LIVING WITH MOSHIACH, Parshat Chukat B"H LIVING WITH MOSHIACH Weekly Digest About Moshiach PARSHAT CHUKAT, 5779 9 Tamuz, 5779 July 12, 2019 SPECIAL FEATURES: 1. A Summer Message From The Rebbe 2. Gimel Tamuz 3. Yud-Beis Tamuz ********************************************* * This week's issue of Living With Moshiach * * is dedicated in loving memory of * * Mrs. Aita Leah bas Reb Meir Michel * * Stayer * * Passed away on 29 Nissan, 5774 * * * * * May her Soul Merit Eternal Life * ********************************************* ************************************************* * This week's issue is sponsored in part by: * * Holy Sparks - "http://www.holysparks.com" * * * * * Your premiere site for Jewish spirituality. * * * * * 5,779 Years of the Most Amazing Jewish Wisdom * * recorded in calligraphy, especially for you! * * * * * Explore your potential: * * Jewish Books, Art & Wisdom For Our Time. * * FREE art! * ************************************************* >> A Jewish Response To Terrorism << http://www.torah4blind.org/lwm-5762/269.htm *************************************************** * Visit TruePeace.org * * "http://www.truepeace.org" * * Dedicated to educating the public regarding the * * current situation in Israel, based on Torah * * sources, with special emphasis on the opinion * * and teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe * *************************************************** Published Weekly By Lubavitch Shluchim Conferences On The Moshiach Campaign, Committee For The Blind * * * 5779 **************************************************** * VISIT US ON THE WEB, AT: * * http://www.torah4blind.org * **************************************************** * TO RECEIVE THIS PUBLICATION VIA INTERNET: * * E-Mail: info@torah4blind.org * * or: * * http://www.torah4blind.org/subs.htm * **************************************************** * JEWISH CHILDREN: * * Get your own letter in a Sefer Torah! * * http://www.kidstorah.org * **************************************************** * Kids! We Want YOU To Join * * Tzivos Hashem (The Army of G-d) * * http://www.torah4blind.org/tzivos-h.htm * **************************************************** * MOSHIACH - CHILDREN'S PAGE * * http://www.torah4blind.org/children/index.htm * **************************************************** * THE SEVEN UNIVERSAL LAWS OF NOAH: * * http://www.torah4blind.org/noahide.htm * **************************************************** THIS PUBLICATION IS DEDICATED TO THE REBBE, RABBI MENACHEM M. SCHNEERSON OF LUBAVITCH "I BELIEVE WITH COMPLETE FAITH IN THE ARRIVAL OF THE MOSHIACH. "AND THOUGH HE MAY TARRY, I SHALL WAIT EACH DAY, ANTICIPATING HIS ARRIVAL." Maimonides, Principles of the Faith, No. 12 ********************* * TABLE OF CONTENTS * ********************* * Introduction. * Customs Corner. * The Weekly Torah Portion. * The Rebbe's Prophecy. * Moshiach Matters (I). * A Summer Message From The Rebbe. * Graduation Time. * Torah Summer Camps. * Some Packing Tips. * In G-d We Trust. * The Rebbe Is The "Head". * Mission (not yet) Accomplished. * Gimel Tamuz. * Nothing By Chance. * Living With The Rebbe Today! * Getting Ready For Moshiach. * Moshiach Matters (II). * Miracles and Mathematics. * History-Making Events. * Yud-Beis Tamuz. * A Lesson In Survival. * It Happened Once. * Time for Unity; Time for Strength! * A Call To Action. * The Weekly Shabbat Calendar. * "Let There Be Light" - The Jewish Women's Guide to Lighting Shabbat Candles. * Laws of Shabbat Candle Lighting for the Blind. * Shabbat Candle Lighting Blessing. * Moshiach Information Hotlines. * Moshiach In The Air -- Electronic Media. * Subscription Information for this Weekly Magazine: Living With Moshiach. **************** * INTRODUCTION * **************** We are pleased to present, to the visually impaired and the blind, the 1140th issue of our weekly publication, Living With Moshiach. * In this week's issue, we focus on: 1) A summer message from the Rebbe. 2) Gimel Tamuz, the 3rd day of Tamuz, Shabbat Parshat Korach, Sat., July 6. 3) Yud-Beis Tamuz, the 12th day of Tamuz, Monday, July 15. * In connection with July 4th, we focus on "In G-d We Trust" that proudly appears on all paper and coin currency of the United States Of America. * Our sincere appreciation to L'Chaim weekly publication, published by the Lubavitch Youth Organization, for allowing us to use their material. Also, many thanks to our new copy editor, Reb Benyomin Hoffman, for his tireless efforts,. and, many thanks to our former copy editor, Reb Mordechai Staiman, of blessed memory ("http://www.torah4blind.org/staiman"), for his tireless efforts. * It is our fervent hope that our learning about Moshiach and the Redemption will hasten the coming of Moshiach, NOW! Rabbi Yosef Y. Shagalov Executive Director Enlightenment For The Blind, Inc. E-Mail:yys@torah4blind.org 28 Sivan, 5779 Los Angeles, California P.S.: As we are eagerly awaiting the immediate arrival of Moshiach, at any moment, we have included the five blessings that (according to many opinions) will be applicable when Moshiach comes. ************************************************* * IN LOVING MEMORY OF * * Horav Schneur Zalman Halevi * * ben Horav Yitzchok Elchonon Halevi * * Shagalov * * Passed away on 21 Tamuz, 5766 * * * * Reb Dovid Asniel ben Reb Eliyahu * * Ekman * * Passed away on 5 Sivan - Erev Shavuot, 5765 * * * * Mrs. Devora Rivka bas Reb Yosef Eliezer * * Marenburg * * Passed away on the second day * * of Rosh Chodesh Adar, 5766 * * * * Reb Yitzchok Moshe (Ian) ben Reb Dovid Asniel * * Ekman (Santiago, Chile) * * Passed away on 24 Shevat, 5769 * * * * May Their Souls Merit Eternal Life * * * * AND IN HONOR OF * * Mrs. Esther Shaindel bas Fraidel Chedva * * Shagalov * * * * * Dedicated by * * Rabbi & Mrs. Yosef Yitzchok and Gittel Rochel * * Shagalov * ************************************************* ****************** * CUSTOMS CORNER * ****************** Are there special blessings that we will recite when Moshiach comes? According to many opinions there are five blessings that will be applicable when Moshiach comes. [*] #1 BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM GA'AL YISRAEL. Translation: Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe, Who redeems Israel. #2 BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM SHE-HECHE-YO-NU VE-KI-YE-MO-NU VE-HIGI-O-NU LIZ-MAN HA-ZEH. Translation: Blessed are you, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe, Who has granted us life, sustained us and enabled us to reach this occasion. #3 BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM SHE-CHA-LAK M'CHACH-MA-TO L'REI'AV. Translation: Blessed are you, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe, Who has given wisdom to those who fear Him. #4 BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM SHE-CHA-LAK M'KI-VODO L'REI'AV. Translation: Blessed are you, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe, Who has given honor to those who fear Him. #5 BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM CHA-CHAM HA-RA-ZIM. Translation: Blessed are you, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe, the Wise One of secrets. _______________ *. Adapted from "L'Chaim weekly" publication, Issue #1003, published by the Lubavitch Youth Organization, Brooklyn, NY. "www.lchaimweekly.org". ********************************************* * IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR DEAR GRANDPARENTS,* * * * Reb Shmuel Pesach Ben Reb Yaakov Dovid * * Passed away on 3 Tishrei, 5755 * * * * Mrs. Fraidel Chedvah Bas Reb Zev Wolf * * Passed away on 4 Adar II, 5755 * * Pais * * * * May Their Souls Merit Eternal Life * * * * * Dedicated by their grandchildren * * Rabbi & Mrs. Yosef Y. and Gittel Rochel * * Shagalov * ********************************************* *************************************** * THE WEEKLY TORAH PORTION * * Adapted from the Works of the Rebbe * *************************************** PARSHAT CHUKAT This week's Torah portion, Parshat Chukat, begins with the laws of the red heifer, by which a person was cleansed of ritual defilement. Maimonides, in his summary of these laws, includes an interesting historical note on this practice: "There have been a total of 9 red heifers since the time this mitzvah was given until the destruction of the Second Holy Temple. The first was rendered by Moses, the second by Ezra the Scribe, and seven more between the time of Ezra and the destruction. The tenth red heifer will be rendered by King Moshiach, may he be speedily revealed, amen, may it be Your will." These last few words seem out of place. Why did Maimonides, the greatest codifier of Jewish law, include a prayer for Moshiach to be revealed in the middle of a legal work? Every word Maimonides used is measured and exact. Indeed, many practical implications are learned from his choice of language. Why then, did Maimonides include this supplication in his discussion of these laws? Maimonides' intent could not have been solely to teach us the importance of praying for Moshiach, for he would certainly have deemed it more appropriate to include this prayer in the section of his work dealing with the laws of Moshiach, and not in a section in which Moshiach is mentioned only in passing. Rather, the inclusion of these words, inserted after only a passing reference to Moshiach, serve to underscore that the subject of Redemption must evoke a profound longing in every Jew, culminating in the heartfelt plea -- "May he be speedily revealed, amen, may it be Your will!" On the belief in Moshiach, Maimonides writes, "He who does not believe in him, or does not await his coming . . . denies . . . the Torah and Moses our teacher." It is not enough to have faith in Moshiach's eventual arrival -- a Jew is obligated to actively anticipate his coming. The faith of a person who believes Moshiach will come but does not actually expect him to arrive is lacking. Just as the belief in Moshiach is perpetual, so too, is the obligation to joyfully anticipate his arrival a perpetual commandment. A Jew must always feel as if Moshiach will arrive at any moment, for indeed, such is the case. Three times a day we pray, "For we hope for Your salvation every day" -- all day, every day. This unquenchable longing for Moshiach stems from our realization that a Jew cannot be complete until the Final Redemption, when the entire world will reach its perfection. Every minute till then, we find ourselves in a state of spiritual deficiency. The lesson, therefore, to be learned from Maimonides' choice of words is that when a Jew anticipates Moshiach in the proper way, the very mention of the subject must elicit such strong emotion and longing that he will spontaneously cry out, "May he be speedily revealed, amen, may it be Your will." ************************ * THE REBBE'S PROPHECY * ************************ The Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson of Lubavitch, issued a call that "THE TIME OF OUR REDEMPTION HAS ARRIVED!" and "MOSHIACH IS ON HIS WAY!" The Rebbe stressed that he is saying this AS A PROPHECY, and asks us all to prepare ourselves for the Redemption, through increasing acts of goodness and kindness. LET US ALL HEED THE REBBE'S CALL. ______________ See "Living With Moshiach" Vol. 1095: http://www.torah4blind.org/lwm-5778/1095.txt ******************************************************* * IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR DEAR FRIEND AND COPY EDITOR * * Reb Mordechai ben Reb Shaul * * Staiman * * Passed away on 22 Tamuz, 5763 * * * * May His Soul Merit Eternal Life * ******************************************************* ************************ * MOSHIACH MATTERS (I) * ************************ Just as the first Redeemer (Moses) was revealed and then concealed from them [the Jewish people], similarly, also the final Redeemer will be revealed to them [the Jewish people] and then concealed. (Bamidbar Rabba 11:2) ************************************** * A SUMMER MESSAGE FROM THE REBBE * * Adapted from a Letter of the Rebbe * ************************************** To Jewish Students and School Children Everywhere G-d Bless You All! Greeting and Blessing: Vacation time is approaching, to release youths and children, boys and girls, from Yeshivahs, Talmud Torahs, Day Schools, etc., for a long summer recess. The importance of a restful vacation is obvious. However, certain aspects of vacation time should be examined carefully. Is vacation time a stoppage of study, or is it a transition from one form of activity to another? In all living forms, there is no such thing as a stoppage of life, followed by a completely new start, for a stoppage of life is death, and cannot serve as a temporary rest period. There can be a transition from one form of activity to another, but not a cessation or stoppage. For example: The two most vital organs in our body are the heart and the brain. The heart is the principal seat of "physical" life; the brain is the principal seat of "intellectual" life. Because the heart and the brain have supreme control of the body, they are called "the Sovereigns of the body." Now, these organs not only do not cease to operate in a living body, but they do not even undergo a radical change in their form of activity. And inasmuch as the actions of the other organs are being led by the activity of the heart and brain, it follows that the other organs of the body, though they may seem to be in a state of inactivity, as in the case of sleep, do not in reality stop working. This is even more obvious in the case of breathing. We find that during sleep, breathing is slowed down considerably, but it never stops, for the "breath of life" must always be there. Similarly in the case of students, boys and girls, studying our Torah, "Torat Chaim" -- The Torah of Life, restful vacation does not mean interruption and stoppage of Torah and Mitzvot, G-d forbid. It means only just another way of furthering their course of study, a period during which they renew their mental abilities and increase their capacities for a more intensive study later on. Therefore, my friends, bring light and holiness into your vacation time, by remembering always that it is the time of preparation in order to improve the quality and quantity of your studies during study-time to follow. But let it not remain so only in your thoughts and intentions; be always united with our holy Torah in your everyday actions and conduct. Let not a single day pass without the "breath of life" provided by the "Torah of Life." Let every one have appointed times for the study of Chumash, Mishnah, Talmud, and so on, each one according to his or her standard of Torah education. At this time, I wish everyone who is resolved to use his or her vacation in this productive "living" way -- much success, as well as on returning to normal study later on. With blessing, ******************* * GRADUATION TIME * ******************* Graduation ceremonies are taking place all over. From kindergarten students to those receiving their doctorates, commencement ceremonies are usually a high-point of the school year. These ceremonies are called "commencement" because, truly, the person is now beginning a new stage in his or her life. And, as the word commencement or even graduation implies, the person is hopefully going to proceed on to a newer and higher level. The above certainly applies to Jewish students in particular and all Jews in general. Each year we should be striving to graduate to a new and higher level of Jewish observance. Whatever level we have currently reached is adequate for today, but for tomorrow it is not enough. For, as we all must certainly know, if we stay in one place we stagnate; if we are not going up, inevitably we are going down. For those who have not had the opportunity to graduate even from the "kindergarten" of Judaism, one must never think that it is too late to start. As we learn from one of our greatest sages and teachers, Rabbi Akiva (who did not even learn the Hebrew alphabet until the age of 40), it is never too late to start. Though long overdue, it is incumbent upon each of us to start the educational process that will undoubtedly keep us growing and reaching up, for all our days. ********************** * TORAH SUMMER CAMPS * ********************** Summer is a great time for kids. Without the pressures of school, children have the opportunity to spend their summer vacation in enjoyable and educational pursuits. The summer schedule is particularly suitable for children to grow spiritually, by attending a day or overnight camp with a vibrant, exciting and Torah-true Jewish atmosphere. Each year, without exception, as the summer approached, the Rebbe emphasized the importance of Jewish children attending Jewish camps. The amount that a child can learn in the summer, unencumbered by the pursuit of reading, writing and arithmetic, goes far beyond what he can accomplish at any other time of year. And, as this knowledge is being imparted in an atmosphere of fun and excitement, in an environment totally saturated with Jewish pride, it remains with a child long after the summer months are over. It's still not too late to enroll your child in a Jewish camp. And it's certainly not too late to facilitate other children attending a Jewish camp if you do not have camp-age kids. By calling your local Chabad-Lubavitch Center, you can find out about a summer camp experience for someone you know whose benefit will last a lifetime. By the way, adults, too, should take advantage of the more relaxed atmosphere of summer to revitalize and nourish themselves Jewishly. Try a Jewish retreat or even just a weekly Torah class to enhance your Jewish pride and knowledge. And may this summer be our last one in exile and our first in the Era of the Redemption. ********************* * SOME PACKING TIPS * ********************* Have you made your summer plans yet? If you're intending to go away, you might already have started packing or thinking about what you'll take along with you. Usually, before we go anywhere -- even if it's just a day trip to the country -- we need to know what the weather is going to be like, what kind of activities we're going to be involved in and how long we'll be staying. This information makes our packing easier and the trip more pleasant. Imagine the ordeal of packing for a surprise, mystery trip. You'd have to take your whole wardrobe along -- not knowing whether you're going to a hot or cold climate, to casual or elegant affairs, or taking walking tours or sightseeing buses. Each and every mitzvah we do is a journey -- an excursion to self-betterment, an adventure to a heightened relationship with G-d, our fellowman, and ourselves. Mitzvot are not many people's typical idea of a vacation, though, certainly not the kind of lazy, laid back, relaxing vacation many of us envision when we're at the height of a frenzied, hectic day. They are a different kind of vacation, however, a kind of vacation you can go on every day of your life, every minute of your day. Because who doesn't want to take a vacation where you can visit new sights, reconnect to your past, carve out for yourself a place in history, experience something eternal. One of the greatest things about vacation via Torah and mitzvot is that because of the diversity of each mitzvah, you can experience the whole spectrum of vacations each and every day that you do different mitzvot. Relax by communicating with G-d (praying in the vernacular), putting on tefillin, lighting Shabbat candles. Bathe in the vast sea of Torah that is available through attending classes, reading books, or listening to pre-taped lessons in the privacy of your home. Be dazzled by the bright lights of the Infinite Light (Ohr Ein Sof) when you contemplate G-d's greatness and the purposefulness of the world and its every creation. Wine and dine at sumptuous banquets on Shabbat and holidays. Exercise your conscience and workout on your self-control by fulfilling the mitzvot between one person and another: not being jealous; loving your fellowman; judging everyone favorably; honoring your parents. The list goes on. But, what kind of packing should you do for a vacation of mitzvot? The rule of thumb that the better you've packed the more you'll enjoy your vacation applies to mitzvot as well. Ask questions! Find out why, when, and how to do each mitzvah. Learn the significance and the inner meaning behind the customs. Pack in all of the knowledge you can as you go along. But, don't hesitate to do a mitzvah just because you think you might not be properly prepared. After all, would you pass up a surprise, mystery trip just because preparing is a hassle or you didn't have a chance to pack? Enjoy your vacation! ******************* * IN G-D WE TRUST * ******************* Do you have any money? No, this isn't a shake-down. But, if you have a U.S. one dollar bill, pull it out before continuing to read this article. Being such an integral aspect of our lives, there must be something valuable money can teach us! Turn to the side of the dollar bill that doesn't have the picture of George Washington. The most conspicuous item, you will notice, is the word, "ONE." "One" is a very prominent concept in Judaism. A basic tenet of our faith is that G-d is one and there is nothing but G-d in the world -- the belief that nothing exists but G-d, or that everything exists only because of G-d is ultimate oneness. Interestingly enough, the word "one" is directly below another major Jewish concept, "In G-d We Trust." The Jewish people's trust and faith in G-d has kept us going throughout the ages. This trust, however, is not limited to the Jewish people as a group, but encompasses our individual lives as well. Kabbala teaches -- and the Baal Shem Tov expounds on this teaching -- that we are never alone, G-d is always with us. Even in a person's darkest moments, G-d is with him and we can put our trust in Him, because each person is truly one with G-d. The concept of the oneness of the entire universe is further reflected in the Latin phrase in the eagle's beak, "E Pluribus Unum," meaning, "From many you make one." The eagle is holding arrows in one claw and what many horticulturists consider to be an olive branch in the other claw. This suggests the time of peace spoken about by our great prophet Isaiah when we will "beat our swords into plowshares..." The number of arrowheads, the number of leaves on the olive branch, the number of stars above the eagle's head, are all 13. Thirteen, certainly, was the number of the original Colonies. But in addition, and perhaps not so coincidentally, it is the numerical equivalent of the Hebrew letters in the word echad, which means "one." Also, the stars above the eagle's head, in the shape that has become known as a "Jewish star" and has become a symbol of Judaism, have light emanating from around them. The Jewish people were commanded by G-d to be "a light to the nations." Let's look for a moment at the other sphere across from the eagle -- the one containing the pyramid. Two Latin phrases are in this circle. "Annuit Coeptis," according to the Webster dictionary, means, "He [G-d] has favored our undertaking." The second phrase, "Novus ordo seclorum," means "a new order of the ages," which in yesterday's lingo would be "a new world order" and in today's lingo "the Era of the Redemption." The pyramid itself -- work of human beings -- is incomplete. It becomes complete only when joined with the eye, symbolizing most probably G-d's all-seeing Eye. It is only when we connect the work of our own hands with G-d and when we acknowledge G-d's assistance in our own work that we can complete our job. As G-d tells us, "Not through your courage nor through your strength, but with My spirit." Just as the eagle symbolizes the United States, the pyramid is symbolic of a country -- though much more ancient than the USA. The pyramid is Egypt -- the location of the Jewish people's first exile. It is from Egypt that the first Redeemer, Moses, took us out and brought us to freedom and the Giving of the Torah. And it is from our last place of exile -- symbolized by the eagle -- that the call has come forth, "The time of our Redemption has arrived. Get ready for the coming of Moshiach." ************************************** * THE REBBE IS THE "HEAD" * * Adapted from a Letter of the Rebbe * ************************************** Gimel Tamuz, 5710/1950 . . . Many seek to explain the qualities and greatness of the Chabad Rebbes in general, and in particular the Rebbe of our generation, my father-in-law, of blessed memory, in various areas: as a man of self-sacrifice, of Torah genius, of lofty character, a tzaddik, of prophetic ability, a miracle-worker, etc., etc. These qualities are further magnified when viewed in the light of chasidic teaching, which explains what is true Torah genius, and so on. And yet, none of this addresses the primary quality of the Rebbe, a quality that is not only primary in essence, but which is most important to us, his chasidim and followers, namely the fact that he is a Nassi, and particularly a Chabad Nassi. A Nassi, broadly defined, is a "head of the multitudes of Israel." He is their "head" and "mind," their source of life and vitality. Through their attachment to him, they are bound and united with their source on high. There are several types of Nesi'im: those who supply their constituents with internalized nurture (penimiyut), and those whose nurture is of a more "encompassing" nature (makif). This is further divisible into the particulars of whether they impart the teaching of the "revealed" part of Torah, or the esoteric part of the Torah, or both together; whether they offer guidance in the service of G-d and the ways of chasidim; whether they draw down material provision, and so on. There are also Nesi'im who are channels in several of these areas or even in all of them. Such was the nature of the leadership of the Nesi'im of Chabad, from the Alter Rebbe to and including my father-in-law, who embraced all these categories and areas: they nurtured their chasidim in both the "internal" and the "encompassing" qualities of their souls; in Torah, divine service and good deeds; in spirit and in body. Thus, their bond with those connected with them was in all 613 limbs and organs of their souls and bodies. Each and every one of us must know -- that is, dwell and implant the awareness in his or her mind -- that the Rebbe is our Nassi and head: that he is the source and channel for all our material and spiritual needs, and that it is through our bond with him (and he has already instructed us in his letters how and by what means this bond is achieved) [1] that we are bound and united with our source, and the source of our source, up to our ultimate source on high. _______________ 1. "You ask how you can be bound to me when I do not know you personally... "...The true bond is created by studying Torah. When you study my discourses, read the talks and associate with those dear to me... and you fulfill my request... in this is the bond." ("Hayom Yom" -- "From Day To Day," 24 Sivan) See also below "Living With The Rebbe Today!" Ed. ********************************** * MISSION (not yet) ACCOMPLISHED * ********************************** Many people express wonder at the fact that the Rebbe's leadership is spoken of in the present tense, that the Rebbe's leadership is uninterrupted despite our inability to perceive him physically. Jewish teachings state that G-d showed Adam, the first person, all future generations together with their great leaders. These leaders are the tzaddikim (righteous individuals) whose souls, G-d, in His wisdom and kindness, sent into this world to guide the generations, caring for them both spiritually and materially and showing the Jewish people the correct path to follow. Chasidic philosophy explains that these great leaders are the mind and the heart of the body of the Jewish people. Each generation has its own unique mission and role in the overall fulfillment of G-d's purpose in the entire creation: to create a "home" for G-d in this physical world through the revelation of Moshiach and the Redemption. In the Tanya of Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi, (the first Rebbe of Chabad-Lubavitch and the founder of Chabad Chasidic philosophy and the Chabad-Lubavitch dynasty), it is explained that earlier generations are like the head, their major preoccupation being Torah study; later generations, known as the "heels of Moshiach," are more closely associated with raw action. Our generation is characterized by "Action is the main thing," as the Rebbe told us. The Al-mighty sends each generation the leader appropriate to the task of the times. This leader comes to guide his generation in a unique direction in the fulfillment of G-d's purpose for creation commensurate with their own nature and purpose. Let us apply these principles to our own generation. In the first official Chasidic teaching articulated by the Rebbe when he accepted the mantle of leadership, the Rebbe declared unequivocally that the unique purpose of our generation, the seventh from Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi, is to fulfill the original intent of G-d's creation. This is to be achieved by drawing down G-d's presence into this mundane physical world with the complete revelation of Moshiach and the commencement of the Redemption. The Rebbe has told us numerous times in his most recent public talks that we have finished the Divine service of exile and that our purpose now is to prepare for the Redemption. "The time of your Redemption has arrived," the Rebbe declared with prophetic vision. This is a totally different message which has never before been enunciated in the history of the Jewish people. He explained that we should involve ourselves in more good deeds, more Torah study, the enhanced fulfillment of mitzvot, as a preparation and foretaste of the Redemption. However, until the Redemption actually begins, with the rebuilding of the Third Holy Temple in Jerusalem and the ingathering of all of the Jews from the Diaspora, the ultimate fulfillment of our purpose has not been achieved. Why the Al-mighty willed that the leadership of the Rebbe at the conclusion of the service of this generation should be in its current form will most likely remain a mystery until the completion of the process of Redemption. But what we know clearly is what the Rebbe himself has told us in no uncertain terms, that the role of our generation is to actually bring about the Redemption and to prepare ourselves and the entire world for it. Until this has been achieved, we remain in the same generation. The Rebbe and his leadership are very much of the present and will continue until G-d has mercy on us and our mission is crowned with success. *************** * GIMEL TAMUZ * *************** This date itself, while ingrained in the minds of Lubavitcher chasidim around the globe, has significance for all Jews and, indeed the entire world population. Although we have not seen the Rebbe with our physical eyes since Gimel Tamuz 25 years ago, his presence in the lives of his hundreds of thousands of chasidim and millions of admirers is evident. And the Rebbe's involvement in the thousands of institutions he established, and the hundreds of institutions set up since Gimel Tamuz 25 years ago, is palpable. Gimel Tamuz, Shabbat Parshat Korach, Sat., July 6, is the third day in the Hebrew month of Tamuz. The number three has much significance in Jewish teachings. Our Sages teach that the world stands on three pillars: Torah study, prayer, and acts of kindness. In addition, they teach that the tzaddik is the foundation of the entire world. What has been the thrust of the Rebbe, the foundation of the world, in 69 years of leadership? As is well known to our readers, since the Rebbe's acceptance of the mantle of leadership HE STATED CLEARLY THE PURPOSE OF OUR GENERATION, the seventh generation (since the inception of Chabad Chasidism), IS TO BRING THE REDEMPTION. And since then, the Rebbe has elucidated how we can accomplish this in a threefold campaign: through Torah study, prayer, and acts of kindness. Our Torah study should be increased in all areas of Jewish knowledge in general, chasidic philosophy in particular, and specifically those matters found everywhere in Jewish teachings that deal with Moshiach and the Redemption. Our prayers should be suffused with heartfelt requests of G-d to bring the Redemption, crying out, "How much longer?" and even to the point of demanding the Redemption (as explained by the Chofetz Chaim). Lastly, through love of our fellow Jew in general and even simple acts of kindness and good deeds, we can prepare ourselves for the Redemption and hasten its inception. May we be together with the Rebbe this year on Gimel Tamuz, not just "feeling" his presence but actually seeing the Rebbe, a soul in a physical body, leading us to the Holy Land and ushering in the complete and eternal Redemption. ********************* * NOTHING BY CHANCE * ********************* According to Jewish thought, especially as elucidated in the teachings of the Baal Shem Tov, nothing in this world happens by chance; everything -- even the movement of a blade of grass -- is governed by Divine Providence. Additionally, a tzaddik, a righteous person, has Divine powers of insight and far-reaching vision that allow him to see that which is unseen or not yet visible to the untrained eye. What can we glean from the Rebbe's very own thoughts on Gimel Tamuz? In the book Hayom Yom (From Day To Day, which the Rebbe compiled on the instructions of his father-in-law from the teachings of the previous Rebbes), the quote the Rebbe included for Gimel Tamuz, 5703/1943, reads: "A Jewish groan that, G-d forbid, arises from physical misfortune, is also a great repentance; how much more so, then, is a groan arising from spiritual distress, a lofty and effective repentance. The groan pulls him out of the depths of evil and places him on a firm footing in the realm of good." The Rebbe was assuring us, even then, that our groans resulting from that date, rather than paralyzing us, would ultimately point us in the right direction and inspire us to rededicate ourselves to the Rebbe's goal of bringing the revelation of Moshiach and the Redemption. In a letter dated Gimel Tamuz, 5710/1950, five months after the passing of the Previous Rebbe, the Rebbe described what a Rebbe is. [2] On Gimel Tamuz, 5751/1991 -- the last time the Rebbe spoke on that date until we are once more reunited -- the Rebbe discussed two historical events that occurred on Gimel Tamuz. The more recent event was in 5687/1927, when the Previous Rebbe was released from Soviet prison and exiled to Kostrama for three years. Before his release to internal exile he had been sentenced to death. Thousands of years earlier, Gimel Tamuz was the day on which Joshua beseeched G-d to allow the sun to stand still in the sky so as to be able to continue the Jewish people's battle against the enemy and be victorious. The Rebbe notes, in the talk of 28 years ago, that both of these events were miracles, but miracles that occurred within the realm of nature rather than totally outside of nature. The Rebbe connects these points to an event in the weekly Torah portion of that year, which was the portion of Korach. In Parshat Korach we read of G-d's command to Moses to take the staffs of princes of the 12 tribes, including that of Aaron the Kohen Gadol (High Priest), and to place them overnight in the Tent of Meeting. The staff that is rejuvenated, G-d informs Moses, will be the one belonging to the family that rightfully serves as priests. This miracle, G-d assures Moses, will surely end the complaints of the Jewish people against Moses and Aaron. Aaron's staff sprouted, blossomed and even bore fruit. And the staff became an eternal sign to the Jewish people of the validity of the priesthood being with Aaron and his descendants. As we await the immediate revelation of the Rebbe, may we all sincerely attempt to implement the Rebbe's call to ALL men, women and children of our generation to "DO EVERYTHING YOU CAN TO BRING MOSHIACH IN ACTUALITY!" and to fulfill our last communal mission in this pre-Redemption world, "TO PREPARE OURSELVES AND THE ENTIRE WORLD TO GREET OUR RIGHTEOUS MOSHIACH!" _______________ 2. See above "The Rebbe Is The "Head"," for an adaptation from the original Hebrew. ******************************** * LIVING WITH THE REBBE TODAY! * ******************************** The Rebbe's followers, admirers, even people who have had only casual interaction with the Rebbe, are still "living with the Rebbe," following his directives, turning to him for advice, asking for his blessings. How is this being done? Studying the Rebbe's teachings is one of the most important and basic ways to live with the Rebbe. The Rebbe often quoted the Previous Rebbe's letters, which explain that a true connection with the Rebbe is attained only by studying the teachings of the Rebbe. The Rebbe clarified, though: "Most certainly the Rebbe is a tzaddik who bestows blessings; G-d surely fulfills his blessings to the utmost, to each and every individual, according to his need. Specifically, the Rebbe holds each person by the hand and guides him; one must only be careful not to involve his own will in the matter." Just two months after the Previous Rebbe's passing, the Rebbe wrote the following to someone: "You worry that now one cannot ask the Rebbe when he is in doubt how he should conduct himself. If you stand strong in your connection to him...and send your questions to the Rebbe's ohel [gravesite], the Rebbe will find a way to answer." Some people fax letters to the ohel (718-723-4444), some come from near or far to go personally. Others ask one of the Rebbe's secretaries to read the letter at the ohel. Another way people "live with the Rebbe" is by placing a letter to the Rebbe in any of the nearly 100 volumes of the Rebbe's Torah teachings or correspondence. This is, in fact, what chasidim of previous generations did when they were unable to correspond with their Rebbe in the conventional way. There's a modern twist, though. Today we have 36 volumes of Igros Kodesh -- letters written by the Rebbe to private individuals that were published (in Hebrew & English). As they are letters to private individuals -- and the Rebbe "custom fits" the advice to fit the soul -- there are different answers to similar questions. For instance, to one person who asks the Rebbe if he should move, the Rebbe answers yes. To another person the Rebbe's answer is no. After writing to the Rebbe, one opens the book "at random" and the advice in that letter is one's answer. [3] And we haven't heard of a case yet when one sincerely asks the Rebbe advice in this manner that there hasn't been an answer. _______________ 3. See below "Miracles and Mathematics." ****************************** * GETTING READY FOR MOSHIACH * ****************************** In the end of the summer of 5750/1990, clearly and unmistakably, the Rebbe announced that "The time of our Redemption has arrived." The Rebbe explained that this statement should be disseminated throughout the world. The world was now ready for the Redemption. What role are we to play? The Rebbe stated this clearly, as well. Our primary task, he said, is to study and teach about Moshiach, to live with the idea of Moshiach, to make essential changes in our way of looking at life, and to publicize his prophecy that Redemption was imminent, and that everyone should be actively preparing to greet Moshiach. The Rebbe's most recent talks consistently communicated the news that the time of the Redemption has arrived and that every individual can and must play an active role in hastening the Redemption. One of the ways this can be done, the Rebbe explained, is by permeating our lives with the awareness of the imminent Redemption. By attending classes at your local Chabad-Lubavitch Center, by listening to Torah classes on the internet or over the phone, by studying and reading the Rebbe's published talks and essays (available in many languages), you will connect to the Rebbe and everything he personifies. As we approach Gimel Tamuz, we know that as each moment passes, we are one moment closer to seeing in a revealed manner that, to quote the Rebbe, "Moshiach is coming," and "he has already come." We are one moment closer to recognizing that "the world is ready for Moshiach" and that "the time of the Redemption has arrived." We are one moment closer to being reunited with the Rebbe, and "he will redeem us." ************************* * MOSHIACH MATTERS (II) * ************************* "Some people are apprehensive about having the Redemption arrive so suddenly. What will come of all the businesses that they have set up, the property and possessions they have accumulated, the friendships and the contacts that have been established, and so on? "They need not worry. The Redemption does not imply the annulment of the natural order nor the loss of the good things that came into being (in the spirit of the Torah) during the exile. Indeed, these very things will be comprised in the Redemption, and will be elevated to a state of Redemption, to the level of their true consummation." (The Rebbe, 5751/1991) **************************** * MIRACLES AND MATHEMATICS * **************************** We have seen, beyond a doubt, that the Rebbe, a true shepherd, continues to guide and direct in areas both large and small. Since the Third of Tamuz, many people have written to the Rebbe. After "randomly" inserting the letter into one of the many volumes of the Rebbe's letters ("Igros Kodesh"), they have read the letters on that page and found their answer -- often startlingly to the point. * Kfar Chabad is a quiet village located near Tel Aviv, comprised of Lubavitcher chasidim. Stories of miracles of the Rebbe are not a new phenomenon to Kfar Chabad's residents. But in 5758/1998 a miracle took place there that not only deeply affected every resident of the Kfar, but made headlines all over Israel. Mrs. Shaindy Schechter, a lifelong resident of the Kfar, woke up one morning feeling ill. As the day wore on she became increasingly weak and had a severe headache. She visited her doctor who instructed her to check into the hospital. For three days she lay in the hospital, drifting in and out of consciousness. The doctors determined that she was suffering from a severe virus. When she finally regained consciousness, a doctor asked if she could see him. "If you turn on the lights, I'll be able to see you," she told him. But the lights were on; the virus had made her blind. The doctors explained to her that a virus was attacking the nerve that controlled her sight, and there was a possibility that she would remain blind permanently. They did not know of a cure. As she listened to the doctor's ominous prognosis, a voice screamed inside her head: "I will see! I will see!" She would not accept the condition. As the days went by, she began to see dark and light and some shadows; she had regained 25% of her vision. She was sent home as the doctors said there was nothing more they could do for her. When Shaindy got home, she and her husband composed a letter to the Rebbe for a blessing for her condition. They randomly opened one of the many volumes of Igros Kodesh. The letter that they had opened to contained the blessing, "and G-d will light up his eyes." After hearing these words, Shaindy felt strengthened. She was absolutely certain that she would see someday soon. She was confident that the Rebbe's blessing would be fulfilled, and each day she told her children that today could be the day. Shaindy exuded such confidence in the Rebbe's blessing that her husband bought a huge bottle of vodka in anticipation of the celebration they would hold with family and friends when her eyesight returned. In the Igros Kodesh it also said that one must make a vessel to receive G-d's blessing. So Shaindy visited a neurologist a number of times. The neurologist was not optimistic, but was not entirely discouraging either. Shaindy told the doctor of her blessing from the Rebbe and her belief in its fulfillment. The doctor refused to make any promises, but told Shaindy that she was welcome to continue hoping. Shaindy visited the doctor on Wednesday, May 6, 1998, and was told her vision might improve slowly, but it would take one to two years, perhaps longer. Even then, it might never fully return. The doctor's prognosis didn't upset Shaindy. When her husband inquired about the examination, she told him what the doctor had said, but added that it made no difference to her because she had the Rebbe's blessing. The following Friday afternoon there was a knock at the Schechter's door. Shaindy opened the door, and asked who it was. A woman responded, "It doesn't matter who I am. I just came to give you a dollar that the Rebbe gave to a friend for me when I was very ill. At the time, the doctors told me only a miracle could cure me. When the Rebbe gave the dollar, he said, 'For a miraculous recovery above nature.' I hope this dollar will help you." As the mysterious woman was about to leave, Shaindy asked her, "How can I return this to you if you don't tell me your name?" The woman replied that she would return to take it from her. Shaindy immediately gave charity as the Rebbe instructed people to redeem the dollars intended for charity in this manner. She recited Psalm 97, corresponding to the Rebbe's 97th year. She held the dollar to her heart then put it in her bedroom. On Shabbat morning Shaindy was sitting with her baby when suddenly she felt chills through her body. She looked up and saw the clock on the wall. It was 11:40 a.m. Perhaps she was having the same dream she had dreamt each night since her illness, that she could see again. Then she realized that she could see her baby in her arms. "I can see!" she cried and called her eldest daughter. At that moment she felt the Rebbe's presence very strongly. She felt extreme joy and she begged G-d "to open our eyes so we can see the Rebbe and to end this exile." Then Shaindy sent her daughter to shul to call her husband. Rabbi Schechter soon ran back to shul with the bottle of vodka they had purchased for this day. (Parts of Kfar Chabad are enclosed in a way that permits carrying on Shabbat.) As a crowd gathered, he told of his wife's miraculous cure. Soon people from all over Kfar Chabad had gathered to thank G-d for fulfilling the Rebbe's blessing. The women gathered in Shaindy's home to hear the story straight from her. At the close of Shabbat, reporters from the Israeli media converged on Kfar Chabad and Sunday's headlines told the story of how the Rebbe's blessing had restored Shaindy's eyesight. On Monday afternoon when the phone rang in the Schechter home, a woman's voice asked, "Shaindy, do you know who I am?" Shaindy recognized the voice as that of the woman who had brought her the Rebbe's dollar. The woman explained that she was sending a messenger to pick up the dollar. She was giving the messenger a "password" that Shaindy should ask for before handing over the dollar. When the messenger arrived she assured Shaindy that she herself did not know the identity of the woman but that she is "a simple woman like you and me." May we merit to achieve Shaindy's level of faith in the Rebbe and his prophecy that "The time of the Redemption has arrived" and "Behold, Moshiach is coming, and is already here." * * * Many might be inclined to brush off these episodes as mere chance or coincidence. As a professor of mathematics whose specialty is probability, Dr. Yaakov Reich [4] is well qualified to discuss the statistical probability of thousands of people receiving answers in this manner. "Fundamentally, what is happening here is that you have thousands of people who are independently doing this 'experiment,' known in mathematics as independent trials. The probability in independent trials is multiplied each time an additional trial is performed. For instance, if the probability of my trial coming up with the desired response is 50%, and the probability of your trial coming up with the desired response is 50%, then the probability of both of us coming up with the desired response is 25%," explains Dr. Reich. "Thus, if all of the letters any one person could have gotten that relate to their particular question is compared to the total number of letters, this kind of probability is less than 5%, even less than 1%. But let's be very conservative and say that one could somehow relate every tenth letter to his or her question. If there are thousands of people writing letters to the Rebbe to ask for his guidance and blessings, and only 50% get answers, the probability on such a large scale is extremely remote. And, of course, much more than 50% of the people who write to the Rebbe receive answers in this manner. One simply cannot attest this to a matter of interpretation anymore. Also, as happens often, specific details of the question such as a date, place or name appear in the answer. This reduces the probability of a chance many times. "We constantly hear of answers to specific questions, as has happened in our family [5] in a most incredible way. These responses are not random and cannot be attributed to chance. One can only conclude that the Rebbe is truly here with us. "I would like to emphasize that the mathematical explanation given above, far from being a proof of the miraculous nature of the Rebbe's answers, is rather an illustration--for mathematics, though the most abstract field in science, is finite and limited and therefore in essence cannot prove G-d Who is unlimited and infinite." On a non-statistical note, Dr. Yaakov Reich comments, "Looking back through Jewish history, there were times when selected, righteous individuals were able to receive guidance by opening a Bible or other holy book. Now an amazing phenomenon is happening. The Rebbe is accessible to everyone, anywhere, anytime. And the Rebbe answers immediately." In today's day of immediate gratification, an immediate answer is especially appreciated. Dr. Reich concludes: "As the Rambam explains, the occurrence of myriad of miracles 'while the world continues to operate in the usual manner' is a fundamental innovation of the messianic era, where the miracles will be the domain of everyone, not just a select few. As the Rebbe said in 5752/1992, 'Especially in these days, the days of Moshiach in which we find ourselves, all that is necessary is that we open our eyes.'" _______________ 4. Dr. Yaakov Reich, a highly regarded university professor in the field of mathematics, who has published several articles in distinguished academic journals, seems an unusual person to talk of miracles. But Dr. Reich, who is also a chasid, cherishes his ongoing relationship with the Rebbe, which impacts not only his spiritual life, but also his day-to-day decisions. Ed. 5. See Living With Moshiach, Vol. 67 Miracles and Mathematics. "http://www.torah4blind.org/lwm-5756/67.txt" ************************************** * HISTORY-MAKING EVENTS * * Adapted from a Letter of the Rebbe * ************************************** . . . At this time, in proximity to the anniversary of the geulah -- deliverance -- of my father-in-law, the Rebbe, of saintly memory, from the tyranny of the Soviet regime on the 12th-13th of Tamuz, it behooves us to reflect again on those history-making events and how they relate to every one of us here and now. For, as he indicated in his first letter on the occasion of the first anniversary of his geulah, and as we see it clearly now, his deliverance was more than a personal one; it was a turning point in the survival of Russian Jewry, and is of lasting significance for every Jew everywhere. This timely reflection should make every one of us all the more deeply appreciative of the blessing of freedom [which enables us] to live a full life of Torah and mitzvot. In addition, it should heighten our awareness of the sacred obligation to do one's utmost to spread and strengthen Yiddishkeit, with enthusiasm and love -- love of G-d, love of the Torah, and love of our Jewish brethren, which are inseparable. By his total mesiras nefesh [self-sacrifice], even in the face of overwhelming odds, and by his ultimate triumph, with G-d's help, the Previous Rebbe has shown the way, and, in fact, trodden the path, so that every Jew can follow in his footsteps, with complete assurance that when he is firmly resolved to work for Torah and Yiddishkeit, he will overcome whatever difficulties there may be, and be successful, with G-d's help. I hope and pray that the inspiration of the Previous Rebbe and the holiday of his Redemption will stimulate you and yours to redouble your efforts in the said direction in the days ahead, which will also widen the channels to receive G-d's blessings for you and yours, in all your needs, both material and spiritual. ****************** * YUD-BEIS TAMUZ * ****************** Monday, July 15, marks both the birthday of the Previous Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Schneersohn, and the 92nd anniversary of his liberation from Soviet prison and exile. When the Bolshevik revolution succeeded in overthrowing the Czarist regime in 5677/1917, it set about destroying religion. Judaism, and particularly Chabad-Lubavitch, was a prime target. The Previous Rebbe devoted himself to keeping the flame of Judaism alive in Communist Russia. So powerful was the Previous Rebbe's impact that at one point he was even offered a deal by the Communist government! He would be allowed to continue to support rabbis, ritual slaughterers, etc., and even continue to encourage Jews to attend prayer services. The deal had only one condition, that he had to stop educating the children in the ways of the Torah. To the Previous Rebbe this was unaccep-table, and he refused, saying, "If there are no children there will be no adults..." Without the proper Jewish education for our children, we as a nation, cannot survive. And even when the Previous Rebbe reached the shores of America, he continued to strengthen Jewish life by establishing schools here as well. The Previous Rebbe showed great courage and determination when it came to preserving the Jewish way of life through Jewish education. He stood up to both Communist oppression and to those here in America who told him that yeshivot couldn't thrive in the new world. His legacy, Chabad-Lubavitch schools the world over, has outlived Soviet Communism and continues to prove those who doubted him wrong. The Previous Rebbe was a living example of his teachings. His strength and courage were not for his personal needs, but for the spiritual and material needs of the ENTIRE Jewish people. Let us stand strong together, and demand from G-d what we need most, the arrival of our righteous Moshiach and the true and complete Redemption. * * * In a letter sent out by the Previous Rebbe on the first anniversary of his release from prison, the Rebbe explained that the 12th of Tamuz is a day of rejoicing for every single Jew: "It was not myself alone that the Holy One, blessed be He, redeemed on the 12th of Tamuz, but also those who love the Torah and observe its commandments, and so, too, all those who bear the name Jew -- for the heart of every person of Israel, irrespective of his particular level in the observance of the mitzvot, is perfectly bound with G-d and His Torah. . . . "This is the day on which the light of the merit of public Torah study banished the misty gloom of calumnies and libels. "It is fitting that such a day be set aside as a day of gatherings -- a day on which people arouse each other to fortify Torah study and the practice of Judaism in every place according to its needs . . . ." * * * The Previous Rebbe's redemption from prison is related to the ultimate Redemption through Moshiach and the personal redemption of every single Jew. How can this be so? The Previous Rebbe was the leader of the Jewish people of his generation. The great commentator Rashi explains, "The leader includes the entire people." Therefore, the redemption of the leader of the generation affects the entire generation. The Previous Rebbe himself emphasized this point in a letter that he wrote to his chasidim on the 1st anniversary of his release: "It was not myself alone that the Holy One, blessed be He, redeemed on the 12th of Tamuz, but also those who love the Torah and observe its commandments, and so, too, all those who bear the name Jew . . ." Our Sages have taught that on a person's birthday his mazal -- luck, or strength -- is stronger than at other times. This is true even after the person's passing. In addition, Judaism also teaches that the spiritual influences and energy that were present on a specific date in Jewish history repeat themselves and return on that same date throughout the ages. Thus, on the 12th of Tamuz, the birthday and anniversary of deliverance of the Previous Rebbe, all of these additional spiritual powers are in place. Let us hook into them and use this auspicious day for Torah study, additional good deeds and charity, and a special, heartfelt request from each of us to the Al-mighty to bring the Final Redemption immediately. ************************ * A LESSON IN SURVIVAL * ************************ The Russian Revolution had come to a close. Communism was the law of the land. Slowly but surely, the promised freedom and equality were disappearing. Rather than a society in which all men lived as brothers, a totalitarian regime emerged. Whoever did not conform was removed. In addition, the new government tried to stamp out all religion. It undertook the cruelest means to do so. Disappearances and executions abounded. All too quickly, living Judaism became scarce. The penalties for providing Jewish education or for merely living as a Jew were just too frightening. But one man rebelled. He was the Previous Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Schneersohn. The Previous Rebbe set up an underground network spanning thousands of miles. Throughout the length and breadth of Russia, his followers established underground shuls, schools and mikvehs (ritual baths). In the still of the night, in the dark of a cellar, adults and children gathered to learn and share the words of their holy tradition -- under the threat of arrest, even of death. The government soon caught on. They knew that one man was behind it all. As long as the Previous Rebbe was on the scene, they realized that the mighty Russian government would have to wait for its desires to be carried out. The government started sending spies to the Rebbe's talks to hear what he said. But fearless, in front of these spies, the Previous Rebbe continued to call upon his followers to defy the government, however dangerous it was, and to ensure that Judaism survived. And his followers listened. Though the dangers were worsening from day to day, they opened new schools, new shuls and new mikvehs. Eventually the government decided to do away with their opponent. On the night of the 15th of Sivan, 5687/1927, KGB agents called on the Previous Rebbe and led him away. They took him to the most feared jail in the city from which hardly anyone returned. They subjected him to the greatest disgrace and torture, but he continued to defy them. One day, while in prison, the Previous Rebbe was called in for an interrogation. He refused to reply to his tormentor's liking. The inquisitor took a gun in his hands, played around with it and said, "This little toy has made many people speak." "Yes," said the Previous Rebbe, "It has made many people speak. That is, people with many gods and but only one world. But for me, who has one G-d and two worlds -- this toy is meaningless." Jews throughout the world prayed for the Previous Rebbe's release. International governments applied great pressure on the Russians. Slowly the Previous Rebbe's sentence was made easier. The death sentence was revoked, and instead came ten years of forced labor. Then, this too was challenged. Eventually, the Previous Rebbe was freed from jail to proceed to a distant town where he was supposed to remain in exile for a period of three years. On the 3rd day of Tamuz, 5687/1927, the Previous Rebbe was exiled to the city of Kostrama. Before leaving to Kostrama, the Previous Rebbe was permitted to stop in his home for a few hours. The Rebbe then proceeded to the train station where a large group of chasidim awaited him. Before boarding the train, the Rebbe made strong statements to the assemblage, among them: "This, all nations on earth should know: Only our bodies were put in exile and subservience to kingdoms, but our souls were not driven into exile nor subservience to kingdoms. We must openly proclaim to all, that with regard to that which relates to our religion, Torah, mitzvot and Jewish customs, no one is going to impose his views on us, and no force has the right to subjugate us." After just a few days in exile, on the 12th of Tamuz, the day of his birthday, the Previous Rebbe was informed that this punishment, too, had been commuted, but being a local holiday, he received his official release papers the next day, on the 13th of Tamuz. The Previous Rebbe and his followers continued to adhere to Judaism and spread its message far and wide in defiance of the Russian government. To this very day, the underground network that the Previous Rebbe established in Russia still exists, though, thank G-d, now it can finally operate openly. About three months later, the Previous Rebbe left Russia a broken man physically, having been tortured in jail. But they were not able to touch him spiritually in the least. * A further stage in the Previous Rebbe's redemption was his coming to America, which brought about an increase in the work of spreading the teachings of Chasidus throughout the world. [6] And this increase in the spreading of the teachings of Chasidus continues even to this day. It serves to hasten the Redemption, as exemplified by the famous quote of Moshiach to the Baal Shem Tov that Moshiach would come when "your [the Baal Shem Tov's] teachings are spread outward." _______________ 6. See "Tes Adar II" in Living With Moshiach, Vol. 716: "http://www.torah4blind.org/lwm-5771/716.txt" ******************** * IT HAPPENED ONCE * ******************** The following story was related by Rabbi Zalman Notik, the mashpia -- spiritual advisor -- of Yeshivat Torat Emet in Jerusalem: [7] A group of yeshivah students were on their regular Friday afternoon schedule of helping Jewish boys and men put on tefillin. The students met a group of recent immigrants from the Soviet Union. The students were teaching the men how to put on tefillin when all of a sudden an old Russian-born Jew approached them excitedly: "You're from Lubavitch?" he asked them. "Do I have a story to tell you! "When I was a youth back in Russia," he began, "I used to attend the secret Torah gatherings (farbrengens -- chasidic gatherings) of the Lubavitchers. I also used to pray with them and went to their classes. "At one farbrengen I will always remember, the main discussion was the desire to be reunited with the Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok (the Previous Rebbe). We sang 'G-d should give us good health and life, and we will be reunited with our Rebbe.' Our intense yearning to be with the Rebbe was almost palpable, and was growing from minute to minute. "In the middle of the farbrengen, a few of the Chasidim suddenly stood up and decided to 'take action.' Grabbing some chairs, they turned them upside-down and arranged them in a row to make a 'train.' Just picture it -- grown men behaving like kindergarten children, sitting on overturned chairs and making believe they were going to the Rebbe! "Most of the others, myself included, stood around watching. We laughed at them and told them they were crazy. What ridiculous, childish nonsense! "But, do you know," concluded the man in amazement, "within a short time, all of the Chasidim who rode the 'train' received permission to leave Russia, and actually did go to the Rebbe. Whereas the rest of us, the 'normal' ones, were left behind. As you can see, most of us did not have the strength to keep up our observance of Torah and mitzvot (commandments), and are only now beginning to catch up..." _______________ 7. Adapted from Beis Moshiach Magazine. ************************************** * TIME FOR UNITY; TIME FOR STRENGTH! * ************************************** The most important principle in the Torah is the protection of Jewish life. It's more important than Shabbat, more important than holidays, even fasting on Yom Kippur. Right now, in Israel, and everywhere, Jews must stand together in unity and do whatever possible to protect Jewish life. The Rebbe teaches that there are TEN important MITZVOT we can do to protect life. See what you can do: 1) AHAVAT YISROEL: Behave with love towards another Jew. 2) LEARN TORAH: Join a Torah class. 3) Make sure that Jewish children get a TORAH TRUE EDUCATION. 4) Affix kosher MEZUZOT on all doorways of the house. 5) For men and boys over 13: Put on TEFILLIN every weekday. 6) Give CHARITY. 7) Buy JEWISH HOLY BOOKS and learn them. 8) LIGHT SHABBAT & YOM TOV candles. A Mitzvah for women and girls. 9) Eat and drink only KOSHER FOOD. 10) Observe the laws of JEWISH FAMILY PURITY. In addition the Rebbe urges that: Every Jewish man, woman and child should have a letter written for them in a SEFER TORAH.* Every person should study either the Rambam's Yad Hachazakah -- Code of Jewish Law -- or the Sefer HaMitzvos. Concerning Moshiach, the Rebbe stated, "The time for our redemption has arrived!" Everyone should prepare themselves for Moshiach's coming by doing random acts of goodness and kindness, and by studying about what the future redemption will be like. May we merit to see the fulfillment of the Rebbe's prophecy now! _______________ *. There are several Torah scrolls being written to unite Jewish people and protect Jewish life. Letters for children can be purchased for only $1. Send your Hebrew name and your mother's Hebrew name plus $1 to: "Children's Sefer Torah," P.O. Box 8, Kfar Chabad, 72915, Israel or via the Internet, at: http://www.kidstorah.org ******************** * A CALL TO ACTION * ******************** The Rebbe's slogan is: "The main thing is the deed." We therefore present from the Rebbe's talks, suggestions of what we can do to complete his work of bringing the Redemption. Enroll your child in a Torah Summer Camp The Rebbe spoke many times about the unique learning opportunity for Jewish children afforded by the months of summer vacation. Without the pressures of tests, homework, etc., children enrolled in camps permeated with a Torah atmosphere eagerly learn about their heritage and are instilled with pride in being Jewish. Creative methods are used to make Judaism come alive. The soul is nourished as the body and mind are strengthened through sports, crafts, etc. If you don't have camp-age children, help sponsor a child in a Torah camp. Call your local Chabad-Lubavitch Center for more information. Make Yud-Beis Tamuz Gatherings: In connection with the 12th of Tamuz, the Rebbe explained that it is customary to organize chasidic gatherings that will inspire people to study and spread the teachings of Chasidus. The Rebbe also said that "this will generate the potential of the transformation of the Three [8] Weeks [of mourning for the destruction of the Holy Temple] into a positive period, with the coming of the ultimate Redemption. Even before that Redemption comes, we will merit a succession of Divine miracles. When one Jew will ask another, 'What was the last miracle that happened?' he will be unable to answer because the miracles are taking place in such rapid succession. And these miracles will lead to the ultimate miracles, those which accompany the Redemption from exile." * For a 12th of Tamuz gathering in your area, contact your local Chabad-Lubavitch Center. _______________ 8. The "Three Weeks" begin, this year (due to Shabbat) on the 18th of Tamuz (Sunday, July 21, 2019), and continue until the 10th of Av (Sunday, August 11, 2019). Ed. *************************************** * In loving memory of * * HORAV CHAIM YEHUDA KALMAN * * Ben Horav Avrohom Yehoshua * * Marlow * * head of the Bet-Din (Rabbinical * * Court) of Crown Heights, * * Passed away, on Friday Morning, * * 20 Sivan, 5760 (June 23, 2000) * * * * May His Soul Merit Eternal Life * *************************************** ******************************* * THE WEEKLY SHABBAT CALENDAR * ******************************* ** JEWISH WOMEN AND GIRLS LIGHT SHABBAT CANDLES ** ******************************************************* * FOR LOCAL CANDLE LIGHTING TIMES: * * consult your local Rabbi, Chabad-Lubavitch Center. * * or: * * http://www.candlelightingtimes.org/shabbos * * * * FOR A FREE CANDLE LIGHTING KIT: * * contact your local Chabad-Lubavitch Center. * * * * FOR A LISTING OF THE CENTERS IN YOUR AREA: * * http://www.chabadworld.net * ******************************************************* >>>> Times Shown Are for Metro NY - NJ <<<< FRIDAY, JULY 12, EREV SHABBAT PARSHAT CHUKAT: * Light Shabbat Candles, [9] by 8:09 p.m. SATURDAY, JULY 13, SHABBAT PARSHAT CHUKAT: * On Shabbat following the afternoon prayer, we read Chapter 5 of Pirkei Avot -- Ethics of the Fathers. * Shabbat ends at NIGHTFALL, at 9:16 p.m. _______________ 9. The Shabbat candles must be lit 18 minutes *BEFORE* sunset. IT IS PROHIBITED AND IS A DESECRATION OF THE SHABBAT TO LIGHT THE CANDLES *AFTER* SUNSET. ********************************************* * May the Shabbat candles, of the millions * * of Jewish women and girls around the * * world, illuminate our way, until we very * * soon see the fulfillment of G-d's promise * * (as it is written in the Midrash * * (Yalkut Shimoni, Beha'alotecha)): * * "If you will observe the kindling of the * * Shabbat lights, you will merit to see * * the lights of the redemption of the * * Jewish people," speedily in our days, * * NOW! * ********************************************* *************************************** * "LET THERE BE LIGHT" * * - The Jewish Women's Guide * * to Lighting Shabbat Candles * * http://www.torah4blind.org/ltbl.htm * *************************************** *********************************** * LAWS OF SHABBAT CANDLE LIGHTING * * FOR THE BLIND * *********************************** Edited by Rabbi Y. K. Marlow O.B.M.* * A blind woman who lives alone should light her Shabbat candle(s) with a blessing. * If she is married to a non-visually impaired person, HER HUSBAND SHOULD LIGHT THE SHABBAT CANDLES WITH THE BLESSING. * If she is eating and lighting in the company of others who are non-visually impaired, and they lit the Shabbat candles, she should light her own Shabbat candle(s), BUT WITHOUT SAYING THE BLESSING. * (If at all possible, she should not be the last one to light the Shabbat candle(s), so that she can be absolved by the latter's blessing.) _______________ *. Head of Bet-Din (Rabbinical Court) of Crown Heights. ************************************ * SHABBAT CANDLE LIGHTING BLESSING * ************************************ * First light the candles. Then spread your hands out around the candles, drawing your hands inward in a circular motion three times to indicate the acceptance of the sanctity of Shabbat. You then cover your eyes and recite the following blessing: BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM A-SHER KI-DE-SHO-NU BE-MITZ-VO-SOV VE-TZI-VO-NU LE-HAD-LIK NER SHEL SHA-BOS KO-DESH. Translation: Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with His commandments, and commanded us to kindle the light of the holy Shabbat. * Uncover your eyes and behold the Shabbat lights. * The time of lighting is considered especially propitious for praying to G-d for health and happiness. The prayer is readily acceptable because it is offered during the performance of this great mitzvah of lighting Shabbat candles. CAUTION: The candles must be lit 18 minutes *BEFORE* sunset. IT IS PROHIBITED AND IS A DESECRATION OF THE SHABBAT TO LIGHT THE CANDLES *AFTER* SUNSET. ******************************************* * MOSHIACH INFORMATION HOTLINES * * http://www.torah4blind.org/hotlines.htm * ******************************************* ****************************************** * MOSHIACH IN THE AIR - ELECTRONIC MEDIA * * http://www.torah4blind.org/e-media.htm * ****************************************** ******************************** * LIVING WITH MOSHIACH * * Weekly Digest About Moshiach * ******************************** Annual subscription (for the 18-point, large type edition) $18.00. For a one-year subscription, make your check payable to: "Enlightenment For The Blind" and mail it to: 602 N. Orange Drive. Los Angeles, CA 90036 USA Name:__________________________________ Address:_______________________________ City:__________________________________ State:___________ Zip:_________________ Telephone: ( )____________________ Due to the generosity of our donors, we offer free subscriptions to all blind and handicapped people, public service libraries and non-profit organizations. **************************************************** * TO RECEIVE THIS PUBLICATION VIA INTERNET: * * E-Mail: info@torah4blind.org * * or: * * http://www.torah4blind.org/subs.htm * **************************************************** =========================================================== = End of Text: Living With Moshiach, Parshat Chukat, 5779 = ===========================================================