megilas Taanis) death of Herod, [4 when the Rebbe's Shul was measured to compare it BCE], proclaimed a holiday, (Megilas Taanis 9). with the measurements of the Beis HaMikdash it was determined that the measurements were quite Kislev 9/November 23/Friday different). All of the Rebbe's accounts were to be translated [into Russian]. The accusers wanted the Birthday of our holy Master and Teacher, the Mitteler work done by their side. And so it was. The Rebbe, R. DovBer, second Chabad Rebbe, 5534 [1773] translation proved all funds had been spent and his Yartzeit, 5588 [1827]. according to law: Jews in Russia were helping Jews in Eretz Yisroel which was legal. On the night of Kislev 9, the Mitteler Rebbe fainted When the Rebbe was brought before the Governor many times. Once, they were unable to resuscitate him. -General he showed him that all funds were for the The chassidim came, as well as the Chevrah Kadisha. The poor in Eretz Yisroel and all the accusations were chassidim and the family didn't give up hope; they tried false. and successfully revived him. The Governor-General wanted to bring the Rebbe They asked the Rebbe, "Didn't you hear the shouting face to face with his accusers. When the Rebbe in the house? Why are you frightening us so much?" He arrived, the Governor-General honored him and answered, "I heard a heavenly voice asking what does gave him a chair. At one point, the accuser turned to such a Neshamah have to do in this physical world?" the Rebbe and said, “Rebbe…” The Rebbe said to the The Rebbe asked that he be dressed in his white Governor-General, “He calls me a thief, and accuses clothes. Color returned to his face; he spoke of Zechusim me of treason - and calls me ‘Rebbe’ because that's - good things about Jews - that Jews are careful to do the truth.” The accuser started to stammer and Mitzvos, especially Tzedakah, giving more than they can. stutter until the Governor-General asked him to He told his chassidim and family to be happy [because] leave. simchah sweetens judgment. He began to say Chassidus. On Shabbos, Tes Kislev, at Mincha, while the The chassidim became happy, as if it were a wedding. All Rebbe said the Maamar, “Atah Echad”, news came felt that now the Rebbe would regain his health. that he was innocent and would be released.

VOLUME 23, ISSUE 9 Page 2 In the middle of his Chassidus he said “Shah! Yartzeit of R. Yosef Yitzchak of Ovritch, son of the Make a place, my father is here.” On Sunday, Yud Tzemach Tzedek, father of Rebbitzen Shterna Sarah who Kislev, he was freed. was the wife of the Rebbe RaShaB, 5637 [1877]. The Friediker Rebbe was named after R. Yosef Kislev 12/November 26/Monday Yitzchak of Ovritch, his grand-father. The Rebbe told Yartzeit of R. Shlomoh Luria, the "MaHaRShaL", the following story: author of Yam Shel Shelomoh, 5334 [1573]. Reb Yosef Yitzchok’s father-in-law, R. Yaakov Yisroel of Cherkas, asked his son in law, “How do you Kislev 13/November 27/Tuesday daven?” He answered that he always tries to daven with Yartzeit of Ravina b. Rav Huna, co-editor of the a minyan. Once after davening R. Yaakov Yisroel sent a Gemara, last of the Amoraim, 4235 [475]. messenger to get his son-in-law, he was told his son-in- law was in middle of davening. He sent the messenger Kislev 14/November 28/Wednesday several times, and every time he was told his son-in-law Birthday Reuvein son of Yaakov Avinu, 2194, and was still davening. When R. Yosef Yitzchok came to his Yartzeit 2319. father-in-law after davening, his father-in-law asked him, “You told me you davened with a minyan Wedding Anniversary of the Lubavitcher Rebbe and b’tzibur?” R. Yosef Yitzchok answered that my father, Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka, daughter of the previous the Tzemach Tzedek, told me in the name of the Alter Lubavitcher Rebbe. The wedding was in Warsaw on Rebbe that b’tzibur means to gather, that I have to this date in 5689 (1928). "This day is the day that gather all my kochos of the Neshamah, and the sparks connects me with you, the Chassidim..." (Sichah, together to daven, and that takes time. (Farbrengen 19 5713) Kislev 5719)

Kislev 15/November 29/Thursday Completion of annual cycle of Tanya. Yartzeit of R. Zeev of Zhitomir, student of the Mezeritcher Magid, author of Or HaMeir, 5660 Kislev 19/December 3/Monday [1810]. Yud-Tes Kislev “...a Sefer the Tzemach Tzedek cites in Or Rosh HaShanah of Chasidus HaTorah and brings many times and explains and Gut Yom Tov! comments on. . . and builds upon...” (Sichos, Shabbos Chazon and Av 20, 5734) May you be written and sealed for a good year in the study of Chasidus, and the ways of Chasidus. Annual holiday (a fast day with Selichos, followed by a dinner) of the Chevrah Kadisha Burial Society, Redemption of the Alter Rebbe from his first according to Chabad [and Russian and Lithuanian] imprisonment, 5559 [1798]. custom. Yartzeit of our holy Master and Teacher, R. Dov Ber b. On this day in 5510 [1750] the Alter Rebbe was Avrohom, the Magid of Mezeritch, second leader of the accepted into the Chevrah Kadisha of Liozhna. Chasidic movement, 5533 [1772]. “…a day of and resolutions in Yartzeit of R. Chaim Chaykil, brother-in-law of the establishing times to study the Revealed Torah and Tzemach Tzedek. He was married to the Tzemach Chasidus publicly, and in strengthening the ways of Tzedek's half-sister, Devorah Leah. Chasidim in true friendship.” (HaYom Yom) After the death of the Tzemach Tzedek's mother, The Alter Rebbe celebrated the first Seudah of thanks his father, R. Sholom Shachne, married Rebbitzen on Yud Tes Kislev in 5562 [1802] Rivkah, daughter of R. Aharon of Karlin, and had two daughters. R. Moshe, son of the Alter Rebbe, freed from prison, 5576 [1815], (Sefer HaToldos). Kislev 18/December 2/Sunday Yartzeit of R. Avraham Maimuni, son of the First day of new cycle of study of Tanya. Rambam, leader of Egyptian Jewry, author of HaMaspik LiOvdei HaShem, 4998 [1237]. We don't say Tachnun.

Yartzeit of R. Boruch of Mezhbyz, grandson of the Birthday of Rebbitzen Menuchah Rochel, daughter of Baal Shem Tov, author of Botzina DiNehora, 5572 the Mitteler Rebbe, 5559 [1798]. She was born the day [1811]. the Alter Rebbe was released from prison; her father said, “From now on, we will have rest,” and called her

VOLUME 23, ISSUE 9 Page 3 Menuchah. [And Rochel for the Alter Rebbe's youngest on Yud Tes Kislev, the Yartzeit of the Maggid). daughter, who died young.] Two years later the completion of the redemption of the Alter Rebbe was on the eve of Chof Kislev, Kislev 20/December 4/Tuesday and the Chassidim now understood what the Reb- First printing of the Tanya, Slavuta, 5557 [1796]. be was saying.” Reshimos - Notes of the Friediker Rebbe on Tanya, numbers 4 & 5. Complete redemption of the Alter Rebbe. The Bris of the Rebbe Rashab, 5621/1860. Ezra urged the Jews assembled in Yerushalayim to dissolve On the second night of Chanukah, the all intermarriages, 3414 (347 BCE) (Ezra 10:9) Tzemach Tzedek called for his son, the Rebbe Ma- harash, and said to him: “Tomorrow your will During the Maariv Amidah, Tuesday Night, we start to ask perform the Bris of your son. Let it be done quiet- for rain in the Brocha of “Mevarech Hashanim.” ly, in the room that I use for private prayer. Only your brother and closest relatives will be present. Kislev 24/December 8/Shabbos Twenty people at most should attend. The second On Motzei Shabbos we light the first Chanukah Light. set of Luchos was given in a quiet and a private Happy Chanukah! way and of them it is said: “...you will never cease to speak of them, nor will your children, nor your Mishkan completed by Moshe Rabeinu (Bereishis Raba 22, children’s children, now and for evermore.” Shmos Rabah 52:2) 2450. The Tzemach Tzedek gave instructions that the “...On the twenty-fifth of Kislev the Mishkan was child should be named Shalom DovBer, giving finished; HaShem waited until Nissan. Kislev was shamed, him half his father’s name—Shalom Shachna, and HaShem repaid it in the days of the the name of the Mitteler Rebbe—Dov Ber. Yimei Chashmonaim” [Yalkut Shimoni, Melachim 1:184] Chabad

Dedication of the Heichal of the Second Beis HaMikdash, Kislev 27/December 11/Tuesday 520 BCE (Chagai 2:18) (R. Yaakov Emden, Mor UKetziah, Second redemption of the Alter Rebbe, 5561 670) [1800]. “...The second imprisonment of the Alter Rebbe The Chashmonaim purified the Beis HaMikdash and of- wasn't as heavy as the first. But the slander was fered the daily Korban Tamid, and had the miracle of the more severe, be-cause it was against the existence oil, 3597 [165 BCE]. of Chasidus...” (HaYom Yom)

Yartzeit of R. Chayim Chezkiah Medini, author of Sdei Teves 1/December 14/Friday Chemed, a twenty volume Halachic encyclo-pedia, 5665 Rosh Chodesh Teves [1904]. “...According to the instruction of my father-in-law, the Teves 2/ December 15/ Shabbos Rebbe, of blessed memory, we publish a new, corrected Shabbos Chanukah edition of the sefarim "Sdei Chemed...” “The great benefit and necessity of these sefarim is Teves 3/December 16/Sunday known to anyone involved in rabbinic literature, and Zos Chanukah/Final Day of Chanukah especially for Poskim of Halachah in its truest form according to the Torah of Gedolei Yisroel of previous gen- erations...” (Introduction of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, to his edition of S’dei Chemed [Kehot, NY. 1952]. He also compiled a biography of the author for that edition.)

Kislev 26/December 10/Monday The first edition of the Tanya was delivered to the Alter Rebbe, 2nd Day of Chanukah 5557/1796. “On the second day of Chanukah, the 26th of Kislev, a courier from Slavuta brought the first shipment - two hundred copies - of the Tanya, the printing of which had been completed on the 20th of Kislev. The Alter Rebbe mentioned three times “Chof Kislev” and the Chassidim did not understand why the Rebbe was saying this (since the Alter Rebbe had requested that the learning commence

VOLUME 23, ISSUE 9 Page 4 HAYOM YOM - SEVENTY YEARS (Continued from page 1)

Tanya and Tehillim, as well as short sayings from Chasi- Rabbi Chadokov continued to explain that the Pre- dus and the ways of Chassidim. He also chose its name: vious Rebbe was emphasizing that a day should be HaYom Yom: A Luach of Light for Chassidei Chabad.” a day!

The Rebbe worked tirelessly on the Luach which ap- ************** peared on Nisan 11 (the Rebbe’s birthday) 5703 (1943) My Brother, Abba, related that Sukkos of 1970 was the last Yom Tov the Rebbe ate on the second The Previous Rebbe showed great love and regard for the floor in the Previous Rebbe’s apartment. When Luach. He wrote at that time, in a letter to R. Alexander Rebbetzin Nechama Dina passed away that year, Hakohen, “...Surely you’ve recieved the Sefer HaYom the Rebbe stopped eating the Yom Tov Seudos on Yom, a Sefer in a format that is small, which is how a the second floor. Chasid should be in his own eyes, but full with pearls and precious stones from tremendous treasures. It is, Bo- My father, OB”M was almost always invited to be ruch Hashem, a true Chasidic creation of true quality. by the Rebbe for the Yom Tov meals. That Tishrei, Hashem has graced, Bli Ayin Hora, my son in law, Harav of 1970, my brother, Abba, was the headwaiter. Hagaon, R. Menachem Mendel Shlita, to be able to build The Sukka was on the small balcony on the second a beautiful Chasidic edifice with 383 rooms, in such a floor. In one of the meals the Rebbe turned way that every day expresses something. This is the true around and asked if anyone knows the maamorei sense of “HaYom Yom”: “Today is the day”, that every Chassidus that the Rebbeim would often review to day is in fact A DAY…” purify the atmosphere. (This is detailed in HaYom Yom of the 28th of Tammuz.) The Rebbe then The Previous Rebbe himself studied the HaYom Yom and looked at my father and my father started reciting sometimes would show how “to live” with a day’s teach- the HaYom Yom of 28th of Tammuz by heart. My ing. In his letters he would sometimes cite the daily say- father stopped for a moment to remember, while ing as a cornerstone and guide when directing those who the Rebbe stared at him...as he continued the turned to him. HaYom Yom from memory the Rebbe’s face broke out with a big smile. He would encourage Chassidim to study and delve deeply into it. Once at the Farbrengen of Shavous, 5703 (1943) ****************** he said that those who followed the daily shiurim of We need to remember to HaYom Yom, could go forward in a completely different manner, to receive the Torah… connect each day with the Rebbe by learn- ing the Hayom Yom! Over the years there were many editions and many translations of the HaYom Yom.

****************

On Shemini Atzeres, 5723 (1963) the Bachurim were pushing in the Rebbe’s Sukkah. Suddenly the Rebbe turned to one bochur and asked him about something recited in HaYom Yom. The Bachur couldn’t answer.

The Rebbe responded, “If they don’t know the HaYom Yom, what are they pushing here for?

****************

Rabbi Chodakov A”H once related how the Previous Reb- be was speaking regarding the Sefer HaYom Yom and he said with a nigun… “HaYom Yom!”

VOLUME 23, ISSUE 9 Page 5 Chof Kislev 5557-1796 This year marks 200 years from the Histalkus of the Alter Rebbe. One of the Alter Rebbe’s famous works is the Tanya. The Tanya was printed two years before the arrest and liberation of the Alter Rebbe.

The following are excerpts from writings of the Pre- that the book come off the press not later than vious Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneerson in the beginning of Kislev (5557) and that the his Reshimos on Tanya printed in the “Kitzurim copies be delivered forthwith to Liozna. He was anxious that the printed copies of the .א , ג ,ה V’Heoros” parts book be in the hands of the Chassidim before the Yahrtzeit of the Maggid of Mezritch, so It was the Rebbe’s custom to lead in prayer on the that it could be studied on that day. Yahrtzeit day ( 19th of Kislev) of the Maggid of Mezritch. He acted as Reader during all three daily services. After the Evening prayer he usually gave a Word of the Rebbe’s consent to the printing Chassidic discourse in his own room to a select of the Tanya spread quickly among the Chas- group, while after Minchah he gave a public dis- sidim and evoked jubilation in their circles. course. However, when mid-Cheshvan came and it was learned that the last print-sheet could not be put into the press in time for the book to be In the year 5557 (1796) the day of Yahrtzeit oc- completed on or before the specified date, the curred on a Monday ( December 19th), and the Reb- Rebbe was visibly upset. be observed his annual custom. Some three months earlier, towards the end of the month of Elul (5556), the emissaries, Moshe, Pinchas and Yitzchak Moshe, During the Morning prayers on the Yahrtzeit whom the Rebbe had sent to the saintly Rabbis Ye- day, it being a Monday, when the first section huda Leib Hakohen and Meshulam Zusia of Anipoli, of the weekly portion is read from a Sefer- returned with the written approbations of the two Torah, the Rebbe read from the Torah Scroll Chassidic leaders to be published with the Tanya. himself. The first Aliya (calling up to the Thereupon the Rebbe informed the printers in Slavita reading) was given to the Kohen, Elimelech to proceed with the printing of the book, requesting of Yanot: the second, to the Levi, Zelig of

VOLUME 23, ISSUE 9 Page 6 Ulla, and the third was taken by the Rebbe himself. He read the portion (dealing with Joseph’s dream) The mystery cleared up, however, the follow- with especial fervor, emphasizing partiulary the last ing year, when the Rebbe was released from verses, And he related (the dream) to his father and prison on the 19th of Kislev, after being cleared brothers...and his brothers envied hm...but his father of slanderous charges made against him by his kept the matter (in his mind) (gen. 37:10-11). malicious opponents. On that occasion he was mistakenly taken into the house of one of the Completing the reading, he sighed deeply and as he vicious misnagdim and only late that night of recited the benediction after the Torah reading, fol- the 20th of Kislev was he finally released from lowed by Kaddish, his voice shook with emotion. He his predicament. That is when we realized the remained at the Shulchan (Reading Table) for quite a significance of the date of the 20th of Kislev. while, in deep contemplation. All of us present were overawed. Subsequently, the Alter Rebbe’s son and suc- cessor, Rabbi Dov Ber, explained that the vital- On the second day of Chanukah, (26th of Kislev) a ity which the printed Tanya had instilled into special messenger arrived from Slavita, bringing the Torah study and religious conduct of the Chas- first 200 copies of the printed Tanya which had come sidim in the two years since the book’s appear- off the press on the previous Tuesday (Kislev 20th). ance in print, had stood his father in good stead When the first copy was handed to the Rebbe he and saved him from certain death. And that the looked at it for a long time and then said, “ `Many are countless myriads of angels which had been the thought in a man’s heart but it is the counsel of G- created by the reading of the sacred words and d that prevails’ It was my desire that the book be letters of the Tanya had intervened for him on completed by the beginning of the month of Kislev, High to bring about his triumphant vindication. so that it could be studied on the day of my master’s Yahrtzeit. But G-d willed it otherwise, and the print- Rabbi Eizik of Homel related the follow- ing was completed on the 20th of Kislev (he repeated ing...Having heard the news that the Rebbe again, and a third time). And all that the Merciful one (Rabbi Schneur Zalman) was on his way home, does is for the good.” we set out for Liozna. Arriving in Liozna, we found there hundreds of Chassidim from near No one understood why the Rebbe was so upset by and far. When the Rebbe reached Liozna, we the delay in the appearance of the printed Tanya, a all went out to welcome his holiness. delay of only some two weeks. Or what was signifi- cant about the 20th of Kislev. Several days later, the senior Chassidim gath- ered for a celebration. The Rebbe’s son– Rabbi In the beginning of the month of Cheshvan, in the fol- Dov Ber– joined the Chassidic get-together. lowing year 5558 (1797—Yaakov Smilianer was to He related that when the Tanya appeared in leave on his annual round trip to collect contributions print, the Adversary on High raised a storm of for the support of the Jews in the Holy land. The protest against the Rebbe, which did not pass Rebbe instructed him to tell all the Chassidim they unheeded. Thereupon the Rebbe offered him- should study the book diligently and on the 20th of self for whatever sanctions lay in store for him, Kislev (occurring on Shabbos that year) they were even mortal agony, provided his books would urged to learn at least two chapters of the second part; be well received among the Jewish people, to again, all of us were mystified. stimulate a higher degree of dedication and rev-

VOLUME 23, ISSUE 9 Page 7 erence in the service of G-d. We all rejoiced and danced till late at night” Reb Isaac continued... that he heard from the Alter For two years the agitation of the Adversary on Rebbe’s brother, that when the Alter Rebbe heard of High persisted, because the Rebbe had succeeded this incident he derived pleasure from it and became in dissemination the Ba’al Shem Tov’s way of Di- very happy. He then called his (favorite) grandson vine worship among the masses, enabling every and placed his holy hands on his head and blessed Jew to rise to a high level of devoutness, each ac- him, that he should merit to reveal the Torah Sheh cording to his capacity. On the first day of Rosh Be’al Peh, the Oral Torah of the written Torah of Hashana, at the time of the sounding of the Sho- Chassidus. far, came a critical moment, when the Rebbe and the entire Chassidic community faced the gravest ************** of peril. Divine mercies were evoked which miti- gated the Supreme Heavenly court’s sentence. One time someone was taking pictures of the Rebbe The Rebbe was to be spared, but only after suffer- when the Rebbe was leaving the shul. The Rebbe ing mortal anguish. Indeed, as we have seen, he turned to the photographer and asked him if he suffered the utmost mortification for fifty three learned that days shiur Tanya. When the photogra- days (of imprisonment), a day for each chapter of pher responded “no”, the Rebbe waited till they the Tanya. However, in view of his self-sacrifice brought him a Tanya so he could start learning right for the teachings of Chassidus the Heavenly Court away. ruled that his adherents and followers should henceforth be successful in overcoming every ob- stacle in all matters of Torah, piety and good ************* works. One time R’ Zalman Gurary left to the airport for one of his travels but he had to returned home since his flight couldn’t take off. There is a minhag from The next tradition was transmitted by Rabbi R. Yehudah Hanasi that when you leave your Yitzchak Isaac of Vitebsk to Rabbi Shmuel (the house to travel you don’t go back into the house if Rebbe Maharash.) It concerns an episode which you forgot something. R’ Zalman was hesitant took place on the 19th of Kislev, 5560 (December about returning back home since he left his house to 16, 1799), the first anniversary of Rabbi Schneur travel. He called R. Chadokov to ask him what to Zalman’s acquittal. The Chassidim were gathered do. Rabbi Chadokov approach the Rebbe with this in the synagogue of their leader to celebrate the question. The Rebbe responded to R’ Zalman’s occasion. They were in an elated frame of mind. concern saying that R’ Zalman should learn a chap- Suddenly, the Rebbe’s young grandson came in, ter of Tanya. The Rebbe continued explaining that banged on the amud for silence and called out . when you learn a chapter of Tanya you become a “Prepare for Ata Hareisa! He continued, “It is different person and then you could return to your Simchas Torah today!” and he began to distribute house! the honors of reading the verses in the manner of Simchas Torah before Hakafos. At night the Rebbe inquired from R. Chadakov about what happened with R’ Zalman and he em- phasized once again saying “What I said, I meant. “After we finished saying the seventeen passages, When a person learns Tanya they become a new he took a Tanya and said in the “Simchas To- person!” rahdikke” tune, we will now honor so and so with a Sefer Torah ( the Tanya) for the first Hakofah, second Hakofah and so on.

VOLUME 23, ISSUE 9 Page 8 Kesherim & Ben David Inc. TES KISLEV Established 1947

Farbrengen & Learning is a Pidyon for the Mitteler Rebbe Diamonds, Rubies & Sapphires David Kesherim (See special Days - page 2 - Kislev 9 & 10/Nov 23-24) 706 S. Hill Street # 320 In a letter my saintly father-in-law, the previous Rebbe, explains Los Angeles, CA 90014 the importance of observing the Yartzeit of a Tzadik with learning Tel: 213 622-6006 and Farbrengens. He tells of the Yartzeit of the Mitteler Rebbe on Pager: 213 506-6000 Tes Kislev when the Rebbe Rashab said a Ma’amar and then said Fax: 213 622-6007 that the learning and Farbrenging we do on a Yartzeit is a Pidyon Nefesh we give the departed. ***

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“Find more joy (Sichah, Shabbos Yud Kislev 5711) in your life!”

VOLUME 23, ISSUE 9 Page 9 Yud Tes Kislev ~ The Rosh Hashanah of Chassidus Sunday Night/Monday ~ December 2 & 3

The Nineteenth of Kislev is the Yahrzeit of our saintly master, R. DovBer, the Maggid of Mezritch, the mentor of the second generation of the Chassidic movement, from 5521 (1761) until his passing on Tuesday, of Parshas Vayeishev, Kislev 19, 5533 (1772). (For a biography in English, see: R. Jacob Im- manuel Schochet, the Great Maggid (Kehot, N.Y. 1974))

R. , the Alter Rebbe, author of the Tanya, founder and first leader of the Chabad Chassidic movement from 5533 (1772) until his passing on Teves 24, 5573 (1812), was released from his first imprisonment on Kislev 19, late in the afternoon Tuesday of Parshas Vayeishev, 5559 (1798).

The Alter Rebbe writes in a letter: “...This indeed must be made known, that on the day which HaShem made for us, on the nineteenth of Kislev; on the third day of the week (about which the Torah writes twice, “It is good”) on the Yahrtzeit of our holy master (the Magid of Mezritch), whose soul reposes in Eden

On that day, while I was reading the verse in the Book of Tehillim that begins, “he has redeemed my soul in peace” (55:19), and before I began the following verse, I went forth in peace through the G-d of Peace.” (For an account of his arrest and liberation see: R. , Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi (Kehot, N.Y., 1971)

“One ought to prepare oneself for the approach of the Rosh Hashanah of chassidus in ways that recall the days of Selichos and the month of Elul.” (Sichah Yud-Tes Kislev, 5707)

“It’s a custom for Chassidim to immerse in the Mikveh before Shacharis on the nineteenth of Kislev, keeping the practice handed down by the earliest Chassidim in the name of the Baal Shem tov, to go to the Mikveh before Shabbos and YomTov, and on Shabbos and YomTov morning.” (Sefer Haminhagim)

The Rebbe Rashab used to make an appeal for charitable purposes during the Farbrengen of Yud-Tes Kislev. (Sefer Hasichos: Toras Shalom, p. 243)

It’s customary to divide the Mesechtas of Shas, on Yud-Tes Kislev, to study in the course of the coming year.

The Alter Rebbe writes in the letter “Hocheiach Tochiach”, that closes Kuntres Acharon at the end of Tanya: “Complete the study of the entire Talmud every year and in every community, the Mesechtos apportioned by lot or by consent. In a city where there are many shuls, each congregation should com- plete the Talmud. and if a congregation is too small to implement this, they should join forces with men of a larger one. This program shall be neither violated nor varied.”

From 5663 (1902) on, because of lack of time on Yud-Tes Kislev, the division of the Shas in Lubavitch was done on Teves 24, Yahrtzeit of the Alter Rebbe. In 5713 (1952), fifty years later, the Rebbe, re- stored the custom to its original date, Yud-Tes Kislev.

Those whose community, for whatever reason, too small to cope with the entire Talmud, participate in the division arranged by Machne Israel, . Brooklyn, NY 11213.

Rosh Hashanah LeChassidus is a day when everyone should bless their family and friends with: “May you be written and sealed for a good year in the study of Chassidus, and the ways of Chassidus.”

VOLUME 23, ISSUE 9 Page 10 We should start learning the HaYom Yom everyday.

In the Farbrengen of Yud Tes Kislev we should have the 3 pillars of Torah, Avodah, and Gimilas Chas- odim.

Torah: is to learn from the teachings of the Alter Rebbe, especially a Maamar, the Chassidic discourse, which is connected to Geulah, starting with the words: Padah Beshalom.

Tefillah: also includes saying Lechaim to bless other people (even if they are not present).

Tzedakah: Kind deeds, is to give Tzedakah by the Farbrengen and saying kind words to another person is also a kind deed. (Farbrengen of Yud Tes Kislev, 5749/1988)

Everyone should make Yud Tes Kislev farbrengens: with himself, with his family and with his friends. (Shabbos Parshas Yishlach - 16th Kislev, 5752/1991)

The Rebbe always stressed Shiurim of and the daily schedule is written in back of the Tanya.

Stories of Yud-Tes Kislev ~ From Various Sichos

R’ Yisroel Yitzchok of Staradov, a Chasid of R’ Menachem Mendel of Horodok, became a Chasid of the Alter Rebbe. He was of such stature among Chasidim that even when there were restrictions about coming to the Al- ter Rebbe, he was exempt and could come whenever he wished.

In 5559 (1798) he was in Liozna for Tishrei. When he saw the black coach to take the Alter Rebbe to prison he shouted, “The Shechinah is exiled!” he said Shema and fainted. They couldn’t revive him. Someone had an idea, to shout to him that the Rebbe was free and had returned. R’ Yisroel Yitzchok awoke, but was very weak. He couldn’t return home by foot, but had to go by wagon.

The entire time the Alter Rebbe was in prison the Chasidim fasted. In Staradov, on the night of Yud Tes Kislev they made a farbrengen for the Magid’s Yartzeit, but by day they fasted.

R’ Yisroel Yitzchok said: R’ Menachem Mendel of Horodok came to him in a dream and said, “Although you are no longer my Chasid, I will reveal to you a secret: Tonight, we were in the Heichal of the Magid, the Ba’al Shem Tov sat on his right and the AriZal on his left. The Magid said Chasidus and began to cry. He said, “My student, the Magid of Liozna, is in prison; we must do something. Suddenly R’ Shimon Bar Yochai came and they made a Beis Din and ruled that the Alter Rebbe must be freed.” The Chasidim wondered whether they should continue fasting, and in fact they did. This was Tuesday. On Sunday a messenger came and told them the Alter Rebbe was free. (Sichas of the Friediker Rebbe, Shavuos 5696) ***

The Alter Rebbe was arrested in 5559. It would have been years earlier, but when the Tzadik R’ Zushye of Anip- oli found out about the decree, he said, “Zushye doesn’t want it.” The decree was delayed several years.

The same decree was on many of the Magid’s desciples. The Alter Rebbe accepted it and R’ Zushey said, “Zushye doesn’t want it.” (Sichah of the Friediker Rebbe, Yud Tes Kislev 5687)

*** When they were going to arrest Mitteler Rebbe, there was a Professor Haybentaub, who was very close with the Governer of Vitebsk. The professor told the governer that they can’t make a sudden arrest and separation of the Rebbe from his Chassidim, because the arrest itself won’t harm him, but the fact that he won’t be able to say words of Chassidus will be a danger to his health. Professor Haybentaub convinced the Government that they should give the Rebbe permission to say Chassidus. (See page 2, Kislev 10). The Mitteler Rebbe said of the ar-

VOLUME 23, ISSUE 9 Page 11 rest, “I do not have the strength of my father. My father agreed to be arrested because he wanted to test the brotherly love of Chasidim. How would they accept his arrest?”

The Friediker Rebbe said, “I once told my father this. He said, “I searched through Seforim to find how it’s per- mitted according to Torah, to put oneself in danger to see the Midos and brotherly love of Chasidim.”

My father concluded that a shepherd of B’nei Yisroel must know what is happening with his flock. “If the Alter Rebbe would have known this was missing from Chasidim he would have to correct it. To do this it was worth putting himself in danger.” The Rebbe Rashab said the brotherly love of Chasidim is their nature; if someone’s missing this he is blemished, as if someone would be born missing a limb, Chas V’Shalom. (Sichah Yud Kislev 5697) * * * On the first anniversary of Yud Tes Kislev chasidim didn’t know what would happen. The Alter Rebbe’s brother R’ Yehudah Leib, wrote that no one should come for Yud Tes Kislev or the Shabbosim before. The Chasidim knew they wouldn’t say Tachnun, but didn’t know if it would be a Yom Tov. The emissary who collected money for Chabad in Israel, R’ Yaakov Smilianer, gave this advice: they should collect money faster than usual; he’d bring it to the Alter Rebbe early and try to rescind the decree. He succeeded and many Chasidim came for Yud Tes Kislev.

The Alter Rebbe said a Ma’amar, “And next year they established it as a Yom Tov.” (as the Gemara says about Chanukah.) (Sichah of the Friediker Rebbe, Yud Tes Kislev 5697)

The Rebbe explained that since he connected Yud Tes Kislev to Chanukah, it teaches us that just as Chanukah will exist after Moshiach comes, so too will the Tom Tov of Yud Tes Kislev. (Vayeishev 5717).

* * * R’ Izek of Vitebsk told the Rebbe Maharash: On the first anniversary Chasidim gathered in Liozna and it was very joyous. The Rebbe’s grandson, the Tzemach Tzedek, came into the room, pounded on the table, “Atah Hareisah.” The Chasidim divided Atah Hareisah among themselves and dances Hakofos with a Sefer Torah until late at night. The Alter Rebbe heard of this and was very pleased. He called his grandson, put his holy hand on his head and blessed him: “He will reveal the Torah SheBa’alPeh of the Torah SheBichsav of Toras Chasidus Chabad.” (Kitzurim V’Horos of Tanya, Page 124)

The Tzemach Tzedek explained: in his youth he wanted to divide the Tanya into Pesukim and to put in Nekudos. “That night I dreamt I was learning the laws of a Sefer Torah. The question arose if a Torah had Nekudos and was divided into Pesukim was it kosher? I resolved that it was. I woke up and understood the hint.

That day I was to go into the Alter Rebbe’s room. When I stood at the threshold, he said “A Torah with Nekudos and Pesukim is invalid because the entire Torah is names of Hashem put together in combinations of words and letters.” (Kitzurim V’Horos of Tanya, Page 107)

“May you be written and sealed for a good year in the study of Chassidus, and the ways of Chassidus.” Listen Brother, Don’t Fall Asleep Before Daybreak (Moshiach)

My father, Harav Menachem Shmuel Dovid Raichik OB”M frequently recalled the last Yud Tes Kislev farbrengen which the Previous Rebbe held in Otwock, Poland, in the year of 5699, December 1938. In the Sichah, in that Farbrengen, the Rebbe gave them two examples for the period which we are now in. The first example was of someone who was climbing a mountain and was almost at the peak. Those last few steps are the hardest to take and overcome. At that time any small thing is precious - a clump of grass, a stone, a twig, something to hold onto with your body. If someone can give you a hand to help you, give you some light and show you how to go those few extra steps, then this is some-

VOLUME 23, ISSUE 9 Page 12 thing very precious. The same thing, we are now right before Moshiach, the last few steps. Every good thing we have to keep precious, we have to have the light to help us succeed. What is the light that helps us succeed? It is the light of Torah and Mitzvos. Setting for yourself a time to learn. We are holding just before Moshiach. There are only a few more steps and any good things that we can do hastens his coming.

The second example was of a person who doesn’t sleep a whole night and then in the last 10-15 minutes before daylight he has a compelling desire to sleep. If a person could only push himself not to fall asleep during that time and then if during the day he could push himself more and not fall asleep then he can accomplish what he is supposed to, but if he falls asleep before daybreak then the whole day is lost. His sleepiness affects him for the whole day and his mind is not clear. So too us now, we are just minutes away from Moshiach coming. Before the light of the day (Moshiach) we get very sleepy spiritually. No one knows a din, We have to strengthen ourselves not to fall asleep! Everyone has to set aside time every day to learn. We have to give off Terumah and Maseros of time, tithing of our time, to learn! It’s not enough that we support Yeshivos and others to learn on our be- half, which is a very good and important thing to do. But we ourselves must learn! A day can not pass in which we don’t learn something. You can not prepare yourself to go to sleep at night and to say Krias Shema without at least learning 1/2 an hour during the day. This is intrinsically connected to our Parnossah. We have to know that we have to designate time to learn (in Beis Medrash, in a Shiur) and then we will not fall asleep before daybreak Chas V’Sholom. We will be a vessel to receive the light of the Day (Moshiach). This is an obligation on every single Jew to know. When you meet another Jew you have to tell him - Listen Brother don’t fall asleep before Daybreak. because then when the light of Day will come, you will be very upset. ותן טל ומטר לברכה ~ ASKING FOR RAIN

in the weekday Shemoneh Esrei, in the Brachah Mevareich ,(ותןתטתתתמתרתתתות תמת ת) ,We ask HaShem for rain HaShanim.

Outside of Eretz Yisrael, we begin to ask for rain sixty days after Tekufas Tishrei, the Jewish Autumnal Equinox. (In the twenty-first century, Tekufas Tishrei is always on October 7 —the sixty-day count in- cludes the day of the Tekufah, and the day we begin to ask).

This year we start saying “V’sein Tal Umatar” in Ma’ariv on Tuesday Night, December 4.

If you forget to say it before finishing Go back to “V’sein Tal Umatar L’verachah and the Brachah ‘Mevareich Hashanim’: continue from there. If you finished the Brachah Say “V’sein Tal Umatar L’verachah” and start the (and haven’t started the next): next brochah. If you started the next Brachah: Say "“V’sein Tal Umatar L’verachah" in ‘Shema Koleinu’ before "Ki ata shomeah tefilas kolpe” If you finished ‘Shema Koleinu’ Say “V’sein Tal Umatar L’verachah" and continue (but haven’t started the next Brachah): with R’zei. If you started the next Brachah: Start again from ‘Baruch Aleinu’. If you haven’t yet said the second Viyihiyu Start again from ‘Baruch Aleinu’. Liratzon” (at the end of Elokei Nitzur): If you remember after completing Elokei Nitzur Say the Shemoneh Esrei again. and reciting the second Viyihiyu Lratzon:

VOLUME 23, ISSUE 9 Page 13 CHANUKAH: LAWS & CUSTOMS MOTZEI SHABBOS VAYEISHEV –MOTZEI SHABBOS MIKETZ / DECEMBER 8-16

WHEN TO LIGHT dle for the Shamash. Make sure the Shamash stands higher than the This year the first night of Chanukah and last other candles; the other flames should be in a night of Chanukah are on Motzei Shabbos, we straight even row. Some people put in new wicks light the Chanukah menorah after Havdala. On every night; others use used wicks, since they light all the other nights the Chabad Minhag is to light more easily. the Menorah immediately after sunset [except on Friday and Motzei Shabbos] and have the lights Oil left over in the Menorah from one day can be burn at least fifty minutes. If you can’t light then, used another day. you may light all night. You can’t do the Mitzvah with electric lights. If you won’t be able to Daven Minchah and Maariv with a Minyan if you light at the right Before lighting, make sure there’s enough oil (or time, daven with a Minyan, then go home and that the candles are long enough) to burn fifty light. minutes after sunset.

If you’ll miss the opportunity for Mivtzoim, light Children should be taught to light Chanukah at home afterwards. (Try to light during the first Licht. Boys from the age of Chinuch should light half hour after nightfall.) their own Menorah. Girls follow their family’s custom. You may light with a Brachah from after Plag Haminchah, but make sure the lights will burn a “The custom of the Households of the Rebbeim half hour after nightfall. was that the girls didn’t light Chanukah Lights (neither those over or under Bas Mitzvah), but Once it’s time to light, you can’t work, sit down fulfilled their obligation through their fathers and to eat a meal, or even learn Torah, until you light. later their husbands.” [Sichah, Shabbos, If you’re out visiting, go home to light the Meno- Vayeishev, 5750] rah. (An overnight guest lights in his host’s home.) A single woman living alone must light Chanukah candles.

HOW TO LIGHT We wear a Gartel (but not Shabbos clothes). Gather everyone to light the Menorah, (to publi- cize the celebration of the miracle.) On the first night we light the Shamash and say three Brachos: Our custom is to put the Menorah in the door- “Lehadlik Ner Chanukah” (NOT “Shel Chanu- way, opposite the Mezuzah of the dining room kah”) (not in a window). “She-asah Nisim”

Put the Menorah between three to ten Tefachim “Shehechiyanu” (9.6 to 32 inches) from the floor. Light the Menorah after ALL the Brachos. (Don’t Make sure the Menorah is in a place where a talk between the Brachos and lighting.) breeze won’t blow out the flames. The candles On the other nights, say only the first two shouldn’t be so close to each other that they melt. Brachos.

We use olive oil for the lights and a beeswax can- On the first night, light the candle to the extreme right. Every night add a new light to the left of the

VOLUME 23, ISSUE 9 Page 14 previous light, lighting from left to right (the new Shabbos before Shabbos) and on the Fifth Night to candle first.) add.” [Sichah, Chanukah 5750]

We say “Haneiros Halalu” after lighting ALL the “...They should explain to them that the Chanu- candles. kah Gelt is so that they’ll add in their Torah learning, etc.” [Sichah, Kislev 21, 5748] Try to sit by the Menorah for about half an hour (except on Erev Shabbos). We eat Latkes or doughnuts fried in oil. Some eat We can’t make ANY use of the Chanukah candles, Milchigs because of the miracle of Yehudis who such as reading or working by their light. killed the Syrian general, putting him to sleep with dairy foods. If a candle hasn’t burned the required time, re- light it without a Brachah, (except on Shabbos). If There’s a question if we must eat a Seudah on the Shamash goes out, you can’t relight it from Chanukah. Of course, if you say Divrei Torah or the Chanukah candles (nor can you light any sing songs of praise to HaShem, it becomes a candles from each other). Seudas Mitzvah according to all opinions.

Women have the custom not to work while the “The Tzemach Tzedek’s custom was to make a candles burn. After the minimum time, they may kind of Farbrengen, one of the nights of Chanu- do work, but not in full view of the lights. kah, with his family. It was called “Latkes Even- ing”. This was also the custom of the Alter Rebbe Let the Chanukah candles burn out themselves. and the Mitteler Rebbe. Among the stories the Rebbeim told at this meal, were stories that they If you leave the house and you’re afraid to leave talked about every year, even though they talked them burning, make a condition before lighting, about them the year before.” [Hayom Yom] that you’ll be able to put them out after the re- quired time. If the Menorah burned the required Everyone should make Chanukah gathering in time, you can move it even while the lights are their homes, with family, in school and in the burning. work place. People should gather together at least once to speak about Chanukah and to make good If you come home late at night, you can light the resolutions about Torah and Mitzvohs and to give Menorah with the Brachos, if people in the house out Chanukah gelt. [21 Kislev 5748, 23 Kislev, are awake. Otherwise, wake someone (even a 5749] small child who understands what Chanukah lights are). LIGHTING IN SHUL We light the Menorah in Shul after Minchah be- AFTER LIGHTING fore “Aleinu”. We put the Menorah on the south It’s customary to give our children Chanukah wall, between east and west, to commemorate the Gelt. Beis Hamikdash.

“...The Rebbe RaShaB used to give Chanukah Gelt There should be a Minyan to say the Brachos. on the Fourth and Fifth Night of Chanukah”. [Hayom Yom] The person who makes the Brachos, and lights the Shul's Menorah, says the Brachos again at “...The previous Rebbe used to give Chanukah home. Since he says “Shehechiyanu” in Shul, he Gelt to his daughters, even after they married, doesn’t say it again at home —unless his house- and to his sons-in-law.” [Sichah, Kislev 21, 5748] hold fulfills their obligation through him. We light the Menorah before Shacharis, without “...It’s worthwhile to give children Chanukah a Brachah. Gelt at least two times throughout Chanukah (every night would be even nicer, including Erev

VOLUME 23, ISSUE 9 Page 15 SHABBOS ZOS CHANUKAH Prepare everything well in advance. MOTZEI SHABBOS/SUNDAY December 15-16 On Erev Shabbos we daven Minchah early, light The last day of Chanukah is called Zos Chanukah. the Menorah, and then the Shabbos Candles. We should learn from the Maamorim of the Alter Make sure to light the Menorah before lighting Rebbe with the notes of the Tzemach Tzedek ex- the Shabbos candles. plaining the greatness of Zos Chanukah.... [Ohr HaTorah - Chanukah vol. 5] [Zos Chanukah, 5749] Make sure it can burn at least fifty minutes past sunset. (The little Chanukah candles that come in “Everyone should take upon themselves a good the box are just not going to make it.) resolution to add in greater strength in all aspects of Ner Mitzvah and Torah Ohr. Starting with On Shabbos the Menorah is Muktzeh, and can’t learning Torah, both Nigleh and Chassidus: simp- be moved. ly to learn a lot. The quality of learning and the quantity of time. Through taking off of time from On Motzoei Shabbos we daven Maariv promptly business to learn the Aibeshter will surely give because we must light the Menorah. one an abundance of silver and gold for all one’s necessaties, and to do Mitzvohs B’Hidur, ie. pay- In Shul we light after Maariv before “Aleinu”, ing for tuition, dowry for marrying off one’s sons and say Havdalah. At home, say Havdalah, light and daughters etc. A persons involvement with the Menorah, say “Haneiros Halalu”, and then spreading Yiddishkeit shouldn’t be hindered by “Vayitein Lecha”. expenses, because Hashem will surely find enough silver and gold to cover all his expenses TEFILLOS for whatever he needs. (Shabbos Zos Chanukah 5750) Add “Al Hanisim” in Shemoneh Esrei. If you for- get it say it before finishing the Brachah “Hatov Zos Chanukah is a time for blessing someone not Shimcha ULecha Naeh Lihodos”, and continue. If yet blessed with children. This is because Chanu- you finished the Brachah, don’t repeat it. kah is a time of the revelation of the thirteen at- tributes of mercy. These are reflected in the thir- Don’t skip “Al Hanisim” in Shemoneh Esrei, to be teen words of the Brachah, “Lehadlik Ner Chanu- able to say “Kedushah” or “Modim” with the kah.” (Shabbos Parshas Miketz, Zos Chanukah Minyan. 5713/1952)

We say the complete Hallel. (An Aveil [mourner] In the sefer, Meor Einayim, R. Menachem Na- may Daven for the Amud except for Hallel.) chum of Chernobyl writes that the pasuk, “Orachti Ner Lemishichai,” - “I prepare a candle We read part of Parshas Naso every day to com- for my anointed one (Moshiach),” refers to Cha- memorate the dedication of the Beis Hamikdash. nukah Candles. (See Siddur) Oil or wicks left over in the Menorah can’t be Add “Al Hanisim” in Bentching. If you forgot it, used (unless, before lighting, you specified inten- you can say it before finishing the Brachah of tion to be able to use them). They should be “Nodeh Lecha”. burned without deriving benefit. The oil in the bottle can be used for any purpose. If you’ve finish the Brachah, when you get to the Harachamons, say “Harachamon Hu Yaaseh Lanu Always practice safety first near flames! Nisim Kemo She-asah La’avoseinu Bayamim Haheim Bizman Hazeh”, and begin “Al Hanisim”. The Halochos in this newsletter are only meant as a general guide. For individual We give extra Tzedakah on Chanukah. questions please contact your local Rabbi.

VOLUME 23, ISSUE 9 Page 16 CONGREGATION LEVI YITZCHOK CHABAD OF HANCOCK PARK

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המקעה הוה הקיער - Directives of the Rebbe for Kislev

In the month of Kislev from Rosh Chodesh on- Make Farbrengens during the month of Kislev. ward everybody should add in their Shiurim of Especially on the Yomim Tovim of Yud Kislev, Nigleh and Chassidus, if possible in a public and Yud Tes Kislev (and Chanukah). The Far- manner. It should be from the teachings of the brengens should include the three pillars of the three founders of Chassidus, the Ba’al Shem Tov, world, Torah, Tefillah and Gemilas Chasodim. the Magid, and the Alter Rebbe. Those that are (Sichah Yud Kislev 5748, Yud Tes Kislev 5749) capable should also add something everyday from the Torah of each of the Rebbeim. (Sichos The Rebbe constantly stressed on Yud Tes Kislev Kodesh 5749/1988) that we should strengthen our learning of Chi- tas, especially since we are starting a new cycle Aside from our own learning we, men and of learning Tanya. women, should see to it that others add in their learning too. (Rosh Chodesh and Gimmel Kislev We should increase our involvement with 5749) Mivtzah Chanukah, distributing Menorahs etc. On special Yomim Tovim we should first learn Torah of the Rebbe for whom the day is signifi- May we immediately merit to participate cant, then add from the rest of the Rebbeim, e.g. Yud Kislev we should first learn from the Torah in the lighting of the Menorah of the Mitteler Rebbe, then add from the rest of in the Beis Hamikdash ! the Rebbeim.

Rosh Chodesh Kislev Vayeishev Kislev 1/November 15/Thursday Erev Chanukah Mevarchim Teves Toldos Kislev 24/December 8 Kislev 3/November 17 Light Candles Friday December 7: 4:25 Light Candles Friday November 16: 4:30 Tehillim: 8:15 Shabbos Ends: 5:33 Shachris: 10:00 Last Time to Read Shema: 9:02 Shabbos Ends: 5:28 Last Time to Read Shema: 9:15 We light the first candle Motzoei Vayetzei Shabbos Yud Kislev/November 24 Light Candles Friday November 23 4:27 Shabbos Ends: 5:30 Chanukah Las Time to Read Shema 9:07 Kislev 25 -Teves 3/ December 9-16 Plag Haminchah/ December 9: 3:42 Vayishlach Sunset/December 9: 4:44 Kislev 17/December 1 (Plag Hamincha & sunset Light Candles Friday November 30: 4:25 change daily during Chanukah - Shabbos Ends: 5:28 check calendar) Last Time to Read Shema: 9:11 Molad of Teves Thursday/December 13 Yud Tes Kislev 4:09 p.m. and 11 Chalakim Kislev 19/December 2-3 Sunday night / Monday Redemption of the Alter Rebbe Rosh Chodesh Teves No Tachnun Teves 1/ December 14 /Friday

Complete Redemption of the Alter Rebbe Mikeitz First Printing of the Tanya Shabbos Chanukah Kislev 20/December 4/Tuesday Teves 2/ December 15 Light Candles Friday December 14: 4:27 Shabbos Ends: 5:30 Start saying V’sein Tal Umatar Last Time to Read Shema: 9:19 L’Brochah at Ma’ariv December 4/Tuesday Zos Chanukah Teves 3/December 16/Sunday

CALENDAR TIMES ARE FOR LOS ANGELES