The Rebbe

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

"Dear Rebbe, Should we Compromise?"

The following is a beautiful Yechidus that took place in the winter of 1962 between the Rebbe and a student of Yeshiva University. Included is a newly released photo of the Rebbe, courtesy of the Rebbe Archive.

Good Shabbos

Menachem

Question: Often a great many of our students are like “goyim” [gentiles], incapable and unreceptive to absorbing Jewish education. I have heard of Lubavitch’s success in disseminating Judaism in even remote parts of the globe. How are these people approached?

The Rebbe: It is always possible to convey even difficult concepts in an orderly and uncomplicated manner, using simple terms that even a beginner may understand. In addition, the better students may often serve as intermediaries between the instructor and the slower students. Lubavitch has often found that wherever the “darkness” of spiritual ignorance was greater, the response to Torah and mitzvoth was greater. One must not be dismayed by the infinite amount of work and teaching that must be done, but must strive to accomplish a limited amount each day in order to improve the world. Beginning from [Hebrew letters] Aleph-Bais, one must continue to progress until the goal is reached. Just as the Torah, which is limitless, has, nevertheless, confined itself into 613 precepts which every Jew, even the American Jew, is obligated to fulfill, so must the endless task of disseminated Judaism is limited to a certain amount of progress every day.

Question: You said that we should make religion part of our daily lives. However, some students feel that they cannot accept religion completely; they are not interested in fulfilling all the precepts. Is there any value in compromise?

The Rebbe: No one is perfect. “There is no tzaddik [holy man] on earth that has never sinned;” even the most righteous can be found lacking in some spiritual aspect. However, these imperfections do not impair the good that one performs. Every mitzvah accomplished adds impetus to fulfilling more precepts. Let each one do as much as he can today; tomorrow he will do more, or perhaps the day after tomorrow. G-d has infinite patience, but why postpone until tomorrow what can be done now?

Question: How should one begin in instructing his students, with just performance of the mitzvoth, or should he talk about hislahavus [ecstasy] as well?

The Rebbe: You must choose the approach that fits the individual you are dealing with. If hislahavus will appeal to him, choose that method. But one must be cognizant of the fact that the essential is ma’aseh be-poel, the actual performance of mitzvoth, and it is wise to begin with the essential so that if your talk becomes soporiferous in the middle, your audience will at least go away with an essential.

Question: Is quality more important than quantity?

The Rebbe: Einstein said that quantity transfers into quality, mass into energy. The Midrash Rabba cites an interesting point: If even one Jew of the 600,000 had been missing at Mt. Sinai, G-d would not have given the Torah. Not just a Jew like Moshe Rabbeinu, but even the Jew who had an idol in his tent, pesel mika; had he not been present, the Torah would not have been given. Nine Moses’ cannot make a minyan [quorum of ten] to say a kedusha, though that would be a tremendous amount of quality; but if you have ten in quantity, you can say kedusha, just as the Midrash Rabba stated that 600,000 was not necessary for the Revelation. This indicates that quantity and quality are transformative.

Thursday, April 30, 2009

The Rebbe's Room

The Avner Institute is proud to present a unique photo of the Rebbe leaving his room in 770. This room was the Rebbe’s private study from the day he arrived in the U.S. in 1941; it was here where he received thousands of visitors. special thanks to the Rebbe Archive for the picture.

Also included is a lovely diary written by a student in the winter of 1966, in which the Rebbe describes his room’s specialness.

Good Shabbos
Menachem

WHERE TEARS WERE HEARD

From a Student's Diary:

"In 1966 the president of Israel, Zalman Shazar, who shared a unique relationship with the Rebbe, made a visit to 770 under tremendous pressure, since legally a traveling president had to conduct business from where he was staying. When the president entered 770, the Rebbe walked him through the doors to the upstairs study hall. “This is where my father-in-law davened (prayed),” he said.

“This is where my father-in-law celebrated Simchas Torah." Showing him the place where the bachurim (students) sat and learned every day, he concluded, “All this I could not bring to you had I gone to see you at your hotel in Manhattan."

Then they entered the Rebbe’s room. The Rebbe pointed and said, “From this table the tears of many Yidden (Jews) were heard. This room helped free many from Russia, and here my father-in-law gave over discourses in Chassidus. “All this,” concluded the Rebbe, “I could not have brought had I come to your place of residence.”

Friday, April 24, 2009

What is The Job Description of a Rebbe?

What is The Job Description of a Rebbe?

What is a Rebbe?

Why must every Jew be connected to a Rebbe?

The following is a unique yechidus (audience) of the Rebbe that took place in the winter of 1969 with a Chabad supporter, reprinted with permission from the "Zionist Archives" of Jerusalem. Included is a unique photo of the Rebbe, with special thanks to the "Rebbe Archive."

Good Shabbos.
Menachem.

"Strength of a Leader"

Question: The Rebbe's energy is so instrumental in helping us serve G-d properly, how is it possible that we still have free will?

The Rebbe: The Torah says, regarding Moshe Rabbeinu: "I stand between G-d and the Jewish people," because connecting directly with G-d is a challenge. The Yidden (Jews) pleaded with G-d to place an intermediary between the Yidden and G-d. Each generation has its own Moshe Rabbeinu.

To understand this from a worldly perspective: when a regular person has an appointment to speak with the king, it is such a momentous occasion that in preparation for even a brief audience, the person dons brand new clothes and buys new shoes. He will need to know in advance what to speak about and, more importantly, how to speak to a king.

How does such a person prepare himself? He contacts an official or a lawmaker who is intricately familiar with the laws and customs of speaking to a king, and who will advise him on how to get a message across to a king.

The same applies spiritually: G-d intended for you to get involved in a specific type of business through which you became, Baruch HaShem, very wealthy. Now your avodah (task) is also to give tzedakah (charity). There are times during the year, like Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, when it is relatively easy for a Yid to communicate directly with G-d. However, reaching G-d on your own on a regular basis is a very difficult task. You go to a tzadik (holy man), who knows how to speak to G-d, and this tzadik communicates on your behalf.

Regarding your question of free will: A wealthy and respectable person who wants to build a house still needs to find a contractor who will actually do the work, an architect to make the blueprints etc.; he will have to find someone specific for each detail of the house. In building a house it is impossible for one person to do everything.

It is true that there may be some people who are wealthy and they are also contractors themselves and this person can build a house on his own, but only a select few individuals can do all things involved in building a house.

When this wealthy person builds a house, the fact that he relies on various different people, with different professions, doesn't mean that his image as a wealthy and respectful person is diminished. Rather, he needs money to pay other professionals to do the various tasks, and without money, he indeed would not get anywhere.

The same in spirituality: a Yid who is occupied with business and with giving charity still needs a tzadik for help. On his own, a Yid does not have sufficient merits; he therefore needs the tzadik to elevate him closer to G-d.

For example: how do you connect a Yid here in Brooklyn who gives money in order to help free a Yid in Russia? How a can a Yid in Russia give someone a part in a mitzvah? The same thing regarding a Yid from here who gives money, enabling a Yid in Tel Aviv to don tefillin -- how are those two people connected?

The fact that the Yid from here is connected to me and the Yid who is in Russia is also connected to me, and I know how to speak to the Above, I connect both of these Yidden together. I am a physical human being like you. It is just that G-d gave me the strength to help out Yidden.

Monday, April 6, 2009

The Rebbe And Children

In honor of Yud Aleph Nissan, the Rebbe’s birthday, the Avner Institute is proud to present a first-time released photo of the Rebbe entering 770 in the winter of 1979. Special thanks to the Rebbe Archive and to Mrs. Brod.

A Happy & Healthy Passover!

Menachem

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Jewish Leaders Meet In Brooklyn

In honor of Yud Alef Nissan, the day the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Menachem Mendel Schneerson, was born (April 18, 1902), The Avner Institute, together with the Rebbe Archive, is proud to present two new photos with a recollection written by Mr. Yehuda Avner for the Jerusalem Post, Oct 5, 2004.

A Happy & Healthy Passover!

Menachem

Mr. Yehuda Avner Relats:

"SOME TIME later, on a balmy July day in 1977, Menachem Begin was similarly confronted. A bushy-haired reporter in a baggy suit asked him with Village Voice effrontery, "You are the newly elected prime minister of Israel, so why have you come to see Rabbi Schneerson? Surely, protocol requires he come to you.

"This altercation took place on the steps of the Lubavitch headquarters, where the Rebbe was welcoming Mr. Begin amid a blaze of photo flashes. "Why, indeed?" the prime minister began with easy rapport. "A good question."And then, with an air of deep reverence,

"I have come here because I am en route to Washington to meet President Jimmy Carter for the first time. So it is most natural for me to want to seek the blessings of this great sage of the Jewish people. Rabbi Schneerson is one of the paramount Jewish personalities of our time. His status is unique among our people. So yes, certainly, his blessings will strengthen me as I embark on a mission of acute importance for our future."

"Would the rabbi care to comment on that?" asked the reporter.He said, "Only to reiterate my fullest blessings. And to add, I accept the honor of the prime minister's visit to me not on my own account but in recognition of the Lubavitch movement's dedicated work in spreading the love of God and His Torah among our fellow Jews, wherever they be.

"The two men had been friends for years, and they closeted themselves for a good hour, at the end of which Mr. Begin informed Rabbi Schneerson that I would return to New York from Washington to brief him on the White House talks"

A Warm Welcome

The Rebbe greets a group of Canadian guests, during the summer of 1984, on the way to his father-in-law’s gravesite.

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

How To Deal With Depression? A Unique Letter of The Rebbe

Where does depression come from? Is it in any way positive? In the following letter the Rebbe addresses a student who was going through difficult times that it’s all in the mind, and in that the mind can change more easily than we think. Included is a newly released photo, courtesy of the Rebbe Archive.

By the Grace of G-d
27th of Teveth,

5721 Brooklyn, NY

Mr. ----- 5265 Park Avenue Montreal 8, Que.

Greeting and Blessing:

I received your letter and enclosures.

It is explained in many places in Chasidus, beginning with the Tanya, about the negative aspects of all forms of sadness, depression, despondency, etc. It is also clear from experience that these attitudes belong to the bag of tricks of the Yetzer Hora in order to distract the Jew from serving G-d. To achieve this end the Yetzer Hora sometimes even clothes itself in the mantle of piety.

The true test, however, is what the results are, whether these attitudes bring about an improvement in, and a fuller measure of Torah and Mitzvos, or the reverse. This should be easy to determine.

On the other hand we have been assured that “He who is determined to purify himself receives Divine help.” The road to purity and holiness, however, is one that should be trodden step by step, and by gradual and steady advancement.

Needless to say, the idea of your continuing at the Yeshivah for some time is the right one. As for the question how and what to write to your parents, I suggest that you consult with Rabbi Joseph Weinberg, who knows them personally, and who could give you some useful suggestions.
Hoping to hear good news from you in all above,

With blessing,
(signature)

Good Shabbos

Menachem.

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

The Senator And The Rebbe

The Rebbe gives a hearty welcome to Senator Jacob Javitz, shown here with his grandson, in a private audience where the topics Jewish lineage and education were combined. The Avner Institute is proud to present this newly released photo of the Yechidus, along with a fond recollection by Rabbi Groner, a member of the Rebbe’s secretariat who was present at the time.

Children & Grandchildren

Rabbi Groner relates:

At time of this yechidus (audience), Senator Jacob Javitz was chairman of the Senate Judicial Committee. The senator told the Rebbe that before coming to the visit he had asked his staff to prepare a survey comparing the crime rates between public and religious schools. It was found that while certain crimes – over 70% – took place in public schools, the same crimes were either nil or of very low occurrence (1-2%) in religious schools.“According to this,”

The Rebbe answered, “we see the importance of having religious education. Only through religious education can students be taught how to behave properly.” He urged the senator to find a way to publicize the results of this survey and to have parents enroll their children in parochial schools. Senator Javitz, however, argued that this was not the position of the Senate. “If that’s the case,” the Rebbe said, “at least publicize your results and show the difference between children who are educated in public schools and those who are educated in religious schools.

Show how religious schools prevent them from doing things that are negative and against the law.”The Rebbe also mentioned that he believed Senator Javitz was directly descended from Rabbi Yaakov Emden, known as the Yavitz, which was the Hebrew equivalent of Javitz. “Therefore,” the Rebbe said, “conduct of a descendent of the Yavitz should be in accordance to the wishes of your forefather Yaakov Emden.”

Good Shabbos

Menachem

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

How To Resolve Conflict? A Beautiful Letter of The Rebbe.

The Avner Institute is proud to present a letter from the Rebbe to a frustrated Jew who had left the Torah path and written him explaining why. Included is a newly released photo of the Rebbe, with special thanks to the Rebbe Archive.

B”H 15 Iyar,

5738 Brooklyn, NY

Sholom Ubrocho:

I am in receipt of your letter of May 13, in which you write about your present state and feelings toward Jews, Yiddishkeit, the Torah, etc., which you blame on the attitude towards you on the part of the Yeshiva and its students.

Needless to say the connection is most surprising, for it is plain and obvious that a Jew, whoever he may be, who believes in the Torah and does his best to observe its mitzvoth, does it because of his personal commitment to G-d’s Torah and mitzvoth, which were given to each and every Jew at Sinai, and as our Sages tell us that the souls of all Jews of all generations were present there and accepted the Torah and mitzvoth. Hence, if a Jew should declare, G-d forbid, that he does not accept the Ten Commandments because his friends or teacher do not conduct themselves as they should – I do not think that anyone will say that this is a proper or sensible approach.

To put it a different way: If a teacher whom you respect will say that two times two is five, it is incorrect; and if a teacher whom you do not respect will say that two times two is four, it is nevertheless correct, for Torah is independent. Judging by your writing, there is surely no need to elaborate to you on what is self-evident. As for you, your complaint about your friends’ attitude toward you – it is also clear that neither I nor anyone else can make a judgment on this without first hearing what both sides have to say.

Now, let us assume – from your point of view – that you have reasons to complain – surely you know, and must have seen it yourself from other situations where people have a disagreement, that in every dispute between two people it is impossible that one should be 100% right and the other 100% wrong. It would be rare indeed, if it ever happened, although one does not have to be 100% right to win his case, and 99% against 1% is also sufficient. But when one of the parties, who is personally involved and subsequently subjective, claims to be 100% right and all the other 100% wrong,

this is most extraordinary. Don’t you think that someone who examines the whole situation objectively may find you also wrong, at least to the extent to 1%? If this be very likely, how is it that you don’t mention anything about it in your letter, not even by as much as a hint? All that has been said above is by way of response to your writing, dealing with the “letter” as distinct from the “spirit.”

The crucial point, however, is that suffice it to consider the fact that Yiddishkeit, Torah and mitzvoth, and the Jewish people have survived 3500 years of persecution, pogroms, the Holocaust, etc., and yet our people are alive and thriving to this day, while many powerful nations and “civilizations” have disappeared without a remnant – to be convinced (despite your assertions in the beginning of your letter) that the Torah is Toras Emes, and its mitzvoth are Emes, and that “they are our life and the length of our days,” both for our Jewish people as a whole and for every Jew individually.

It is also self-understood that G-d desires Jews to observe his mitzvoth not for His benefit, but for the benefit of the one who lives in accordance with G-d’s Will. In light of the above, I hope and trust that you will do all that is in your power to learn the Torah with devotion and diligence and to fulfill the mitzvoth with hiddur – not because I, or anyone else, tells you to do this, but because it is the Truth itself, as has been amply verified by the uninterrupted history of our people from generation to generation. And although this is an obvious “must” for its own sake, this is also the channel to receive G-d’s blessing for hatzlocho in all your needs, as well as for your parents and all your dear ones.

With blessing,

M. Schneerson

Good Shabbos.

Menachem

Thursday, March 5, 2009

New Photo of the Rebbe

The Avner Institute is proud to present a first-released photograph of the Rebbe, at a farbrengen in the mid 1970's - with special thanks to Rebbe Archive.

Good Shabbos,

Menachem

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

"The Nature of Music" A Beautiful Letter of The Rebbe.

What is unique about Chabad nigunim? What makes them so special?

The following is a beautiful letter of the Rebbe, written to a Chosson who asked if he could play Chabad nigunim at his wedding. Also attached is a first-time released photo of the Rebbe, with special thanks to Rebbe Archive.

By the Grace of G-d
Chanukah 5722
Brooklyn, NY

Blessing and Greeting:

I am in receipt of your letter, and I hasten my reply as requested, and because time is of the essence in this case.

You write that you would like to use some of the published Nigunim of Chabad at your forthcoming marriage and ask my opinion about it.

My reply is as follows: There could be an advantage, or otherwise, in using these Nigunim depending on the circumstances (a) or (b).

If – as is expected of every Jewish girl and boy who are about to be married the marriage is entered into with a firm resolution to establish a truly Jewish home, on the foundation of the Torah and Mitzvoth, and likewise, or course, the preparations before the wedding are also as they should, with observance of the laws and regulations of Taharas Hamishpocho (which an observant rabbi has no doubt explained to you), and the Chuppah and Kiddushin is carried out by an Orthodox rabbi, etc. – then the use of the Lubavitcher Nigunim would not only be appropriate, but also desirable and auspicious. For a Nigun is closely linked with the soul of its author and those who have used it on sacred occasions (which is also the reason for the above-mentioned condition that everything connected with the wedding should be in according to the Torah, since the Torah was their whole life and ideal).

On the other hand, if, G-d forbid, there is a deficiency in the above conditions From the viewpoint of the Torah and Shulchan Aruch, the inference is obvious. However, I do not wish to dwell on this, since I feel certain that, judging by your letter, everything is in accordance with the Torah and Shulchan Aruch, and moreover, that there is a constant effort to advance in all matters of Torah and Mitzvoth, in accordance with the principle that all things of holiness should be on the ascendancy, as also indicated by the message of the Chanukah lights which are kindled in increasing number.

On the basis of this firm belief, I extend to you and your Chosson my prayerful wishes that the marriage take place in a happy and auspicious hour and that you should both build a Binyan adei ad.

With the blessing of Mazal Tov.

M. Schneerson

Thursday, February 19, 2009

A New Photo of The Rebbe.

The Avner Institute is proud to present the following first-time released photo of the Rebbe taken in the mid-1970s by a visiting student of Cornell University.

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

"Mrs.Schneerson Told Me About The Request"

Monday, 22 Shevat (February 16), marks the 21st anniversary of the passing of Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka Schneerson, of blessed memory. The Avner institute is pleased to present two charming encounters related by Rabbi Shmuel Lew, Headmaster of the Lubavitch Senior Girls School, London, U.K., whose family over the years had warm relations with the Rebbetzin. Also attached is a unique photo of the Rebbe, courtesy of the Rebbe Archive.

LIKE THE REBBETZIN

My father-in-law, Zalmon Jaffe a"h, born in Manchester, UK, was a descendent of Chabad Chassidim. He and his wife Roselyn were privileged to enjoy a close relationship with the Rebbe.

On Shavuos 5728 (1968) my father-in-law was invited to the yom tov meal with the Rebbe at the home of the Rebbe's mother-in-law Rebbetzin Nechama Dina, widow of the previous Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn. After yom tov the Rebbe met with my in-laws in yechidus. "Mrs. Jaffe," he asked, "did you permit your husband to have the meal with me rather than with you?"

"Yes," Roselyn answered.

"You didn't mind?" the Rebbe wondered.

My mother-in-law explained, "When I saw the Rebbetzin forgo it [i.e., having a meal with the Rebbe], I also gave it up – and with simcha (happily)." The Rebbe exclaimed, "The Rebbetzin gave it up for forty years already!"

THE REBBE'S PREFERENCE

it was during that visit that my wife got a look at the Rebbe's menorah. In spite of a large and ornate menorah in the Rebbe's house, the Rebbe preferred to light Chanukah candles from a small and simple one. This connects to another encounter between the Rebbe and my father-in-law.

On the Rebbe's 80th birthday -- 11 Nissan 5742 (1982) -- my father-in-law wanted to present the Rebbe with a beautiful silver decanter. He simply felt it wasn't fitting for the Rebbe to be handed a plain bottle of wine in a paper bag at farbrengens. But worried the Rebbe wouldn't use it, my father-in-law first wrote to the Rebbetzin, explaining the Manchester community's desire to buy the Rebbe a silver decanter but not wanting to do something against the Rebbe's wishes. He asked the Rebbetzin to consult with her husband and promised to call a week later for the answer. My father-in-law was courageous, and so a week later he phoned the Rebbetzin.

The Rebbetzin said that the Rebbe had not reacted. A day or two later, my father-in-law received a letter from the Rebbe at the end of which lay the Rebbe's response.

P.S. Mrs. Schneerson told me about the request about the bottle and the paper bag, and forgive me, but we will have to accept the thought as though it actually happened, but I prefer a bottle with a paper bag more than a beautiful, silver bottle.

The Rebbe added, There are many reasons, but I'll tell you one of them that I hope you will understand. I do not want to make a barrier between my way of life and the way of life of those around me. He gave an example: I have many silver esrog boxes, but I prefer to use a cardboard box.

Good Shabbos.
Menachem.

Friday, February 6, 2009

"The Rebbe Looked Deep Inside of Me"

The following is part two of a fascinating encounter that Daniel a member of the Chabad house in Antwerp experienced with the Rebbe, special thanks to Rabbi Shabtai Slavaticki and the editorial staff of the Avner institute for putting this together, also attached is a Unique photo of the Rebbe special thanks to Rebbe Archive for the picture (RebbeArchive@Gmail.com)

An Overview

In Part 1, "Daniel," a Baal Teshuva, has embraced Jewish observance. Eagerly taking on the mitzvoth, he has severed ties with his past life – except one: a Gentile girlfriend. He is torn between wanting to marry her yet wanting to adhere to the tenets of his faith. Finally, revealing his agony to a trusted rabbi and friend, he is advised to see the Rebbe.

Rabbi Slavaticki relates:

Sunday in 770, Hundreds of people form a patient line, lasting hours. Although all of the rivers of the world flow into the ocean, the ocean never becomes full. Each and every river is different. Yet each and every river finds itself drawn in the same direction, longing to pour itself out. So too, every individual is different.

Each person follows a different path in life – his or her own problems, questions, thoughts -- yet all are attracted to the same "head." The Rebbe greets everyone with the same love, without distinction between great and small. People are serious as they await their turn, hearts pounding. Daniel is also solemn as he recites Tehillim(Psalms) and practices (for the umpteenth time) the words he is planning to say to the Rebbe.

The line moves slowly as Daniel inches closer. Up the stairs, turning the corner, finally he has reached the "Lower Gan Eden." And then, Daniel finds himself face to face with the Rebbe. "At first," he told me afterward, "the only thing I could see was the Rebbe's holy eyes. The Rebbe looked deep inside of me.

All the words I'd prepared flew right out of my head. In the Rebbe's presence, my mind stopped working. I felt completely

Exposed and transparent.

"I could not utter a sound. The Rebbe held out a dollar but when I tried to take it, he would not let go. For a long moment we stood there like that, both of us holding opposite ends of the dollar bill. The whole time the Rebbe kept gazing at me, a look filled with kindness and love. I could feel myself calming down." Daniel described what followed.

"I have a problem," he blurted. The Rebbe tilted his head slightly. "I've started to become more observant," Daniel explained, "but I have a girlfriend who isn't Jewish and I'm planning on marrying her." Daniel fell silent; what else could he say?

Mere words could not express the turbulence of his emotions, yet he sensed that the Rebbe understood exactly what he meant, what was going on inside. Daniel braced himself for a rebuke. He expected to be reprimanded, to be told by the Rebbe how grave a transgression it was to intermarry. Surely, the Rebbe would say something about Gehinnom and Gan Eden, as did the non-Chabad rabbis Daniel had consulted. But the Rebbe said nothing.

His holy face was serious, yet there was an imperceptible smile on his lips. "I envy you," he finally said. At first, Daniel could not quite grasp the meaning. All kinds of thoughts ran through his head: The Rebbe is holy of holies; I am small and insignificant. The Rebbe, who is on the highest spiritual plane, is envious of me—someone on the lowest?

"I can't remember the Rebbe's exact words," Daniel told me, "but their meaning was indelibly marked on my soul."

"He said, 'There are many ladders in life; the ladder is the individual's free will. The Holy One, Blessed Be He, gives every person free will, which is a ladder reaching all the way to heaven. The test you are facing is a challenge.

It will elevate you to the greatest heights. "'I personally,' the Rebbe said, 'have never been presented with this test. "'If G-d gives you a challenge, it means He believes you can overcome it. He is giving you the strength to withstand the test and to succeed.' Only then did the Rebbe relinquish the dollar bill and allow me to take it.

"I'm not sure what happened next, but a few seconds later I found myself in a corner of 770 crying like a baby. I could feel the tears cleansing me, washing away all the dirt. "Someone came over and gently asked me if I wanted a drink. Without waiting for a reply he handed me small bottle of water. I took a sip and felt better. "I returned to Belgium and became another person entirely. My encounter with the Rebbe totally transformed my life." Daniel had taken the challenge. He ascended the ladder. Today, he lives as a full-fledged Jew in Eretz Yisroel, where is he raising a fine Chasidic family. And the analogy is understood.

His Own Ladder

Daniel was made to understand that life's difficulties are ladders leading upward, that trials and tribulations are merely challenges. There is no other way to ascend. Even if the ladder appears crooked or shaky, it is still the only way up.

Good Shabbos
Menachem

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

The Rebbe "Daniel I Envy You"

The following is part one of an intense, mind-altering encounter between Daniel, from Chabad of Antwerp, and the Rebbe. Special thanks to Rabbi Shabtai Slavaticki and the editorial staff of the Avner Institute. Also attached is a first-time released photo of the Rebbe, courtesy of the Rebbe Archive (RebbeArchive@gmail.com).

Rabbi Slavaticki Relates:

"I first met Daniel at the Chabad House when someone brought him over for a visit. A tall young man, with a refined and intelligent face, he worked in computer operations for the European Common Market. Sometimes it can take weeks, months, or even years until two people make a connection. Other times the connection is made instantly. It might have something to do with gilgulim (past lives) or the celestial source of souls.

Whatever the case, we hit it off at once. Daniel loved to learn and expressed interest in the deepest concepts in Chasidus. With his quick mind and unusual sensitivity he absorbed everything; he could bring the highest, most abstract concepts down into the practical and relate them to the world and people around him. Most importantly, however, was the way Chasidus changed him. A new world had suddenly opened up. Daniel began to understand himself better and find answers to his questions. Within a short time he was laying tefillin, keeping kosher, and observing Shabbos.

Every few weeks Daniel would make a trip to Italy, especially on his time off. Whenever I asked him why, he answered, "To meet friends." I always found something strange about this, or more accurately, I always read something between the lines. He never looked me in the face when he said it; rather he seemed to toss it in at the end of our conversation, as if wishing to relieve himself of a burden. Once we were at the Chabad House until the middle of the night.

A long farbrengen (Chasidic gathering) had just ended. Still under the spell of the niggunim (melodies) and the magic of the Chasidic stories, we found it difficult to get back to "real life." It was then that Daniel approached me and opened up. "I think I'm a little tipsy," he began sheepishly."It's not the mashkeh (drink), it's the farbrengen," I explained.

"A Chasidic farbrengen is like a fiery furnace. It brings the inner Jew to a 'boil' so that all the chitzoniyus (externals) evaporate and the penimiyus (inwardness) becomes more concentrated. After a farbrengen, we are more 'real.' Some people know what is required of them, but they're not sure 'where they're holding.' Others, however, have the merit to know both what they must do and where they're holding. I could see that Daniel took the hint. He gave me a weak smile. "You already know," he said, "that it's been awhile since I started becoming more observant, although everything is relative. Over the last few months I've severed all my ties to the past with the exception of one." He trembled and lowered his voice. "I just can't do it.

If I take this step, it will tear me apart. Nothing of me will remain." I didn't ask him what the tie was; I knew it was something I shouldn't ask, something he had to tell me himself. Daniel was obviously uncomfortable. It seemed as if he was staring in the mirror for the first time and suddenly seeing himself as he really was, all the masks removed. Daniel averted his eyes, and I was reminded of his trips to Italy. It suddenly occurred to me that this might be the one tie that still bound him. "I have a girlfriend," he finally mumbled, "but she isn't . . . one of us."

He lapsed for a moment into silence. "Some of my friends have suggested she convert, but I don't think it would be right. Conversion is too holy to profane simply for the sake of my conscience; it would be defiled if there were ulterior motives. If someone converts to Judaism just to get married, it isn't a real conversion. So I've never even mentioned it to her.

"I went to a few different rabbis – specifically not Chabad – for help, and each one told me what a terrible sin it is to intermarry. Some of them even described the punishment in Gehinnom that awaits someone like me, but nothing they said convinced me to break it off. I'm not sure I can do it." Daniel was trembling; I could sense the battle royal raging inside him. The look he gave me almost broke my heart. "Help me!" he pleaded wordlessly.

Save me from myself!" Source of All Souls "Your problem," I slowly replied, "is universal, something we all face. It all goes back to the strangest shidduch in the world: the 'marriage' between the body and the soul. "The body and soul are essentially different, completely dissimilar in their likes, dislikes and loyalties. Yet not only do they have to live with one another, each one has to complete the other and make it whole. The funniest thing is, it works -- the greatest proof being that after 120 years, neither wants to be parted from the other. You are being pulled between the desires of the body and the desires of the soul." "What should I do?" Daniel cried. "Where can I get the power to free myself?"

If a well runs dry," I answered, "building a beautiful house over it won't help. The only solution is to dig deeper, all the way down to the water's source. You too must dig deeper until you reach your roots. There you will find the strength you need, as well as the answer to your questions." Daniel was puzzled.

"What do you mean?" "I mean it's time to go to the Rebbe!" By now I had his full attention. He no longer tense and desperate; rather, he waited, listening intently.

"Go to the Rebbe, There you'll find your answers and the strength you need. I didn't have to urge him further. A few days later Daniel was already at 770, standing in the long line for dollars. He waited there in excitement over his very first yechidus (audience) with the Rebbe.

Good Shabbos.

Menachem.

Sunday, February 1, 2009

Unique New Photo of The Rebbe.

In honor of Kinus Hashluchim, I am happy to present a photo of the Rebbe from the Year of 5724/1964, released for the first time. Special thanks to Rabbi Goldstein and to the "Rebbe Archive" for the picture.

Good Shabbos.

Menachem.

Thursday, January 1, 2009

The New York Times on "Hey Teves"

In connection with Hey Teves, the following is an article from the New York Times, January 7, 1987, titled "Judge awards Rabbi's Library to Hasidic Unit" written by Ari Goldman. Included is an interesting picture of the Rebbe, Special thanks to the Rebbe Archive For the picture.

"It is total loyalty. And therefore, the Rebbe owes the Chassid total loyalty. So, for the community, the Rebbe must have total generosity and compassion. Also, he has even more responsibility. That's why he is a Rebbe"

- From Elie Wiesel's Court Testimony

LEAD: The question of who owns a valuable Jewish library of more than 40,000 books and manuscripts was decided yesterday when a Federal District judge in Brooklyn rejected the claims of a grandson of a Hasidic rabbi and awarded the library instead to the Lubavitch community that the rabbi once headed.

The question of who owns a valuable Jewish library of more than 40,000 books and manuscripts was decided yesterday when a Federal District judge in Brooklyn rejected the claims of a grandson of a Hasidic rabbi and awarded the library instead to the Lubavitch community that the rabbi once headed.

In a decision peppered with Hebrew and Yiddish phrases that includes a short course on Lubavitch history, Judge Charles P. Sifton of the Eastern District declared that his findings were ''inescapable.''

''The conclusion is inescapable that the library was not held by the Sixth Rebbe at his death as his personal property, but had been delivered to plaintiff to be held in trust for the benefit of the religious community of Chabad Chasidism,'' he said.

The ruling was received with joy on the streets in front of the headquarters of the plaintiff, the Lubavitch movement, at 770 Eastern Parkway in the Crown Heights section of Brooklyn. Hasidic men in traditional black garb danced in circles to the music of a klezmer band. Issue Divided Family

A lawyer for the defendant, Barry S. Gourary, said he planned to appeal the decision.
The ruling capped an emotional legal battle that divided the family of the seventh and current Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, an uncle of Mr. Gourary, and opened the inner workings of the Hasidic movement to the public.

In a three-week trial in December 1985, the case was argued by prominent lawyers, including Nathan Lewin of Washington and Alvin K. Hellerstein of New York. Non-Hasidic experts in Hasidism were called, including Elie Wiesel, the Nobel laureate, Dr. Louis Jacobs of London and Rabbi Arthur Green of Philadelphia.

Mr. Gourary, a 63-year-old management consultant from Montclair, N.J., claimed that the library was the private property of his grandfather, Rabbi Joseph I. Schneerson, and was passed down - via his widow and his two daughters - to him. #400 Books Removed The Lubavitch went into court to establish its claim of ownership after Mr. Gourary removed 400 of the books from the library, at the Crown Heights headquarters, and began selling them to rare-book dealers in Europe. He made $186,000 before he was enjoined by the courts from proceeding with the sales.

Judge Sifton, who was married to the daughter of the late Christian theologian Reinhold Niebuhr, uses the language of the Lubavitchers throughout his 41-page decision. He writes of ksovim (manuscripts), seforim (books), ma'amad (dues), pidyon (redemption) and haas v'sholom! (God forbid!). The judge also prefered the Hebrew-sounding ''Chasid' to the Anglicized 'Hasid' and often refers to the Lubavitchers by their communal name, Chabad.

To a large extent, the decision turns on what the judge calls ''one extraordinary letter'' from Rabbi Joseph Schneerson, the sixth rebbe, to an American scholar, Dr. Alexander Marks, the former head of the library at the Jewish Theological Seminary in New York. The letter was written in 1946 as part of the rabbi's effort to get the library out of Poland. Leaving the books behind, the rabbi had fled the Nazis six years earlier and set up a new Lubavitch headquarters in Brooklyn.

''I turn to you with a great request,'' Dr. Schneerson wrote, ''that as a renowned authority on the subject, you should please write a letter to the State Department to testify on the great value of these manuscripts and books for the Jewish people in general and particularly for the Jewish community of the United States to whom this great possession belongs"
.
Lawyers for Mr. Gourary characterized the letter as ''duplicitous and of a piece with the wartime letters in German intended to be read by the Nazi censor,'' according to the judge.

But Judge Sifton rejected the argument. ''Not only does the letter, even in translation, ring with feeling and sincerity,'' he wrote, ''it does not make much sense that a man of the character of the Sixth Rebbe would, in the circumstances, mean something different than what he says, that the library was to be delivered to plaintiff for the benefit of the community.''

Good Shabbos,

Menachem,

Major Book on the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Schneerson, Released

By Hallie Cantor Acquisitions, Hedi Steinberg Library Stern College for Women

THE REBBE: INSPIRING A GENERATION gives an insightful look into the world of this most private and amazing figure. Included are rare photographs, encounters of the Rebbe's close family circle, and introductions by noted scholars Professor Dr. Lawrence Schiffman (Dead Sea Scrolls scholar), Simon Jacobson, Rabbi Shmuel Lew, Bentzion Rader, Dr. Audi Gazlon, and Rabbi Nachman Bernhard.

Covering everything – interviews with the Rebbe on his role and mission; audiences with notable figures; letters and essays on an array of topics – this book will enhance appreciation of the Rebbe's far-reaching influence, both as a Jewish and a world leader.To Buy the Book click here: www.inspiringageneration.org

Thursday, December 11, 2008

The Rebbe Pointed At Me: Here Is G-D

The following is a part two of the encounter that took place in the front of 770 where a group of Bachurim (yeshiva students) saw a young man in long hair and boots approach the Rebbe, who waved his finger around and then pointed at this man's chest.

What happened there? What did the Rebbe say? The encounter is retold by the former "young man" himself. Also attached, is a first time released picture of the Rebbe. Special thanks to the RebbeArchive@Gmail.com for the picture.

Mr. Elliot Relates:

It was January 1973. I was a law student at SUNY Buffalo and at the time had two serious questions on Judaism that were bothering me. So I called up Rabbi Nosson Gurary, director of the campus Chabad house, and asked him the questions. His reply to me was: "The only one who can answer you is the Rebbe. He is based in Brooklyn, New York. Go to him and he will help you."

Rabbi Gurari told me that the Rebbe came to 770 to daven mincha every afternoon at about 3:00, so this was the time I could possibly meet him.

I arrived at 770 from Manhattan, where I was staying with a group of friends. Rabbi Hendel, a relative of Rabbi Gurary, helped me out by lending me a kippah (skullcap).

I glanced around 770. Suddenly hearing it was the time for the Rebbe to appear, I hurried to the front of 770 outside.

There I was, decked in jeans, snakeskin boots, with hair down my back and a couple of earrings. The Rebbe, meanwhile, emerged from his car. Immediately I approached him, and we stood there, in front of the steps leading to 770.

"Excuse me," I asked, "are you the Lubavitcher Rebbe?"

"Yes," the Rebbe answered. Then he asked, "What is your name, and where are you from?"

So I told the Rebbe my name and family name. Then I said, "Can I ask you a question?"
"Ask," the Rebbe replied.

"Where is G-d?"

"Everywhere."

"I know, but where?"

This time the Rebbe replied with his finger. "Everywhere. He is in a rock. He is in a tree . . . ."
"I know, but where?" I pressed. "I really want to know where."

The Rebbe pointed directly at me. "In your heart. If this is how you ask."

I then asked the Rebbe, "Can I speak to you in English?"

I continued, "When we say 'Shema Yisroel' [Hear O Israel], whether it is a Black person saying it or an Indian saying it, there is one G-d for all of us. But does it have the same meaning for them as for us?"

The Rebbe answered, "The essence of a Black man is to be what he is; the essence of an Indian is to be what he is. But the essence of a yid [Jew] is tied to G-d through the fulfillment of Torah and mitzvoth. So for us it has a different meaning."

The Rebbe concluded that I should learn the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch [Abridged Code of Jewish Law] and begin laying tefillin [phylacteries] every day.

During our conversation, my contact with the Rebbe was so powerful that it left me virtually transported. After he said goodbye and entered 770, I began to cry. I felt that the truth I was looking for had come at last.

Good Shabbos.
Menachem.

Thursday, December 4, 2008

"When Tragedy Strikes" A Beautiful Letter of The Rebbe.

The following is a beautiful letter of the Rebbe that was sent to Mrs. Rose Goldfield, sister of the famed Chassid Reb Zalman Jaffe o.b.m. On March 17, 1975, Mrs. Goldfield, who resided in the Ramat Eshkol neighborhood of Jerusalem, had lost her son in a car accident, which left her devastated. The Rebbe responded with a letter that ultimately consoled her.

As Rabbi Jaffe relates in his famous diaries, My Encounter with the Rebbe:

On Erev Pesach, 5735 [March 26, 1975], the Rebbe wrote to me a beautiful Pesach-letter. At the end was the following postscript:

"P.S. The copy of my letter is sent to you confidentially. I was prompted to write to your sister by your report, which is also what prompted me to write in unusual for me terms. May G-d grant that henceforth, at any rate, she will find a growing measure of peace of mind."

Attached to this letter below is an interesting picture of the Rebbe, courtesy of the Rebbearchive@gmail.com.

By the Grace of G-d

5th of Nissan, 5735 [March 17, 1975]

Brooklyn, N.Y.

Mrs. Rose Goldfield

13 Yam Suf

Ramat Eshkol, Jerusalem

Blessing and Greeting:

I am in receipt of your correspondence, and trust that you received my regards through your brother R' Zalmen who was here for the Yud Shevat observance.

I must reiterate again what was said when you were here in regard to bitochon [trust] in G-d, that all He does is for the good. It is not easy to accept the passing of a near and dear one; but since our Torah, which is called Toras Chesed and Toras Chayim [Torah of kindness and Torah of life], our guide in life, sets limits to mourning periods, it is clear that when the period ends it is no good to extend it – not good, not only because it disturbs the life that must go on here on earth, but also because it does not please the soul that is in the World of Truth.

A further point which, I believe, I mentioned during our conversation, but apparently from your letter not

emphatically enough, is this: It would be contrary to plain common sense to assume that a sickness, or accident, and the like, could affect the soul, for such physical things can affect only the physical body and its union with the soul, but certainly not the soul itself.

It is also self-evident that the relationship between parents and children is in essence and content a spiritual one, transcending time and space – of qualities that are not subject to the influence of bodily accident, disease, etc.

It follows that when a close person passes on, by the will of G-d, those left here can no longer see him with their eyes or hear him with their ears; but the soul, in the World of Truth, can see and hear. And when he sees that the relatives are overly disturbed by his physical absence, it is saddened; and, conversely, when it sees that after the mourning period prescribed by the Torah a normal and fully productive life is resumed, it can happily rest in peace.

Needless to say, in order that the above be accepted not only intellectually but actually implemented in everyday life, it is necessary to be occupied, preferably involved, with matters of "personal" interest and gratification. As I also mentioned in our conversation, every Jew has a most gratifying and edifying task of spreading light in the world through promoting yiddishkeit [Judaism]. Particularly, as in your case, where one can be of so much help and inspiration to children and grandchildren who look up to you and your husband for en-couragement, wisdom, etc.

Here is also the answer to your question, what you can do for the soul of the dear one. Spreading yiddishkeit around you effectively, displaying simple Yiddish faith in G-d and in His benevolent Providence, doing all the good work that has to be done with confidence and peace of mind – this is what truly gratifies the soul in Olam haEmes [World of Truth], in addition to fulfilling your personal and most lofty mission in life as a daughter of our Mothers Sarah, Rivkah, Rachel and Leah, and therefore also serving as an inspiring example for others to emulate.

It is possible to enlarge upon the above, but knowing your family background and tradition, I trust the above will suffice. I might add, however, that one must be aware of the yetzer-hara [evil inclination] who is very crafty and knows that certain people cannot be approached openly and without disguise. So he tries to trick them by disguising himself in a mantle of piety and emotionalism, etc.,

saying: You know, G-d has prescribed a period of mourning, which shows that it is the right thing to do; so why not do more than that and extend the period? In this way, he may have a chance to succeed in distracting the person from the fact that at the end of the said period, the Torah requires the Jew to serve G-d with joy. The yetzer-hara will even encourage a person to give tzedokah [charity] in memory of the soul, learn Torah and do mitzvos in memory of the soul, except that in each case it be associated with sadness and pain. But, as indicated, this is exactly contrary to the objective, which is to cause pleasure and gratification to the soul.

May G-d grant that, inasmuch [as] we are approaching the Festival of Our Freedom, including also freedom from everything that distracts a Jew from serving G-d wholeheartedly and with joy, that this should be so also with you, in the midst of all our people, and that you should be a source of inspiration and strength to your husband, children and grandchildren, and all around you."

Reprinted with permission from the forthcoming volume of My Encounter with the Rebbe, volume two, www.myencounter.com.

Good Shabbos.

Menachem

Friday, November 28, 2008

Dear Rebbe: Where Is G-d?

The following is part one of an encounter with a Jew from Buffalo, New York, who came to 770 to see the Rebbe. It was a meeting that lasted only sixty seconds but forever changed this person's life. Special thanks to Rabbi Shabtai Slavaticki for his recollection of this encounter, and to the RebbeArchive@Gmail.Com for the photograph.

A Stranger Approaches the

Rebbe

"It was just a "regular" weekday. We were standing by the entrance to 770, Suddenly, a rumor spread: "The Rebbe is coming out... The Rebbe is Coming out... "

The door opened and the Rebbe stepped out. There was absolute silence, a complete hush. All eyes were focused on the Rebbe. Each one of us gazed at the Rebbe with his own private thoughts and feelings. Some of us looked at the Rebbe with love, others with awe, still others with a sense of shame. Many took the opportunity to pray.

The Rebbe strode in the direction of the waiting car, as Rabbi Krinsky Opened the door. In another moment the Rebbe would enter the car, the door would close, and he would begin the short trip home. I didn't notice him until the Rebbe was going towards the steps.

He was standing on the sidewalk, near the brick railing opposite the Rebbe's room. He was a tall young man, with a clean-shaven, refined-looking face. I judged him to be approximately 25 years old. The yarmulke perched atop his head looked slightly embarrassed, like a guest who had yet to find a comfortable position. In fact, the yarmulke revealed everything about him...

As soon as he saw the Rebbe come out of 770, he walked up the steps towards him, although we could sense his hesitation. It was also obvious that He was very emotional. I think we all stopped breathing. Who was this guy? And what did he want From the Rebbe? The Rebbe paused and turned his holy head in the young man's direction. We All saw him say something to the Rebbe, but we couldn't hear what it was. All we could do was watch from afar as the Rebbe gave him his attention. When the young man finished, the Rebbe looked at him and uttered a few words.

At the same time, the Rebbe lifted his holy hands into the air and made a wide, circling gesture. The young man was listening intently to the Rebbe's words.

But we could see that he was still somewhat tense, as if he was not entirely satisfied with the Rebbe's answer. For a few seconds he just stood there uncomfortably, hesitating whether or not to continue. Finally he seemed to gather his courage, raised his head and asked another question. We were all watching the Rebbe's holy countenance, and saw the faintest flicker of a smile and a look of satisfaction. It seemed as if the Rebbe had been

anticipating the question. With an expression exuding warmth and love, the Rebbe looked directly into the young man's eyes and said a few more words, pointing with his holy finger towards the young man's heart.

We couldn't hear a thing, but we could tell that whatever the Rebbe had told him was completely unexpected. The young man stood there in shock, rooted to his place on the sidewalk. The Rebbe gave him a slight nod, and then continued on his way to the waiting car.

Groping in the Dark

As soon as the Rebbe had departed, all of us bachurim emerged from our "hiding places." Some went back inside 770, while others returned to whatever they had been doing. The most curious among us, however, just had to find out what the Rebbe had said. We watched the young man from a distance, trying to figure out how to initiate a conversation without seeming too nosy. The young man walked down the steps into 770 and took a seat on one of the benches in the back. He then lowered his head onto his arms and burst into tears. No one had the nerve to approach him. We stood to the side, unwilling to intrude on his emotions at such a time.

After about 15 minutes he seemed to have calmed down, so we walked over to him. We started very innocuously. Where are you from? What do you do for a living?

Of course, the whole time we were trying to ask more. Maybe we knew some of the same people, or perhaps we had something else in common? Our world is a world of lies. We often say one thing, while thinking something completely different. We say "bruchim habaim" and "shalom aleichem" in welcome, while actually meaning "tzeischem leshalom," good-bye. We bring up various topics, but we're only beating around the bush. There are some people who spend their whole lives dancing around the subject of life, but never actually talk about life itself. When will all the barriers fall away?

We sat down next the fellow and began to chat, but the whole time there was only one question on our minds. What had the Rebbe said to him? Would he agree to tell us?

We couldn't figure out a way to broach the subject. Then, as if quite incidentally, one of us "happened" to ask, "Why did the Rebbe raise his hands while speaking to you?" The young man smiled, as if he appreciated the cleverness of the Question. "I'm sure you want to know what I asked the Rebbe," he said." Let me tell you exactly what happened... To be continued next week.

Good Shabbos.

Menachem,

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

Thursday, April 30, 2009

Friday, April 24, 2009

Monday, April 6, 2009

Wednesday, April 1, 2009

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Thursday, March 5, 2009

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Thursday, February 19, 2009

Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Friday, February 6, 2009

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Sunday, February 1, 2009

Thursday, January 1, 2009

Thursday, December 11, 2008

Thursday, December 4, 2008

Friday, November 28, 2008

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