The Rebbe "Focus More on Positive Jewish Issues"

"'I Remember standing in front of the Rebbe I felt that the Rebbe knew everything about me and new what was going through my mind"

-Ron Peker

I would like to present an encounter that Rabbi Michael Schudrich the Chief Rabbi of Poland had with the Rebbe in the winter of 1990, also included is interesting picture of the Rebbe (part 58 in the series) Special thanks to the Chief Rabbi for sharing his encounter with me and to Rabbi Mordechai Kirschenbaum.

"In 1990 during the fall of communism, when Judaism began to revive again in Poland. At the time I was in contact with Rabbi Moshe Herson, a Shliach of the Rebbe in Morristown N.J. who was in touch with Ronald Lauder and David Chase; both very active in their efforts to revive Judaism in Poland. It was during one of these meetings that Rabbi Herson mentioned that they were going to go for Sunday dollars to the Rebbe; he asked me if I wanted to join, and I readily agreed.

At that time I had written a portfolio, about different projects that I wanted to start in Poland; including all the financing needed. It was late in the week and I figured maybe I could send the portfolio to the Rebbe (I took out the finances, and I also knew that the amounts of mail the Rebbe was getting at the time was enormous, and was therefore hoping the Rebbe would at least have a look at by Sunday), which Rabbi Herson agreed to do for me.

I gave him the portfolio on Thursday; he brought it with him to 770 on Friday to give in to the Rebbe's office. When I was writing up the portfolio I also included a list of topics that I had lectured on in the past, amongst them was a lecture on the topic of "what Jews really think about J.C.?" I didn't think it was appropriate to send it in to the Rebbe, so I took it out and reprinted it to go in to the Rebbe.

On Sunday when I came by The Rebbe for dollars, The Rebbe looked at me, gave me a dollar and said: "Bracha V 'Hatzlacha."

As I was walking away, I was called back, and The Rebbe told me:

"This that you were giving shiurim in these topics about "Oseh Haaish" -it's not something you should give shiurim on. You should focus more on the positive -Jewish issues...." Needless to say I was speechless as I left 770.

Good Shabbos.

Menachem.

Copyright © Menachem Kirschenbaum 2007

IDF Commander: "Rebbe why don't you move to Israel"?

"Are you worried,” asked the officer, moving to a new topic, “about living as a Jew here in Brooklyn, in a non-Jewish environment?"

-Lt. General Ron Pekar

The following is a Yechidus with the Rebbe that ranking officer in the IDF, Lt. General Ron Pekar, who served in the air force. He transcribed the audience in his private diary. Also included is an interesting picture of the Rebbe (Part 34 in the series)

"Battle weary and depressed by the constant fighting, the officer expressed his wish that there be no more combat with enemies. Being realistic, however, and acknowledging that it was highly plausible that there would more conflict, he asked the Rebbe’s opinion on whether there would be another war, or whether perhaps the Arabs had been so discouraged, during the Yom Kippur War, that they would never muster the confidence to fight again.

“At the moment,” came the reply, “the Arabs are merely unable to attack. However, given time to recover and regroup, they will surely seek opportunities to instigate conflict. To further crush their forces and minimize the chance of future clashes, the army should have advanced to Damascus and Cairo when it had the chance. Although the government did not approve, the army should have continued anyway–ignoring the lack of permission from the government. It was a crucial and perilous moment, and we should have continued pressing the main cities.

"Why didn't Arik Sharon continue going into Cairo?” the Rebbe exclaimed. “He was just one hundred kilometers from there! Excusing the decision, the government claims that there was insufficient fuel to reach there. However, this is very difficult to accept; the Egyptians seemed to have no shortage of fuel, and if Sharon, as conqueror, had decided to use that fuel, no one could prevent him.

"Have you ever flown over Cairo?" asked the Rebbe, staring inquisitively at the officer.

“Yes,” the officer responded, proceeding to describe with minute detail the layout of the city.

"In that case,” challenged the Rebbe, “why didn't you take the necessary planes, fly there, and conquer the city yourself? Coming in with those planes, you would have easily surprised them and effortlessly taken control. If that had been accomplished, with Cairo in our hands for even a very short period, the present situation would be completely different. "

Unable to persuade the Rebbe to accept his position, the military officer asked about something which had been troubling him for a long time. In a devastating fashion, his close friend Zurik was recently murdered during a terrorist attack, just two years after Zurik’s losing his brother Udi in the latest war. It was inconceivable that one family should deserve to bear so much anguish, losing two members in a short span. How could G-d have permitted this? Where was He?

Distressed at the tale of sorrow and unable to control his tears, the Rebbe began to weep. He finally replied, “Indeed, the story you tell me is frightening and upsetting; we are tempted, when hearing such an account, to question G-d and conclude that He does not really dictate what transpires in this world. We must, however, remember that we mortals cannot aspire to understand the intricacies of His divine wisdom.

“Having studied Torah all my life, at seventy-three years old and still studying and adding to my Torah knowledge, I feel that I have attained a level of wisdom. Nonetheless, the extent of my wisdom is ridiculous when compared to G-d’s. Therefore, we must not come to preposterous conclusions based on our judgment of events around us. Although there is much we do not comprehend, often in retrospect we come to an appreciation of the righteousness of His decisions. Perhaps time will demonstrate the virtue of Udi’s and Zurik’s premature deaths; perchance, many Jewish fatalities were avoided as a result of these casualties.”

"Are you worried,” asked the officer, moving to a new topic, “about living as a Jew here in Brooklyn, in a non-Jewish environment?"

"As a soldier you are surely aware,” answered the Rebbe, “that during the time of combat there is no chance to reflect on your fear. You must fight with courage and sincerity, regardless of how you feel. Similarly, when I am immersed in my work, even if the extraneous conditions are unfriendly, I have faith and trust in G-d, because He alone controls what takes place here on earth, and is looking out for the interests of every Jew."

“But,” persisted the Israeli, “why don't you move to Israel? Your revered stature and dynamic manner will certainly influence the political and religious scene. Aware that many people questioned you regarding this, I have heard several different replies, but, the replies are unsatisfactory, and for me the question remains.”

The Rebbe answered, "Living in Israel and enduring the responsibilities that would come with it, my influence on world Jewry would be restricted. Inevitably, my controversial position on issues would limit my capability of communicating with Jews, both outside of Israel, in Moscow, for example, and in Israel; in fact, even this conversation would be impossible in Tel Aviv. I find this place the most conducive for my work."

Good Shabbos.

Menachem.

Copyright © Menachem Kirschenbaum 2007

The Rebbe "For this Reason I am Asking Because, of Your Influence "

"You are one of a select few whom I am approaching in this matter, knowing of your position of influence and connection with the medical profession, which could be used to great advantage and effect in promoting the cause espoused in the memo- which I feel certain, will meet with your approval, and the Zechus Harabim will help further"

-The Rebbe

I would like to present part two of the Rebbe's Perspective on Yoga and Mediation. Special thanks to Dr. Audi Gozlan PHD, director of KABALAH Yoga in Montreal Quebec and to Rabbis Eli Silberstein and Asher Lowenstein. Also included is an interesting picture of the Rebbe (part 85 in the series).

Preface to the Rebbe's Letter

Many people were surprised at reading the letter last week and learning about the Rebbe's acceptance of the usefulness of meditation. The letter which follows may be even more shocking. In it the Rebbe seems to acknowledge that this is a controversial opinion which would elicit much opposition. Nonetheless, he explicitly states that his comments on meditation are meant to support the argument of those who find benefits in meditation.

It should be noted that the Rebbe stipulates that the opinion be kept confidential since it could lead people to associate with improper practices and groups which are related to forms of meditation.

Dr, Yehuda Landes

881 seale avenue P.A.

Calif. 94303.

Greetings and blessings:

It is some time since I heard from you, and I trust that all is well, it is surely unnecessary to add the insofar as a Jew is concerned "all is well includes" above all, advancement in the torah and mitzvoth in the everyday life.

The purpose of this letter is to send you the enclosed memorandum which is self explanatory. The reason it has been written as a separate piece without a signature, and to some extent confidentiality is that the subject matter is of a sensitive nature and the memo could be used to encourage that which it seeks to discourage and preclude, namely involvement in eastern cults. For it may be argued by many who are already involved in the therapy discussed in the memo, or are tempted to become involved, that until such time as a medical profession, will openly adopt the same methods of treatment and provide an alternative, they are justified in seeking this therapy elsewhere, especially if they take care to avoid active participation in the idolatrous rites and ceremonies that go with it. In support of this contention they can site this memo which (1) confirms the therapeutic value of the said methods and (2) indicates also that the idolatrous elements in the said cults germane, indeed non-essential, to the therapy itself.

For this reason I am asking you- as all others whom I intend to approach in this matter- to use your discretion in connection with the enclosed memo, as to its source and its utilization, etc.

I must, however, point out with all due emphasis that in my opinion the problem has reached such proportions that time is extremely important.

Every minute that could be saved in speeding the implementation of the program suggested in the memo could be a matter of spiritual Pikuach-Nefesh for many actual and potential victims of the said cults.

You are one of a select few whom I am approaching in this matter, knowing of your position of influence and connection with the medical profession, which could be used to great advantage and effect in promoting the cause espoused in the memo- which I feel certain, will meet with your approval, and the Zechus Harabim will help further.

Needless to say, on my part I will do all I can to mobilize all possible cooperation in behalf of this cause which, I strongly believe, should be pursued with utmost vigor, without fear of duplication, or overdoing it.

Your comments on all above will be most welcome.

With esteem and blessing,

Menachem Mendel Schneerson

Picture Description: A Yechidus with the Rebbe that took place in the wintter on 1964.

Good Shabbos,

Menachem.

Copyright © Menachem Kirschenbaum 2007

The Rebbe "I Have A lot of Enjoyment From your Pictures"

“The Rebbe once noted photographer Levi Yitzchak Freidan's enthusiasm by joking, "If only the bachurim (yeshiva students) were so into learning as you are into your pictures!”

-Rabbi Klein

Levi Yitzchak Fraidin stands out as one of the best Chassidic photographers of his generation. Mr. Fraidin’s pictures of the Rebbe rank among the finest in their category.I would like to present an interview [published in Maariv, 1976] with a renowned journalist, upon his returning from his first trip of photographing the Rebbe. also included is interesting pictures of the Rebbe (part 23 in the series)

When did the idea to exhibit these pictures of the Rebbe arise?

I had the idea to take pictures of the Rebbe, at his headquarters, about three months ago.

Since I moved to Israel eighteen years ago, I became connected to many of the Rebbe's followers here. On one occasion, the Rebbe instructed a well-known Chassid, Rabbi Pinches Althoiz, to help me out with my (photography) work.

During the last couple of years, my close friends have asked me, “What's with you, Levi Yitzchak? Why have you still not been to the Rebbe?” Throughout this time, I did have the inner desire and will to go to the Rebbe. This year, my older son, Yisroel Aryeh, graduated from Bar Ilan University, where he studied history. Upon his graduation he told me, "Abba (Daddy), come! We must travel to the Rebbe."

I told my son that when a Chassid travels to the Rebbe, it is not simply another trip. I sat down and wrote to Rabbi Chodakov, the Rebbe’s secretary, that I wanted to come with my son to the Rebbe for the Yomim Tovim. I mentioned that I wanted to take pictures of the Rebbe, and of the general scene surrounding the Rebbe. A couple of days later, Rabbi Chodakov told Rabbi Wolf in Israel, to let me know that my request was granted.

When was the first meeting that you had with the Rebbe?

The day after I arrived in New York, the Rebbe went out to pray in the small shul right near his office, where he was normally called up to the Torah on Mondays and Thursdays. There was unbearable pushing inside the small shul. I was barely able to enter the shul, when I suddenly found myself a couple of feet away from the Rebbe. I immediately began photographing the Rebbe.

Did you talk with the Rebbe?

With the Rebbe, there is no small talk. Only when the Rebbe turns to you and asks you something, you answer him.

That same night, there was a farbrengen in the large shul downstairs. There were about 4,500 people in the shul. The Rebbe sat elevated in the center of the room, with Rabbi Chodakov on his right and the Rebbe's brother-in-law, Rabbi Gourary, on his left. Generally, the Rebbe delivers his talks, and, in between talks, the Chassidim sing Chassidic melodies. People hold cups in the air, waiting for the Rebbe to nod his head in their direction and say l'chaim.

That night, the Rebbe pointed a finger in my direction and instructed me to say l'chaim. The Chassidim instantly gave me a cup of wine, and I said l'chaim. Then the Rebbe raised two fingers, indicating that I should say a second l'chaim. I did.

I began to walk towards the Rebbe's place. When I got there, the Rebbe asked, “You are Fraidin?"

"Yes,” I replied.

The Rebbe then continued, "You should know that I have a lot of enjoyment from your pictures."

Good Shabbos.

Menachem.

Copyright © Menachem Kirschenbaum 2007

"The Rebbe Sat in The Front Seat Of The Car"

"When you look at a real yeshiva Student you see right away his real entity, which is Torah, to the extent that it takes over every detail of his life and affects his friends too

-The Rebbe

Amongst the many things that the Rebbe encouraged his students was that they should write down different questions and difficulties in the subjects that they are studying and to try to find new ideas and answers.

I would like to present a beautiful encounter of a student who learned in 770 in the 1940’s, he would write into the Rebbe different questions that he had in Torah and the Rebbe would respond to him. Also included is interesting pictures of the Rebbe (part 34 in the series)

"When I was a student in the 1940s, I would write to the Rebbe asking various questions that I had on Chassidic passages. The Rebbe always answered whatever I asked. After the Previous Rebbe passed away and the Rebbe stepped into his father-in-law’s position, I stopped writing because I understood that the Rebbe had much more important things to deal with.

I was on the way to my brother-in-law’s wedding, and I had the great privilege of riding in the car with the Rebbe, who would often officiate at wedding in those years. The Rebbe sat in the front seat and I joined Rabbi Chodakov in the back.

Turning around and offering a faint smile, the Rebbe mentioned, “It’s been a long time since I received any of your questions in Chassidus!” I replied that obviously the Rebbe now had more important things to take tend to and could not be bothered with my questions. The Rebbe disagreed, telling me that he still would like to get my letters.

Following the wedding, I sat down and wrote the many questions that accumulated since I had stopped asking. Not receiving any response, I nonetheless continued submitting my questions, as the Rebbe had requested.

This went on for thirteen weeks. Each Friday I would write my questions and before Shabbos I would give it to the Rebbe’s secretary; but I received no reply.

After some time, I received a letter from the Rebbe pertaining to other matters. However, at the end of the letter the Rebbe had added in his handwriting, “Your letters were received at the proper time, and when I will have time I will, please G-d, answer all of them.”

A short time later, I received another letter containing answers to all of the questions I had posed. It had been such a long time since I sent the questions in, that I had to look up my original letters to remember some of the difficulties.

Good Shabbos,

Menachem.

Copyright © Menachem Kirschenbaum 2007

The Rebbetzin "Are You Going To the Rebbe's Farbrengen"

"I phoned Beis Rivkah and I asked to speak with Chaya Lew. The secretary explained to me that there is a school policy not to allow girls to take phone calls on the school telephone. The Rebbestin concluded: "I don't know how to get in touch with her."

- Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka

In honor of Chof Beis Shvat I would like to present an Encounter with the Rebbetzin. Also included is interesting pictures of the Rebbe part 55 and 56 (the first picture is Rebbetzin Chana and Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka at a wedding) Special thanks to Rabbi Shmuel Lew and Rabbi Zalman Lebovic.

"When my oldest daughter was studying in New York at Beis Rivkah, my father-in-law and mother-in-law, Rabbi Zalman and Mrs. Jafee, went to visit the Rebbetzin.

It was during the month of Tishrei, and they took along with them other members of the family, including my daughter who was studying in New York. My father-in-law explained to the Rebbetzin that his granddaughter is staying in New York to study, and that although she does not have any relatives in the community, she is very happy to be here within the community and to study in the Rebbe's institution. When the Rebbetzin heard this, she replied:

"I will try to keep in touch with her"

A number of weeks later, on Yud Daled Kislev (the anniversary of the Rebbe and Rebbetzin), my father-in-law phoned the Rebbetzin to wish her Mazal Tov on her anniversary. The Rebbetzin told my father-in-law, "I am trying to contact your granddaughter but I am unsuccessful!" My father-in-law asked the Rebbetzin how she is trying to contact her. To which the Rebbetzin replied:

"I phoned Beis Rivkah and I asked to speak with Chaya Lew. The secretary explained to me that there is a school policy not to allow girls to take phone calls on the school telephone. The Rebbestin concluded: "I don't know how to get in touch with her."

My father-in-law gave the Rebbetzin my daughter's phone number at her apartment, where my daughter and two of her friends we living. The Rebbetzin phoned the apartment and one of my daughter's friends told the Rebbetzin that she was not in and that she was out shopping and asked the Rebbetzin if she wanted to leave a message. The Rebbetzin asked her to tell Chaya that Mrs. Schneerson from President Street called and would appreciate it if she returned her phone call. This is how the relationship began and from then on Chaya would visit the Rebbetzin.

On Purim, my daughter brought the Rebbetzin Mishloach Monos . When she entered the Rebbetzin's home, the Rebbetzin asked her to eat something. My daughter explained to the Rebbetzin that she had already eaten. The Rebbetzin then asked her if she would be going to the Rebbe's Farbrengen. When my daughter responded that she would be going to the Farbrengen, the Rebbetzin exclaimed: "At the Rebbe's Farbrengen, there is a lot of pushing, so please eat some more food for extra strength!"

Good Shabbos.

Menachem.

Copyright © Menachem Kirschenbaum 2007

The Rebbe, "The Nature Of American Jewish Students"

"..However here in the United States we have a different audience and a youth which radically differs from the type whom Rabbi Hirsch had addressed originally...”

-The Rebbe

The following is a very unique letter of the Rebbe. From the year 1962 to a Professor at Yeshiva University, in which the Rebbe explains the nature of today’s American Jewish youth and why they can’t relate to Rabbi Samson Rafael Hirsch’s (" The Father of Modern German Orthodoxy ") approach to Judaism of “Torah v’Derech Eretz”.

“I must touch upon another, and even more delicate, matter concerning the teachings of Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch whom you mentioned in your letter. There has been a tendency lately to apply his approach in totality, here and now In U.S. America While it is understandable that the direct descendants of Rabbi Hirsch or those who were brought up in that philosophy should want to disseminate his teachings,

I must say emphatically that to apply his approach to the American scene will not serve the interests of Orthodoxy in America. With all due respect to his philosophy and approach which were very forceful and effective in his time and in his milieu, Rabbi Hirsch wrote for an audience and youth which was brought up on philosophical studies, and which was permeated with all sorts of doctrines and schools of thought and disciplined in the art of intellectual research etc. Thus it was necessary to enter into long philosophical discussions to point out the fallacy of each and every thought and theory which is incompatible with the Torah and Mitzvoth. There was no harm in using this approach, inasmuch as the harm had already been there, and if it could strengthen Jewish thought and practice, it was useful, and to that extent, effective.

However, here in the United States we have a different audience and a youth which radically differs from the type whom Rabbi Hirsch had addressed originally. American youth is not the philosophic turn of mind. They have neither the patience nor the training to delve into long philosophical discussions, and to evaluate different systems and theories when they are and introduced to all sorts of ideas, including those that are diametrically opposed to the Torah and Mitzvoth, and there are many of them, since there are many falsehoods but only one truth, this approach can only bring them to a greater measure of confusion. Whether or not the final analysis and conclusions will be accepted by them, one thing is certain, that the seeds of doubt will have multiplied in their minds, since each theory has its prominent proponent bearing impressive titles of professors, PhD’s, etc.

Besides the essential point and approach is “Thou shalt be wholehearted with G-d, thy G-d.” The surest way of remaining a faithful Jew is not through philosophy but through the actual experience of the Jewish way of life in the daily life, fully and wholeheartedly. As for the principle “know what to answer the heretic,” this is surely only one particular aspect, and certainly does not apply to everyone. Why introduce every Jewish boy and girl to the various heretics that ever lived?

The whole problem is a delicate one, and I have written the above only in the hope that you may be able to use your influence with certain circles in Washington Heights, that they should again re-examine the whole question and see if the Rabbi Hirsch approach should be applied to the American scene. My decided opinion is, of course, that it should not, and I hope that whatever measure of restraint you may accomplish through your influence will be all good. I hope to hear good news from you also in regard to this.

Enclosed is a copy of my message to the delegates of N’shei Chabad, which I trust Mrs. Good man will find interesting, since the contents of the message are intended for all Jewish men and women.

I was gratified to read in your letter that you recall our conversation with regard to your writing of your Memoirs, and, as in case of all recollections in Jewish life, the purpose of which is to give it expression in actual deed, I trust that this will be the case also in regard to your Memoirs.

I want to take this opportunity to mention another point which we touched upon during our conversation, and which I followed up in writing. I refer to the movement of “Torah v’Derech Eretz” which has sometimes become a doctrine of “Derech Eretz with Torah” alluding to the saying of our Sages that Derech Eretz came before Torah. However, the term “Derech Eretz” is interpreted as a college education, and it is claimed to be the doctrine of Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch of blessed memory.

As you will recall, I made the point in my previous letter on this subject that in my opinion, with all due respect to this policy and school of thought which had their time and place, they are not al all suitable for American Jewish youth and present times and conditions, especially in the United states. I even made so bold a move as to try to enlist your cooperation to use your influence to discourage the reintroduction of this movement on the American Jewish scene, since it is my belief that your word carries a great deal of weight in these circles here.

I want to note with gratification that on the basis of unofficial and behind the scenes information which has reached me from the circles in question, the point which I made with regard to this school of thought has been gaining evermore adherents. It is becoming increasingly recognized that a college education is not a vital necessity and is not even of secondary importance. Many begin to recognize that the Torah, Toras Chaim, is, after all, the best S’chorah, even as a “career.” In the light of this new reappraisal, attendance at college is being recognized as something negative and interfering with detracting from the study of Torah. So much for the younger generation. However, the older generation, especially those, whose own character and background has been fashioned overseas, in Germany, still cling to the said school of thought. The reason may be because it is difficult for a person in the prime of his life, or in a more advanced age, to radically change his whole outlook and reexamine the whole approach in which one has been trained and steeped, in the light of contemporary conditions in the Unites States, or it may simply be due to inertia and the like.

In view of the above, and inasmuch as a considerable impact has already been made in the right direction, I consider it even more auspicious at the time that you should use your good influence in this direction. All the more so since, judging by your energy and outlook, I trust you can be included with the younger generation and not the older one. For the younger generation is not only more energetic and enthusiastic about things, but is more prone to take up new ideas which require an extra measure of courage, to be different from others and to face new challenges. I believe that you have been blessed with a goodly measure of these youthful qualities.

I might conclude that this subject is timely in these days, on the Eve of Shavuot when the first condition of receiving the Torah was the unity of the Jewish people so that it could be receptive to the unity of G-d, as expressed in the first and second of the Ten Commandments. For the unity of G-d means not only in the literal sense of the said commandments, but that there should be no other authority or power compared with

G-dliness, until there is the full realization that “There is nothing besides him.” And this idea is brought about by the One Torah, which is likewise one and only and exclusive, so that when we say that it is “Toras Chaim,” it means that it is literally our very source and only source of life in this life, too, and that there can be no other essential source or even a secondary source next to the Torah, even as far as our daily resources in the ordinary aspects of the life are concerned.

Good Shabbos

Menachem.

Copyright © Menachem Kirschenbaum 2007

"Yoga and Meditation" The Rebbe's Perspective On "Kosher Yoga"

"Needless to say, on my part i will do all i can to mobilize all possible cooperation in behalf of this cause which, i strongly believe, should be persuade with the utmost vigor"

-The Rebbe


I would like to present a beautiful letter of the Rebbe written to Dr.Landes from pall alto California on the subject of Yoga and Meditation. Also included is an interesting picture of the Rebbe (part 84 in the series) Special thanks to Dr. Audi Gozlan PHD, director of KABALAH Yoga in Montreal Quebec, for providing us with the Rebbe's letters and for his expertise on yoga and meditation (WWW.KABALAHYOGA.COM) ,and to Rabbi Asher Lowenstein.

Preface to the Letter

A familiar feature of the contemporary spiritual scene is meditation. Many people enjoy practicing meditation because it is supposed to bring considerable benefits to one's physical and mental health. During the 1960s and 1970s meditation began to spread all over the US and become a part of our culture. One of the most famous teachers of meditation at the time was Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, who taught a discipline which he called TM, Transcendental Meditation. Several Jewish leaders were concerned that his methods were tainted by Hinduism, which is considered to be a form of Avodah Zarah, idol worship. A fellow from Palo- Alto California , Dr. Landes, asked the Rebbe if it was appropriate to use these methods. In a letter dated 16th of Adar 5738 (1978) the Rebbe responded to Dr. Landes concerning the practice of meditation, and in a memo appended to the letter the Rebbe outlined his view on the matter. The Rebbe's view articulated in the memo was that, after culling the suitable elements from the improper, the benefits should be utilized.

Many Jewish authorities were quick to denounce all forms of meditation. They felt that, even if we are to distinguish between methods that imbued aspects from other religions and those that do not, it is nevertheless a deviation from the traditional ways of practicing Judaism. Therefore, they reasoned, Jews should be discouraged from performing any type of meditation. Remarkably, the Rebbe, in his response, agrees that the benefits of meditation should not be disregarded. And, in the proper manner, Jews who are in need of those benefits can avail themselves with meditation. In the coming weeks several letters will follow, in which the Rebbe expresses his recognition of more far-reaching and poignant benefits.



By the Grace of G-d
Teveth, 5738

MEMORANDUM

It is well known that certain oriental movements, such as Transcendental Meditation (T.M.), Yoga, Guru, and the like, have attracted many Jewish followers, particularly among the young generation.

In as much as these movements involve certain rites and rituals, they have been rightly regarded by Rabbinic authorities as cults bordering on, and in some respects actual, Avodah Zarah (idolatry). Accordingly Rabbinic authorities everywhere, and particularly in Eretz Yisroel, ruled that these cults come under all the strictures associated with Avodah Zarah, so that also their appurtenances come under strict prohibition.

Moreover, the United States Federal Court also ruled recently that such movements, by virtue of embracing such rites and rituals, must be classifies as cultic and religious movements. (Of. Malnak V. Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, U.S.D.C. of N.J. 76-341, esp. pp. 36-50, 78)
On the other hand, certain aspects of the said movements, which are entirely irrelevant to religious worship or practices, have a therapeutic value, particularly in the area of relieving mental stress.

It follows that if these therapeutic methods – insofar as they are utterly devoid of any ritual implications – would be adopted by doctors specializing in the field of mental illness, it would have two-pronged salutary effect: Firstly, in the view of the fact that these methods are therapeutically effective, while there are, regretfully, many who could benefit from such treatment, this is a matter of healing of the highest order, since it has to do with mental illness. It would, therefore, be very wrong to deny such treatment to those who need it, when it could be given by a practicing doctor.

Secondly, and this too is not less important, since there are many Jewish sufferers who continue to avail themselves of these methods though the said cults despite the Rabbinic prohibition, it can be assumed with certainty that many of them, if not all, who are drawn to these cults by the promise of mental relief, would prefer to receive the same treatment from the medical profession – if they had a choice of getting it the kosher way. It would thus be possible to save many Jews from getting involved with the said cults.

It is also known, though not widely, that there are individual doctors who practice the same or similar methods at T.M. and the like. However, it seems that these methods occupy a secondary or subordinate role in their procedures. More importantly, there is almost a complete lack of publicity regarding the application of these methods by doctors, and since the main practice of these doctors is linked with the conventional neurological and psychiatric approach, it is generally assumed that whatever success they achieve is not connected with results obtained from methods relating to T.M. and the like; results which the cults acclaim with such fanfare.

In light of the above, it is suggested and strongly urged that:

Appropriate action be undertaken to enlist the cooperation of a group of doctors specializing in neurology and psychiatry who would research the said methods with a view to perfecting them and adopting them in their practice on a wider scale.

All due publicity be given about the availability of such methods from practicing doctors.

This should be done most expeditiously, without waiting for this vital information to be disseminated through medical journals, where research and findings usually take a long time before they come to the attention of practicing physicians. This would all the sooner counteract the untold harm done to so many Jews who are attracted daily to the said cults, as mentioned in the opening paragraph.

In conclusion: This memo is intended for all Rabbis, doctors, and layman who are in a position to advance the cause espoused herein, the importance of which needs no further elaboration.

Needless to say, even if one feels doubtful whether he can advance this cause, or whether the expectation warrants the effort – the vital importance and urgency of saving so many souls from Avodah Zarah, not only warrants but dictates every possible effort, even if there be a doubt about achieving success; certainly when there is every reason to believe that much, indeed, can be achieved, with G-d's help and Zechus Harabbim,

Picture description: the Rebbe entering the farbrengen of Yud Aleph Nissin 1972. (Special thanks to Rabbi Seligson)

Good Shabbos.

Menachem.

Copyright © Menachem Kirschenbaum 2007

The Rebbe "The Last one to Abandon A Ship is the Captain"

"Your kind tribute to the Lubavitch movement, which I am privileged to head, is a message of encouragement to me and to our members in the USA and abroad. Of course,"

-From a Letter to President George Bush, August 1990

I would like to present a Yechidus of the Rebbe that Rabbi Shabsi Katz who was the Rabbi of Pretoria, the Administrative Capital of the Republic of South Africa, for nearly 40 years. The Yechidus took place in the winter of 1972. Also included is an interesting picture of the Rebbe (Part 84 in the Series).

"The first time we came to visit the Rebbe was in the winter of 1972. The whole scene was new to me, so it was with some degree of uncertainty that I sat outside the Rebbe's office with my husband waiting for our Yechidus ("private audience"). When at last it was our turn, we were told, "Only five minutes." But it was 40 minutes later, well after 2:30 a.m., when we came out. As we entered, the Rebbe stood up partially, and asked us to be seated. We said that we had been told not to sit during the Yechidus.

The Rebbe replied, "I won't tell if you don't tell." The Rebbe waited for me to be seated before sitting back down himself. I suddenly felt completely at ease. My husband had written down the two questions that were causing him concern, and he handed the paper to the Rebbe. The Rebbe looked at it for a brief moment, made a couple of marks with the pencil he was holding, and started to speak.

At that time the Apartheid Laws were very much in place in South Africa , and although we were all against these laws, it was really only the Activists who spoke out against them, often courting trouble for themselves by doing so. My husband's dilemma was whether he should openly oppose Apartheid, and thus his first question was, "Should I, as an Orthodox Rabbi in the Republic of South Africa, speak out against Apartheid?"

The Rebbe began by saying that while he could find absolutely no justification for Apartheid, he wanted to point out that my husband's work in Pretoria was with the Jewish community, and he was well aware of the problems there. "You have assimilation, you have intermarriage, you have drugs," he said. "You have so many problems that weaken your community and its Yiddishkeit."

The Rebbe continued by saying that if you lived in a town and a fire was burning that threatened to destroy all the houses, it would be your obligation to put out the fire in your own house first before going to the aid of others to save their property.

He looked at my husband and said, "There is a fire in your community! You have intermarriage, you have drug abuse, you have a lack of Jewish education. You have so many things that you as the Rabbi have to attend to. Therefore, I say to you, put out the fire in your own house."
We had been living in Pretoria for nearly 20 years. Our children were growing up, and we had often contemplated the necessity of a more Jewish environment. My husband's second question to the Rebbe was whether we should consider emigrating to Israel.

In reply, the Rebbe spoke to my husband about his work with the lay community of Pretoria, the capital city. The Rebbe knew of the government contacts he had built up over the years, and he pointed out how my husband was able to use these contacts to the advantage of fellow Jews. The fact that he knew whom to contact when Jews, within his community or outside, needed assistance, was very important for the whole Jewish community.

The Rebbe spoke to us warmly, as if he had firsthand experience of what was going on in Pretoria, as he pointed out that one has to make sacrifices to be Jewish. He looked at me and said he wanted to tell me something important to me as a Jewish woman and mother. "You know," he said, "what it is to make a sacrifice to be Jewish. You know what it means when your children are invited to a birthday party and they can't eat there. That is a sacrifice for being Jewish. You know what it means when your son wants to play football but he has to go to cheder. That is a sacrifice for being Jewish." That we must remain in Pretoria was quite clear. That my husband must continue the work he had done over the years or was the Rebbe's answer to the question of moving to Israel.

The Rebbe told us, "My experience in the military is the Navy. I learned that the last one to abandon ship is the captain.

"If you moved to Israel, you would be saving yourselves, but abandoning those you leave behind. If you stay in Pretoria and take care of G-d's children, G-d will take care of your children."

The Rebbe mentioned my husband's work as a chaplain at the army's headquarters in Pretoria. He said that in the army, the general must be there to lead, and only if the soldiers were led were they an effective force.

Toward the conclusion of the yechidus the Rebbe asked my husband if he was going to listen to what he had said.

My husband replied, "Rebbe, my experience in the military is in the army. In the army there are generals and there are privates. A private must listen to his general. Rebbe, you are my general. I will do as you say."

Immediately, the Rebbe replied, "Oh no! You mustn't do it because I said so! You must do it out of conviction!"

Good Yom tov.

Menachem.

Copyright © Menachem Kirschenbaum 2007

The Rebbe “We Cannot Hurt our Own Bodies in Any Way”

"First, I was surprised that the Rebbe had the time. Even then, 770 was not as large a center as it later became, there were people waiting from all over the world. I was surprised the Rebbe had taken the time to learn about my own background, and to read stuff I had written, because I knew if he did this for me he did it for everybody. I wondered how he was able to do all that."

-Herbert Weiner

I would like to present a Yechidus of the Rebbe with Dr. Ruth Benjamin, From Johannesburg, S.A. The Yechidus took place in Sivan 1973. Also included is an interesting picture of the Rebbe (part 83 in the series).

"In Sivan 1972 I had my first yechidus (private audience) with the Rebbe. I took my daughter, Devorah Chana, with me. In advance, I had written the Rebbe a note, a somewhat lengthy note. Someone had told me I could only write one page so I had written everything on one legal-size page in tiny, block lettered printing so small that the Rebbe took a magnifying glass to read it.

There were many matters about which I wanted to ask the Rebbe. I was busy with my master's thesis on the psychology of Judaism and had sent to the Rebbe a copy of as far as I had gone. I also asked if I should continue, after completing this, with my doctorate. My husband was a psychiatrist and I am a clinical psychologist. We saw many non-Jewish patients. I asked the Rebbe if we should encourage them towards Christianity or should we let them build up their faith in G-d within themselves. I had also brought in a letter from someone who was questioning the value and meaning of life.

After the yechidus, I wrote down everything I could remember, almost in "play" form. This was a long time ago and today I would not address the Rebbe so casually. I am sure I have not recorded the Rebbe's exact words, or mine for that matter. However, this was written immediately afterwards (at around 5 a.m. after a night of not sleeping) and I have stuck with most of what I have put down as it is probably the most authentic.

Rebbe: Finish your thesis. It is 90% finished.

Ruth: Shall I do a doctorate? What about on Taharat Hamishpacha? It is psychologically brilliant, of course...

Rebbe: Do your doctorate, but not in religion and not in philosophy.

Ruth: Not in religion?

Rebbe: Neither in philosophy. Don't study apikorsis (heresy). Don't study apikorsis as it will lead others to study apikorsis. Do it in something else. You need it to help you in your work.

Ruth: I can still be a psychologist without a doctorate. It would just mean that I cannot call myself "Dr. Benjamin." Is that important?

Rebbe: It is important for prestige.

Ruth: Isn't prestige a bad sort of motivation?

Rebbe: I mean prestige for Yiddishkeit. If you have a doctorate and a woman comes to you and you tell her about Taharat Hamishpacha [Jewish laws of married life], she will listen to you.

On the question of non-Jewish patients, the Rebbe said something like:
"They have seven laws. Lead them to these laws, to all of them. This is part of our duty." The Rebbe then enumerated the Laws.

Ruth: These people need something. One man tried to commit suicide a couple of times and came to my office. I got him to the hospital in time. He then came to me and said: "You are responsible for my being alive. Now give me something to live for."

Rebbe: Tell him he is part of G-d's world and he has a responsibility to Him.

Ruth: Have we a responsibility to the non-Jew?

Rebbe: We have a responsibility to the Jew first and then to the non-Jew.

The Rebbe then picked up on the problem of suicide:

Suicide is exactly the same as murder. Our bodies do not belong to us. We cannot do what we like with them. They are not ours. Get them to understand this. We cannot even hurt our own bodies in any way. The Rebbe then spoke about the person [whose letter I had brought to him] who was questioning the worth of life. The Rebbe said that I should tell such people that they have a double duty to perform after the last war when so many Jews were murdered. They had to live not only for themselves but for all these. They must live to draw people to Judaism. In doing this they will find their own turmoil will pass away. The Rebbe made sure that I would convey this message. The Rebbe ended with a blessing saying that he was waiting for the rest of my thesis.

Good Yom Tov.

Menachem.

Copyright © Menachem Kirschenbaum 2007

The General: "The Rebbe Began To Cry"

"Why don't you go to Eretz Yisroel? Such a powerful figure like the Rebbe can definitely influence and have an effect on what's going there–at least spiritually!"

-Ron Pekar

I would like to present a very powerful Yechidus of the Rebbe with a General of the IDF from 1975.This e-mail is dedicated to Chabad of long island city in honor of the opening of their new Chabad house this week.

The General: "Will there be another war in Israel?”

The Rebbe: "The Arabs are just unable to attack right now. But if left to regroup and recuperate, the moment they regain strength, without a moment's hesitation, they will attack. The army should have gone into Damascus and Kahir. Why wasn't it done? The army should have gone–even with out the permission of the government. It was a very critical (and dangerous) time, and we should have kept pressing the main cities.

"Why didn't Arik Sharon continue going into Kahir? He was just one hundred kilometers from there! It's very hard to accept the story that there was no gas on the way, because there was gas for the Egyptian forces and if Sharon wanted to use it there would have been no problem."

Rebbe: "Did you ever fly to Kahir?"

General: "Yes." [Describes the city to the Rebbe].

R: "Why didn't you take planes and fly there and take the city? Why didn't you surprise them? The planes should have flown there and taken the city, even if only for a bit of time. Had they done that, everything would have been different. "

G: [Asks Rebbe how G-d can stand by when Zurik (a friend of his) dies, following the death of his brother Udi by just two years. How could G-d have permitted this? Where is G-d?!]
(The Rebbe began to cry and then said:)

R: "It is indeed a very terrible and frightening incident; but who are we to judge the actions of G-d? I am 73 years old and I study as much Torah as I can, and I keep trying to add in Torah study. I feel that I have acquired a level of wisdom. And yet all that amounts to nothing before the wisdom of G-d. We therefore cannot judge situations a s they present themselves. Because, in retrospect, very often, the meaning and purpose of many mysteries are revealed. Similarly, maybe time will show how the deaths of Udi and Zurik prevented many more Jewish deaths."

G: "Are you scared to live like a Jew here in Brooklyn ?"

R: "When you're fighting during the time of war you fight with courage and sincerity. Similarly, when I do what I need to do, even if outwardly 'dangerous,' I have faith and trust in G-d, because He alone controls what happens here on earth, and he is looking out for the interests of every Jew."

R: "Why don't you go to Eretz Yisroel? Such a powerful figure like the Rebbe can definitely influence and have an effect on what's going there–at least spiritually! I have heard many different answers that the Rebbe has given to people and I also heard that it is a question that bothers many people. "

R: "If I would sit in Eretz Yisroel my influence on world Jewry would be limited. I would not be able to communicate with Jews in Moscow and even this conversation would be impossible in Tel Aviv. I find that this place is the most conducive for my work."

Good Shabbos.

Menachem.

Copyright © Menachem Kirschenbaum 2007

A Yechidus With the Rebbe

"Yechidus (private audience) is a meeting where the Rebbe bestows his blessings and/or clarifies issues within a Chassid"

-Rabbi Jacobs

In honor of Yud Shvat I would like to present a Yechidus of the Rebbe with Rabbi Fishel Jacobs May 1981. Special thanks to Rabbi Yisroel Jacobs and Rabbi Yona Avtzon. Also included is "interesting pictures of the Rebbe" part 53.This e-mail is dedicated to Dr. Refoel Levi ben Chaya Toiba.

Note: Yechidus (private audience) is a meeting where the Rebbe bestows his blessings and/or clarifies issues within a Chassid. The transcript below was taken from an audio recording of yechidus with Rabbi Jacobs and his mother. In this yechidus , the Rebbe directed Rabbi Jacobs to return to Israel, stating that his future wife would be easily found there. Two weeks later, Rabbi Rami Antian o.b.m.'dragged' Rabbi Jacobs out of his yeshiva dorm bed at 3:00 a.m. excitedly notifying him that he had found him his future wife. Rabbi Antian had no knowledge of this yechidus at the time. Finally, it was in this yechidus that Rabbi Jacobs was told to begin learning for Smicha (Rabbinic Ordination).

Time: 2:00 a.m.Present: The Rebbe, Rabbi Jacobs and his mother (both seated facing the Rebbe) Rebbe (addressing Mrs. Jacobs): I would like to bless you and all the members of your family in all things necessary, both spiritually and materially—especially to have much nachos, much pleasure, from all your children in all areas of their lives. You should receive this nachos in good health and good parnosa. You should be able to raise the children to Torah, chupah and to do good deeds.

The Rebbe then faced Rabbi Jacobs and continued: You should continue in learning Torah and performing mitzvahs and accomplish this all with joy and inspiration.

The Rebbe addressed Mrs. Jacobs: Where is your place of living? Where are you from?

Mrs. Jacobs: Vermont. (Transcriber: New England, northeast U.S.)

Rebbe: Uh?

Mrs. Jacobs: Vermont .

Rebbe (addressing Rabbi Jacobs): What is your profession?

Rabbi Jacobs: I study in Kfar Chabad.

Rebbe: Kfar Chabad?!

Rebbe (addressing Mrs. Jacobs): And you live in Vermont?!(All laughing)

Rebbe: We Jews are used to this, that one member of the family is in one corner of the world and a sister, brother or parents are in another corner of the world. However, nowadays this is not a problem, since we have telephones and airplanes and many methods of keeping a connection with one another.

Mrs. Jacobs: Zicher (Yiddish: 'sure'). We keep in contact; we're here all the time.
Rebbe: The main thing is to have much real nachos (pleasure), and to receive this nachos in good health and with a good parnosa (livelihood).

Mrs. Jacobs: And to find a good girl for him, a good shidduch (soul mate)

Rebbe: Uh?

Mrs. Jacobs: A good shidduch is also a good thing.

Rebbe: He...

Mrs. Jacobs: We don't know...

Rebbe: Is he ready, or he is in the middle of his studies? Addressing Rabbi Jacobs): Are you ready for a shidduch ?

Mrs. Jacobs: Yes!

Rabbi Jacobs: I spoke with my Mashpiim (Chasidic mentors).

Rebbe: Yes. What was their opinion?

Rabbi Jacobs: After Pesach, it would be a good idea...

Rebbe: 'After Pesach?!' It is now a full week after Pesach and you are not doing anything about it! It is now a full week after Pesach! What is your age?

Rabbi Jacobs: Twenty-five.

Rebbe: That is a proper time to become a choson (groom) and after that to found a family.

Mrs. Jacobs: Sure!Rebbe (Facing Rabbi Jacobs): How long do you intend on being here?

Rabbi Jacobs: I wrote to the Rebbe shli"ta (blessing for longevity), regarding what would be the best thing thing for me. I learn in Kfar Chabad, and I recently entered shiur aleph (first class of Yeshiva) in Kfar Chabad. Rebbe: Have you received smicha (Rabbinic Ordination)?

Rabbi Jacobs: No.

Rebbe: Have you studied for smicha ?

Rabbi Jacobs: No.

Rebbe: Do you not plan on studying for smicha ?

Rabbi Jacobs: I spoke with Rabbi G... and usually a year after the wedding is a good time to begin.

Rebbe: But to be... to be a year after the wedding, you must first have the wedding! You can't begin now a year after the wedding! (all laughing)

Rebbe (addressing Mrs. Jacobs): Do you have someone for him?

Mrs. Jacobs: No.

Rebbe (addressing Rabbi Jacobs): Have you begun looking around?

Rabbi Jacobs: One in Kfar Chabad, but it was nothing.

Rebbe: What are your plans, to look here, or in Kfar Chabad, eretz Yisroel ?

Rabbi Jacobs: I asked the Rebbe shli"ta what would be the best thing. I spoke with Moshkeh Neparstok (head mashpiah in Kfar Chabad Rabbinical school), and expressed to him that my parents want me to stay in America for a while. I haven't seen them for a few years while I was in Kfar Chabad. I asked the Rebbe shli"ta, to stay here for a few weeks, until Shavuot and maybe study here. However I don't see a good shiur (class) here. The question is whether to look for a shiduch here or return to Kfar Chabad?

Rebbe: If your parents don't have anyone special for you, I believe it will be easy for you to find a shidduch in eretz Yisroel. How many years have you been in eretz Yisroel now?

Rabbi Jacobs: Almost three years.

Rebbe: Three years! Then I assume you have many friends in eretz Yisroel, and friends from your studies who are now married and live in eretz Yisroel. It makes sense, in the natural course of things, that it will be easier for you to find a proper Shidduch in eretz Yisroel than here. It is a custom amongst Jews to give a Jew a shlichus for Tzedakoh (mission for charity), and I would like to give each of you a dollar to which you will give its equal to tzedakoh. I give you my blessings, and all good things necessary.

Good Shabbos.

Menachem,

Copyright © Menachem Kirschenbaum 2007

The Doctor "Rebbe Do You Feel Pain Around your Heart"

"In the middle of the fourth Hakofo the Rebbe didn't feel well and became very pale. The Rebbe asked me to bring his chair closer and sat down caressing his heart."

-Rabbi Groner

Rosh Chodesh Kislev marks the day that the Rebbe left 770 and went home after suffering a severe heart attack on Simchas Torah. In honor of this day, I would like to present part of a diary one of the Rebbe's secretaries wrote describing how they realized the Rebbe has the heart attack. Special thanks to Efraim Levine.

The Heart Attack

"In the middle of the fourth Hakofo the Rebbe didn't feel well and became very pale. The Rebbe asked me to bring his chair closer and sat down caressing his heart. I immediately asked that the doctors who were there to come over but the Rebbe did not let them check him. Meanwhile they brought the Rebbe water but he didn't want to drink it saying that he had not yet made Kiddush.

In the interim between the fifth and sixth Hakofo the Rebbe sat down but during the fifth and sixth Hakofos themselves he stood leaning on his "stender."

The doctor asked the Rebbe if he feels pain around his heart and the Rebbe answered, yes. The doctor asked "does the pain feel like a hammer pounding or like needles pricking? The Rebbe replied "like needles pricking.

I am Not Going To The Hospital

"The Rebbe went out of his room and entered the Succa, but sat down immediately and his face turned yellow from pain. The doctor told the Rebbetzin that such pain comes from a heart attack. A few minutes passed and the Rebbe stood up and made Kiddush. He washed and ate only a "kezayis challa", a small piece of fish and meat. Afterwards, he “bentched” and went back to his room.

When he entered his room he said to me: "Now the doctors can do what ever they want." Meanwhile, a bed was brought down from upstairs and the Rebbe is resting on the bed. The doctors examined the Rebbe and unanimously said that the Rebbe must go to the hospital immediately because to remain here is a matter of life or death. The Rebbe responded by saying that under no circumstances will he go to the hospital.

In the meantime several heart specialists arrived in the Rebbe's room and they also said that the Rebbe must go to the hospital. But the Rebbe told me: "Tell them that I will not budge from 770 and if something has to happen let it happen in 770…"
I won't be there

Towards the evening the Rebbe told me that there certainly will be a farbrengen Simchas Torah as every year, therefore, I should go downstairs in middle of the farbrengen and give over in my name: "Even though now there is a vacant spot this only prepares the way to enable this space to be filled even more than before. As with a syringe first one has to create a vacuum only that can the syringe be later filled. G-d's intention behind his self-concealment is for the sake of future self-revelation." Tell this to Reb Yoel and ask him to expound it at length according to Chassidus."

When I informed the Rebbe that I gave over his words and that Reb Yoel was now elaborating on it to the crowd, he told me: Take the cup of wine that I made Kiddush over it and the bottle of wine – give it to Rabbi Mentlik, and after Birchas Hamazon and the Maariv services he should distribute it among the participants. And tell them that after Maariv there will be another announcement!

Menachem.

Copyright © Menachem Kirschenbaum 2007