- Hilchos Pesach: There will be a special shiur for men & women with Rabbis Raichik & Nathenson about products permissible on pesach. Sunday, 10-11:30 am in KYY.
- Yeshivacation: Starting this Sunday 9 Nisan/April 1 through Pesach, there will be a wonderful learning program for the Bochurim of the LA area. The program is free of charge. Click here for full details.
- Maos Chitim: Those who would like to give money for Maos Chitim please go to www.chabadofla.com/Donate, or give a check to Rabbi Raichik.
- Koshering Keilim: Hag’olas Keilim will be done next door to the shul in the parking lot of Beis Yehudah, Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday, 12 - 6 pm.
- Selling Chometz: Rabbi Raichik will be available in the Shul to sell your Chometz beginning on Sunday, Nisan 9-April 1, from 9 to 10 am, and for a half hour after Maariv, or by appointment.
If you are leaving out of state, there is a special mechiras chometz form for a sale that will be done earlier. Rabbi Raichik will accept these forms until Wednesday Night, Nisan 12. - Shaimos: Please do not bring your shaimos to shul. There are shaimos services that will pick up for a small fee. The Yeshiva also has a shaimos depository. Shaimos left in the shul ends up in the garbage.
- Questions: For answers to Pesach Shailos please call the Rov between 9:30 & 10:30 pm at (323) 930-2759
- Lockers & Personal Items: Please remember to clean out your lockers by Wednesday, NIsan 12 so that the shul can be properly cleaned. All personal items must be removed from all public areas. Anything left on Wednesday after Maariv will be thrown away.
- Matzah: As every year the Shul will help people buy Matzah, for themselves or for Mivtzoim. Please call and order, let us know what you need and when you will be picking it up. (We will provide envelopes and brochures).
Shul Bulletin
Pesach Announcements
Announcements
- Click here for this weeks KYY newsletter.
- Farbrengen in shul for men with Rabbi Shapiro in honor of 11 Nisan, Monday night, 8pm.
- The Shul has a web page for members to advertise their goods or services leading up to Pesach. If you want to be featured, please email us your flyer or announcement. Attachments must be in pdf or jpeg format. Note: The shul reserves the right to reject and/or modify any submission for any reason. Click here to see the page.
- Special pre-pesach jewelry show this Sunday, at Maayon Yisroel. Click here for more info.
- Please say Tehillim for Shmuel Choni ben Leah, Rochel Bas Simcha Chaya, Devorah Miriam bas Sarah and for Rachamim Oscar ben Rochel.
Shabbos Schedule
- Shabbos Candle Lighting: 6:55 pm
- Shiur Chassidus with Rabbi Raichik: 9:00 am
- Last Time To Read Shema: 9:48 am
- Early Minyan Shacharis: 9:30 am
- Shacharis: 10:00 am
- Kol Yakov Yehuda: 10:15 am
- Mesibos Shabbos for Girls: 3:30 pm in Shul
- Shiur in Hilchos Pesach with Rabbi Raichik: 6:00 pm
- Mincha: 6:55 pm
- Shabbos Ends: 7:58 pm
Kiddush Sponsors
- Mr. & Mrs. Milton Goodman for the yahrtzeit of Mr. Milton Goodman’s brother Avrohom Ben Yisroel ob"m. May the neshomo have an aliya.
- Rabbi & Mrs. Shmuel Fogelman for the yahrtzeit of Rabbi Shmuel Fogelman’s brother Chaim Yosef ע"ה ben יבלחט"א harav Yehuda Tzvi 'שיחי. May the neshomo have an aliya.
Also in honor of Mrs. Shterny Fogelman’s birthday. May she have a shnas hatzlocho begashmiyus ubruchniyus.
Also in honor of their daughter Chaya Mushka’s birthday. May she have a shnas hatzlocho begashmiyus ubruchniyus. - Rabbi & Mrs. Shmuel Raigorodsky in honor of Rabbi Shmuel Raigorodsky’s birthday. May he have a shnas hatzlocho begashmiyus ubruchniyus.
The kiddush for the early minyan is sponsored by:
- Rabbi & Mrs. Shmuel Fogelman for the yahrtzeit of Rabbi Shmuel Fogelman’s brother Chaim Yosef ע"ה ben יבלחט"א Harav Yehuda Tzvi 'שיחי. May the neshomo have an aliya.
Also in honor of Mrs. Shterny Fogelman’s birthday. May she have a shnas hatzlocho begashmiyus ubruchniyus.
Also in honor of their daughter Chaya Mushka’s birthday. May she have a shnas hatzlocho begashmiyus ubruchniyus.
Women's Shabbos Shiur & Farbrengen
At the home of Mrs. Yehudit Schneerson
364 N Fuller Ave.
5:30 pm
Speaker: Rabbi Shaya Berkowitz
Mazal Tov To
- Mr. Gidon Fine - 9 Nisan
- Mr. Chaim Chodorow - 13 Nisan
- Mr. Boruch Greenbaum - 13 Nisan
Upcoming Anniversaries:
- Mr. & Mrs. Allan Stark - 8 Nisan
Upcoming Yahrtzeits:
- Avrohom Ben Yisroel (Mr. Milton Goodman’s brother) - 10 Nisan
- Chaim Yosef ben Yehuda Tzvi (Rabbi Shmuel Fogelman’s brother) - 12 Nisan
Upcoming Yahrtzeits
- Avrohom Ben Yisroel (Mr. Milton Goodman’s brother) - 10 Nisan
- Chaim Yosef ben Yehuda Tzvi (Rabbi Shmuel Fogelman’s brother) - 12 Nisan
Devar Torah
True Freedom and the Rebbe’s Pesach Haggadah
We have been discussing the topic of minhagim for the last few weeks. Sometimes we find that people have a relaxed attitude toward minhagim. They may say; “It’s only a minhag” or, “If I missed it, it’s not so terrible.” The Rebbe explains the great virtue of minhagim. He speaks about how it advances the inner development of a Yid in his connection to Hashem and to the Rebbeim.
An example is the degree simcha we have throughout the Yom Tov of Sukkos. One level of simcha is reached when celebrating the Yom Tov itself which is a commandment from the Torah. An even greater level of simcha is celebrated during Simchas Beis Hashueiva. There is no commandment in the Torah for Simchas Beis Hashueiva. Although it is derived from a drash (meaning that it is inferred, but not a direct reference from the Torah), nevertheless it is a greater simcha. An even greater level of simcha is celebrated on Simchas Torah even though it is not a commandment in the Torah or even derived from a drash, but is rather a minhag. The reason for the minhag is because we are completing the reading of the Torah and we want to celebrate by expressing our great joy and gratitude in having received it and that we have the opportunity to begin reading it again. Why is the greatest simcha of all not associated with a mitzvah or even a drash, but rather a minhag? The reason is that a minhag has the power to reveal the inner connection of a Yid in the greatest possible way.
The Rebbe explains the difference of our minhag when it comes to the order of the questions in the Mah Nishtana by the Pesach Seder. In most other Haggadas the first question is about chametz and matza which is a commandment from the Torah. In our Haggadah, the first question is about dipping which is only a minhag which was instituted in order to get the children to wonder and ask questions. In other words, we place the minhag first because of the impact that it has upon the child. This shows our emphasis on the importance of a minhag.
In the year 5748 – 1987, Sukkos was a Hakel year. During Yom Tov and Chol HaMoed the Rebbe held the esrog differently than his normal custom. Normally, the Rebbe only picked up the esrog when he waived it during Hallel. During the rest of Hallel in between the pesukim designated for waving the Rebbe would place the esrog back into the box. On this occasion, the Rebbe held the esrog together with the lulav throughout the entire Hallel.
The Rebbe later explained in a sicha that the Previous Rebbe would only hold the esrog when he waved the lulav during hallel. One might have thought that the only reason the Previous Rebbe only held the esrog at that time was because he wasn’t well. And because he was weak there was a concern that the esrog might get scratched. Nevertheless, since this was done publicly, we do it the way the Rebbe did for hiskashrus, in order to be connected. If we change it, it has an effect.
The Rebbe explained that this year is Hakel which is a year of ingathering of Yidden. Since the four types represent the different types Yidden, therefore he held them all together with the esrog the entire time because of the Hakel year. What happened here? What was the purpose of the Rebbe going into such great detail about such a small change? Because he held it a little longer, for that it was necessary to dedicate part of a sicha to explain? The reason is because we do not change the minhagim because it effects our connection to the Rebbe. A chosid has a sense of wanting to always be connected to the Rebbeim. Therefore, notwithstanding other possible explanations, I do not want to do it any other way. This is the path of a chosid.
When it comes to Pesach we do not eat gebrochs. The source for this minhag is because perhaps there is some unbaked flour within the matza. Nevertheless, on Acharon Shel Pesach we eat gebrochs! The reason is because we saw the Previous Rebbe would take his matzah and eat it with every food at the meal of Acharon Shel Pesach. The Rebbe explains in Likutei Sichos how we are not afraid to do this. Every minhag has a solid foundation. It is not arbitrary.
We need to spend time to read the Rebbe’s Haggadah and to follow it carefully throughout the seder. We also need to differentiate between the minhag for us and a ‘minhag from the house of the Rebbe’ (discussed in the previous article). One example for this is that in the house of the Rebbe, the Rebbe himself was the only one to place a plate under the kaira (the matzos). The Rebbe explains in a note that this only applies to the Rebbe’s house. Privately however in our own homes there should be a plate under the matzos. The plate represents the attribute of malchus and therefore needs to be together with the matzos of the kaira. From this we see that even something we saw openly being done at the Rebbe’s house needs clarification as to whether we need to do it ourselves.
Therefore, all the details that we find in the Siddur and the Haggadah have a source. We see many places in the Haggadah where the Rebbe brings the exact source for the minhag. Our job is to learn about them, know them and care for them. When we learn we need to check into what we are learning. Through this we will impact upon ourselves and our entire families, a sense of what is special and unique about minhagim, and how through them we are connected to I’lana d’chaya, the living tree, to the Rebbeim. This enables us to achieve cheirus amiti, a true sense of freedom on Pesach.
A Kosher and Freilichin Pesach!
(See this month’s HaChodesh magazine for details about the minhagim for Pesach.)
Announcements
- The L'Chaim of Danny Weiss (LA) and Mushka Weiss (Pittsburgh) will take place on Sunday, Nissan 2/March 25, 7:30 pm at 411 N Martel Ave.
- Rabbi Zalman Schmukler would like to notify the community that Kehila changed their meat supplier and no longer has Lubavitch Shochtim.
- The Shul has a web page for members to advertise their goods or services leading up to Pesach. If you want to be featured, please email us your flyer or announcement. Attachments must be in pdf or jpeg format. Note: The shul reserves the right to reject and/or modify any submission for any reason. Click here to see the page.
- Shaarei Tefila is launching a new summer day camp for boys & girls ages 2 ½ - 6 directed by Ms. Simi Raichik. Click here for more details.
- Please say Tehillim for Shmuel Choni ben Leah, Rochel Bas Simcha Chaya, Devorah Miriam bas Sarah and for Rachamim Oscar ben Rochel.
Shabbos Schedule
- Shabbos Candle Lighting: 6:50 pm
- Shiur Chassidus with Rabbi Raichik: 9:00 am
- Last Time To Read Shema: 9:54 am
- Early Minyan Shacharis: 9:30 am
- Shacharis: 10:00 am
- Kol Yakov Yehuda: 10:15 am
- Mesibos Shabbos for Girls: 3:30 pm in Shul
- Mincha: 6:50 pm
- Shabbos Ends: 7:53 pm
Kiddush Sponsors
- Mr. & Mrs. Zalman Roth in honor of their anniversary. May they have many more happy years together.
The kiddush for the early minyan is sponsored by:
- Rabbi & Mrs. Yitzchok Arnold in honor of their anniversary. May they have many more happy years together.
- Rabbi & Mrs. Mendy Greenbaum in honor of their anniversary. May they have many more happy years together.
- Rabbi & Mrs. Yakov Greenbaum for the yahrtzeit of Rabbi Yakov Greenbaum’s mother Rochel bas Yaakov Moshe ob"m. May the neshomo have an aliya.
- Rabbi & Mrs. David Hoch in honor of their anniversary. May they have many more happy years together.
Also in honor of Rabbi Dovid Hoch’s birthday. May he have a shnas hatzlocho begashmiyus ubruchniyus.
Women's Shabbos Shiur & Farbrengen
At the home of Mrs. Sima Zeifman
421 N Poinsettia Pl.
5:30 pm
Speaker: Rabbi Levi Kramer
Mazal Tov To
- Mr. & Mrs. Joel Yachzel on the birth of his grandson.
- Rabbi & Mrs. Simcha Frankel on the birth of their granddaughter Chava Devorah Frankel to Rabbi & Mrs. Manis Frankel.
- Rabbi & Mrs. Mordechai Berger on the birth of their grandson.
Upcoming Birthdays:
- Menachem Mendel Plotkin - 1 Nisan
- Avrohom Eliezer Goldman - 3 Nisan
- Rabbi David Hoch - 3 Nisan
- Mr. Berel Wilhelm - 4 Nisan
Upcoming Anniversaries:
- Rabbi & Mrs. David Hoch - 1 Nisan
- Rabbi & Mrs. Mendy Greenbaum - 2 Nisan
- Mr. & Mrs. Zalman Roth - 2 Nisan
- Rabbi & Mrs. Moishe Kasowitz - 5 Nisan
Upcoming Yahrtzeits
- Yitzchok ben Avrohom (Mr. Shimon Benarroch’s brother) - 1 Nisan
- Rochel bas Yaakov Moshe (Rabbi Yakov Greenbaum’s mother) - 6 Nisan
Devar Torah
More about Minhagim…
Last week we began to quote sichos that explain the source, purpose and greatness of our minhagim. This week we continue by reviewing the history of how the minhagim of the Rebbeim came to be known in our time and their special purpose for our generation.
The process of compiling minhagim began at an Achron shel Pesach fabrengen in 1940. The Previous Rebbe said that a compilation of all the minhagim of the Rebbeim should be created in a way that is practical for everyday use. It should include customs, Chassidic sayings and stories. He said that this can only be accomplished by a person who is well organized and confidant. He needs to have deep seated spiritual integrity, be fundamentally methodical and have a broad and profound mind. When the Rebbe came to America, the Previous Rebbe gave him the job of creating this compilation which is known as the HaYom Yom. It was printed for the first time in 5703-1942,3.
The first print of the Rebbe’s Haggadah shel Pesach, which included a compilation of the minhagim of the Rebbeim for Pesach, was in 1946.
In 5708-1947, on Shabbos Chol HaMoed Sukkos someone asked the Previous Rebbe if the correct custom is to have honey on the table during Chol HaMoed. At that time the Previous Rebbe said that it would be a good idea to compile a complete collection of the minhagim of the Rebbeim. Later that year, when the maamar for Purim was printed for distribution, as an addition, it included a collection of minhagim at the end that the Rebbe compiled. This continued, and finally in 1966 these collections along with Sichos that related to the minhagim were combined to create Sefer HaMinhagim.
At an Achron shel Pesach fabrengen in 1940 the Previous Rebbe discussed the minhag of using a towel when washing each hand three times by netilas yadayim. The reason is to avoid touching the cup with wet hands. He told a story about a Shabbos guest by the Rebbe Rashab. After the Rebbe washed his hands, he offered the guest to wash as well. The guest proceeded to wash exactly the way he had observed the Rebbe washing. While he was washing the Rebbe was watching him intently. Later on, the Previous Rebbe asked his father the Rebbe why he had stared so intently at the guest while he washed. The Rebbe replied that it is a fine thing when a simple person emulates the minhag of a Ben Torah. If a Ben Torah, especially someone involved in Chassidus does so, he needs to be sure that he does so in a sincere and proper way.
In 5740-1980, parshas Titzavah, the Rebbe repeated this story and added that today we see that it has become a custom for everyone to wash three times with a towel. Are we on such a high level? The Rebbe explained that we are like midgets standing on the shoulders of giants. What once were great hidurim, even mehadrin min hamihadrin for a select few has now become the common minhag for everyone.
In Likutei Sichos volume 33 parshas Shlach the Rebbe discusses the proper way to wear tzitzis. There is a difference between the Shulchan Aruch and the Arizal, on whether to wear the tzizis on top or underneath one’s garments. Nevertheless, even according to the one who wears them underneath, the common minhag is to keep the strings on the outside. In 5743 on Shabbos parshas Miketz the Rebbe said that the minhag today is to wear the tzitzis on the outside. Therefore if he does not he is making a statement that he does not want to go in the ways of those that fear Hashem. He said that this is the way of those that fear Hashem and one should not deviate from the minhag.
The Rebbe also discussed that some have at times taken directives from his answers incorrectly. They quote answers that were given to specific individuals and then apply them to anyone in general. They often do not know the question asked and to whom the answer was given. Sometimes the minhag depends on the background of the individual. For example, Sefardim and Ashkenazim differ with regard to naming children after people that are alive. For Sefardim it’s an honor while Ashkenazim are very careful not to so. Since these minhagim differ, the proper way to understand the answer given is to know the context of the specific person being addressed. Also, the answer may be limited to the situation of the person. An example for this would be the difference in minhag in adding a name to a child after the name was given. For Sefardim it’s a shame for the person whom the child is named after, and therefore an addition should be avoided (except for special circumstances). Therefore, any answer given by the Rebbe to an individual depends on the person being spoken to, their place, as well as their situation. Therefore it is important to be careful when applying the Rebbe’s words when directed to an individual to anyone else.
In a fabrengen on Rosh Hashana 5739-1978, the Rebbe spoke of the great merit that this generation has for having received the guidance of the Previous Rebbe who revealed to us these minhagim. The minhagim we received are a preparation for the coming of Moshiach. They give us the strength that we need to fulfill all that is necessary for Moshiach’s arrival. They enable us to do what we need to do, not in a lifeless and lethargic way but in a way that is illuminated with profound insight and grasp that inspires true simcha shel mitzvah.
When we speak about the coming of Moshiach, often we use the expression to be; “Mikabel pnei Moshiach- to receive the countenance of Moshiach”. This also means to receive the penimius of Moshiach. This means something in addition to the removal of the burden of the nations and all the good things that the Rambam mentions that will occur when Moshiach arrives. To be mikabel pnei Moshiach means that we will continue to fulfill and add in our mitzvos until we grasp Hashem our Creator to the greatest measure that a person is able. We will merit receiving Moshiach with our utmost penimius, from the most profound perspective possible. As the Ramban says at the end of Hilchos Teshuva and at the end Mishna Torah that the Neveim and great Chachamim did not lust for Moshiach in order to rule over others or to receive the wealth and physical benefits of the era of Moshiach. Rather their lust was that there should calmness in the world in order have time to serve Hashem and be able to know Hashem in the greatest way possible.
Chassidus was revealed to the world to prepare us for Moshiach by giving us the knowledge of “Da es Elokei Avicha-to know the G-d of our Fathers”. An additional reason the minhagim were revealed to us in this generation is to prepare us to be mikabel pnei Moshiach.
Announcements
- Rabbi Raichik is now finalizing his order for matzoh. If you plan on ordering through the Rabbi, please contact him immediately.
- We are setting up a web page for members to advertise their goods or services leading up to Pesach. If you want to be featured, please email us your flyer or announcement. Attachments must be in pdf or jpeg format. Note: The shul reserves the right to reject and/or modify any submission for any reason. Click here to see the page.
- PSA: Please remember to check the date of your wedding or banquet with the community calendar @ [email protected]
- Please say Tehillim for Shmuel Choni ben Leah, Rochel Bas Simcha Chaya, Devorah Miriam bas Sarah and for Rachamim Oscar ben Rochel.
Shabbos Schedule
- Shabbos Candle Lighting: 6:44 pm
- Shabbos Mevarchim Tehillim: 8:15 am
- Followed by a Shiur Chassidus with Rabbi Raichik
- Tehillim Club: 9:00 am
- Last Time To Read Shema: 9:59 am
- Early Minyan Shacharis: 10:00 am
- Shacharis: 10:15 am
- Kol Yakov Yehuda: 10:30 am
- Mesibos Shabbos for Girls: 3:30 pm in Shul
- Mincha: 6:45 pm
- Shabbos Ends: 7:47 pm
- Molad of Chodesh Nisan: Thursday Adar 28/March 22, 9:33 pm + 2 Chalakim
- Rosh Chodesh Nisan: Shabbos, March 24
Sholom Zochor
Mr. & Mrs. Mordy Gluckowsky
Invite the community to a Sholom Zochor
at the home of Mr. & Mrs. Brian Sroka - 241 S Mansfield Ave.
Kiddush Sponsors
- Rabbi & Mrs. Yisroel Bastomski in honor of their anniversary. May they have many more happy years together.
- Mr. & Mrs. Shimon Benarroch for the yahrtzeit of Mr. Shimon Benarroch’s father Avrohom ben Yosef ob"m. May the neshomo have an aliya.
- The Gaboim of the shul in honor of Shabbos Chazak. May they and the entire community be blessed with kol tuv se’ela.
- Mr. & Mrs. Chaim Lerner in honor of Mrs. Nettie Lerner’s birthday. May she have a shnas hatzlocho begashmiyus ubruchniyus.
- Rabbi & Mrs. Sholom Ber Levin for the yahrtzeit of Rabbi Sholom Ber Levin’s father Aba ben Yoel Halevi ob"m. May the neshomo have an aliya.
- Rabbi & Mrs. Sender Munitz for the yahrtzeit of Mrs. Gittie Munitz’s mother Leah bas Yaakov ob"m. May the neshomo have an aliya.
- Dr. & Mrs. Ze'ev Rav-Noy for the yahrtzeit of Dr. Ze'ev Rav-Noy’s mother Bracha Gittel bas Shaltiel Ze'ev ob"m. May the neshomo have an aliya.
- Rabbi & Mrs. Shmuel Stroll for the yahrtzeit of Mrs. Malka Stroll’s father Gedaliah Chanoch ben Pinchus ob"m. May the neshomo have an aliya.
- Mr. & Mrs. Yitzchok Wiener in honor of Mr. Yitzchok Wiener’s birthday. May he have a shnas hatzlocho begashmiyus ubruchniyus.
The kiddush for the early minyan is sponsored by:
- Mr. & Mrs. Moshe Antian in honor of Mrs. Rochel Antian’s birthday. May she have a shnas hatzlocho begashmiyus ubruchniyus.
- The Gaboim of the Shul in honor of Shabbos Chazak. May they and the entire community be blessed with kol tuv se’ela.
- Mr. & Mrs. Ari Kaufman in honor of Mr. Ari Kaufman’s birthday. May he have a shnas hatzlocho begashmiyus ubruchniyus.
- Mr. & Mrs. Mitch Reichman for the yahrtzeit of Mitch Reichman’s grandmother Rochel bas Meir ob"m. May the neshomo have an aliya.
Mazal Tov To
- Rabbi & Mrs. Shaya Berkowitz on the marriage of their daughter Chaya Mushka to Zalmy Raksin.
- Mr. & Mrs. Mordy Gluckowsky on the birth of a baby boy.
- Rabbi & Mrs. Hertzie Richler on the engagement of their son Mordy to Shaina Simons.
- Rabbi & Mrs. Mendel Dubinsky on the birth of their grandson to Rabbi & Mrs. Lev Cotlar.
Upcoming Birthdays:
- Yakov Chaim Goldman - 24 Adar
- Rabbi Ezra Binyomin Schochet - 24 Adar
- Gedaliah Chanoch Stroll - 24 Adar
- Levi Yitzchok Tsikman - 24 Adar
- Rabbi Mendel Duchman - 25 Adar
- Mr. Ari Kaufman - 25 Adar
- Rabbi Velvel Tsikman - 26 Adar
- Levi Yitzchak Freeman - 26 Adar
- Yosef Yitzchak Meyer - 27 Adar
- Immanuel Mordechai Gutierrez - 27 Adar
- Rabbi Yossi Pinson - 27 Adar
- Dov Ber Burston - 29 Adar
- Mr. Yitzchok Wiener - 29 Adar
Upcoming Anniversaries:
- Rabbi & Mrs. Yitzchok Arnold - 25 Adar
- Rabbi & Mrs. Alon Asefovitz - 25 Adar
- Rabbi & Mrs. Leibel Lipsker - 26 Adar
- Rabbi & Mrs. Yisroel Bastomski - 26 Adar
- Rabbi & Mrs. Shmuel Gurary - 28 Adar
- Rabbi & Mrs. Danny Rotenberg - 28 Adar
- Rabbi & Mrs. Eliyahu Newman - 28 Adar
Upcoming Yahrtzeits
- Mindel bas Nachum (Dr. Sholom Fine’s mother) - 23 Adar
- Avram Shalom ben Moshe (Mrs. Marsha Alperin’s husband) - 24 Adar
- Gedaliah Chanoch ben Pinchus (Mrs. Malka Stroll’s father) - 24 Adar
- Aba ben Yoel HaLevi (Rabbi Sholom Ber Levin’s father) - 26 Adar
- Bracha Gittel bas Shaltiel Ze'ev (Dr. Ze'ev Rav-Noy’s mother) - 27 Adar
- Shterna Soro Dono bas Yosef Cohen (Mr. David Peretz’s Wife) - 27 Adar
- Avrohom ben Yosef (Mr. Shimon Benarroch’s father) - 27 Adar
- Leah bas Yaakov (Mrs. Gittie Munitz’s mother) - 28 Ada
Devar Torah
Why are our Minhagim so important and valuable to our lives?
The following are a few excerpts from sichos about the importance of minhagim and their profound effect on our lives.
In Lubavitch there are different types of minhagim. There are general minhagim that intended for everyone. These include minhagim for weekdays, Shabbos and Yom Tov. There are minhagim that are unique to the house of the Rebbeim. There are also personal minhagim of the Rebbe that we saw, as well as those that the Rebbe did in private. (Sefer HaSichos 5705 pg. 122).
The minhagim of bnei Yisroel are Torah. There are three explanations for what this means. One is that minhagim are an outgrowth of the Torah. Another is that the minhagim bring one closer to the Torah. And a third that a minhag is Torah. All the minhagim were given to Moshe on Har Sinai, just as the entire Torah was revealed to Moshe. In every generation deeper and deeper dimensions of the Torah have been revealed. Each generation has merited revelations of the Torah based upon its particular level. So too, Hashem has directed through which Tzaddik each particular facet of the Torah and minhag is to be revealed. Through this Klal Yisroel receives its guidance (Sefer HaShichos 5701 pg. 128) The Rebbe, the Tzemech Tzedek once said that the Alter Rebbe related to him that the minhagim of the Ba’al Shem Tov are Halacha l'Moshe m'Sinai.
Certain minhagim were established by the Ba’al Shem Tov. He had mesirus nefesh that these minhagim should be implanted in all Jewish homes for all generations. It is with these minhagim that we will go to greet Moshiach Tzidkeinu.
When the Alter Rebbe returned from Mezritch, he said that the minhagim that he received from the Maggid were received by the Maggid from the Ba’al Shem Tov. The Baal Shem Tov received them from the Ba’al HaChai, Achia HaShiloni. These include general minhagim for everyone as well as specific minhagim for the Rabbeim. (Sefer HaShichos 5708 pg. 231)
In 1936, on the 25th of Shevat (Sefer HaShichos 5696 pg. 48) the Previous Rebbe said that “Minhagei Lubavitch are set upon strong foundations. This includes all the minhagim that we have from Rabboseinu Nessienu in every generation. There are minhagei Lubavitch that we: know the reason; don’t know the reason; that only a few from the house of the Rebbeim followed. Most were received from the Alter Rebbe. From those there are two types: those that he received from the Maggid either his own or in the name of the Ba’al Shem Tov; and those from the Alter Rebbe himself.”
The minhagim of the Alter Rebbe are the main aspect and root for the minhagim that we have. They provide the basis upon the minhagim that the Rebbeim enacted in every generation. Most of those minhagim are a branch of the Alter Rebbe’s, while certain ones were specific to the Rebbeim in each generation.
In Sefer HaSichos 5702 (pg. 27) it says that minhagei Lubavitch are not just founded on halacha or hidur mitzvah, but are also dimensions of the spiritual that are important for the soul. The minhagim bring an enlightenment and a spirit of purity to the person and his family that place them on an elevated platform of service to Hashem.
In a sicha from parshas Chukas, the first day of Rosh Chodesh Tammuz 1984, (Hisvaadus 5744 pg. 2077) the Rebbe spoke about a person who said they he saw someone practicing a certain minhag (not Chabad). He thought that since he saw this that it was b'hasgacha protis, perhaps it would be proper for him to follow this minhag as well. Chassidim know that an essential part of observance of minhagim is that we follow them with a tradition. We practice only those minhagim that come directly from the Rebbe. If the Rebbe practices the minhag then you should do it. If it was not passed down from the Rebbe, then although it may be a very beautiful minhag, and we greatly admire it, we would not actually observe it.
To explain, there is a story in the Gemara about hadassim. Reb Acha the son of Rava was careful to take a hadas that had two leaves and the third leaf that was at a distance from the two, not the usual cluster of three leaves. The reason why Reb Acha took that type of hadas was because his Rebbe, Rav Kahana, felt that it was good enough to fulfill the mitzvah. It is important to note that Reb Acha did this as a hidur even though his Rebbe, Rav Kahana did not say that you couldn’t have a cluster of three. All he said was that it was permissible to have a hadas with two leaves and a third leaf that was distant. Nevertheless, Reb Acha was mehader only to take a hadas with two leaves together and the third at a distance. His purpose was to be connected to his Rebbe. He wanted to show that if his Rebbe allowed it, he was careful and only took that one and considered it the best possible way to fulfill the mitzvah. The Rebbe used this story of the Gemara to explain minhagim in many of his letters. This means that even if someone can say otherwise, it is still a bigger hiddur to do the minhag the way your Rebbe does it.
Sholom Zochor
Mr. & Mrs. Yossi Roth
Invite the community to a Sholom Zochor
At the home of Mr. & Mrs. Zalman Roth 136 S Highland Ave.
Announcements
- Click here for the KYY Newsletter.
- The new shipment has arrived at “Black Hatters”. Click here for details.
- The Habibian Bris will iy"h take place Friday, Adar 16, at Yeshiva - 7215 Waring Ave. Shachris - 9:30 am.
- Please say Tehillim for Shmuel Choni ben Leah, Rochel Bas Simcha Chaya, Devorah Miriam bas Sarah and for Rachamim Oscar ben Rochel.
Shabbos Schedule
- Shabbos Candle Lighting: 5:39 pm
- Shiur Chassidus with Rabbi Raichik: 9:00 am
- Last Time To Read Shema: 9:06 am
- Early Minyan Shacharis: 9:30 am
- Shacharis: 10:00 am
- Kol Yakov Yehuda: 10:15 am
- Mesibos Shabbos for Girls: 3:30 pm in Shul
- Mincha: 5:40 pm
- Shabbos Ends: 6:42 pm
- Motzei Shabbos: Move clocks 1 hour forward.
Kiddush Sponsors
- Rabbi & Mrs. Meir Ashkenazi in honor of their anniversary. May they have many more happy years together.
- The Bastomski Family for the yahrtzeit of Avrohom Yitzchok ben Yisroel Bastomski ob"m. May the neshomo have an aliya.
- Mr. & Mrs. Jon Engelson in honor of Mr. Jon Engelson’s birthday. May he have a shnas hatzlocho begashmiyus ubruchniyus.
- Rabbi & Mrs.Sholom Glick in honor of Rabbi Sholom Glick’s birthday. May he have a shnas hatzlocho begashmiyus ubruchniyus.
- Mr. & Mrs. Yehosuah Goldman in honor of their anniversary. May they have many more happy years together.
- Mr. & Mrs. Reuven Eliyahu Horwitz in honor of Mr. Reuven Eliyahu Horwitz’s birthday. May he have a shnas hatzlocho begashmiyus ubruchniyus.
- Mr. & Mrs. Doron Israeli in honor of their son Meir’s birthday. May he have a shnas hatzlocho begashmiyus ubruchniyus.
- Rabbi & Mrs. Avrohom Klyne in honor of their anniversary. May they have many more happy years together.
Also for Rabbi Avrohom Klyne’s birthday. May he have a shnas hatzlocho begashmiyus ubruchniyus.
Also for the yahrtzeit of Rabbi Avrohom Klyne’s father Betzalel ben Chaim Shneur Zalmen ob"m. May the neshomo have an aliya. - Rabbi & Mrs. Leib Lerner in honor of Rabbi Leib Lerner’s birthday. May he have a shnas hatzlocho begashmiyus ubruchniyus.
- Rabbi & Mrs. Yosef Yitzchok Mishulovin in honor of Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Mishulovin’s birthday. May he have a shnas hatzlocho begashmiyus ubruchniyus.
- Rabbi & Mrs. Mottel Polityko in honor of Rabbi Mottel Polityko’s birthday. May he have a shnas hatzlocho begashmiyus ubruchniyus.
Also for the yahrtzeit of Rabbi Mottel Polityko’s mother Chava Maryasha bas Ber ob"m. May the neshomo have an aliya. - Rabbi & Mrs. Mayer Schmukler in honor of their anniversary. May they have many more happy years together. Also in honor of Rabbi Mayer Schmukler’s birthday. May he have a shnas hatzlocho begashmiyus ubruchniyus.
The kiddush for the early minyan is sponsored by:
- Rabbi & Mrs. Dovid Hoch in honor of their son Aryeh Leib’s birthday. May he have a shnas hatzlocho begashmiyus ubruchniyus.
- Rabbi & Mrs. Levi Raichik in honor of their anniversary. May they have many more happy years together.
Shabbos Kalla
Chaya Mushka Berkowitz
Invites all women to her Shabbos Kalla
At the home of Mrs. Etty Bastomski
418 N. Fuller Ave.
4:30 pm
Speaker: Mrs. Chana Rachel Schusterman
Mazal Tov To
- Mr. & Mrs. Yossi Roth on the birth of their son.
- Mr. & Mrs. Michael Zaghi on the birth of their daughter.
- Mr. & Mrs. Asher Habibian on the bris of their son.
Upcoming Birthdays:
- Rabbi Meir Rivkin - 16 Adar
- Levi Raichik - 16 Adar
- Rabbi Leib Lerner - 16 Adar
- Meir Israeli - 17 Adar
- Aryeh Leib Hoch - 17 Adar
- Mr. Zev Oster - 18 Adar
- Mr. Jon Engelson - 18 Adar
- Rabbi Mayer Schmukler - 20 Adar
- Mendel Wolowik - 20 Adar
- Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Mishulovin - 20 Adar
- Mr. Reuven Eliyahu Horwitz - 21 Adar
- Rabbi Avrohom Klyne - 22 Adar
- Rabbi Mottel Polityko - 22 Adar
Upcoming Anniversaries:
- Mr. & Mrs. Yehosuah Goldman - 16 Adar
- Rabbi & Mrs. Mayer Schmukler - 17 Adar
- Mr. & Mrs. Mendel-Hilel Ganzburg - 19 Adar
- Rabbi & Mrs. Levi Raichik - 20 Adar
- Mr. & Mrs. Elozor Plotke - 21 Adar
- Mr. & Mrs. Berel Wilhelm - 21 Adar
- Rabbi & Mrs. Meir Ashkenazi - 22 Adar
- Rabbi & Mrs. Avrohom Klyne - 22 Adar
Upcoming Yahrtzeits
- Avrohom Yitzchok ben Yisroel Bastomski - 16 Adar
- Betzalel ben Chaim Shneur Zalmen (Rabbi Avrohom Klyne’s father) - 19 Adar
- Chava Maryasha bas Ber (Rabbi Mottel Polityko’s mother) - 19 Adar
- Chana bas Yeshaye (Rabbi Shaya Berkowitz’s mother) - 22 Adar
Devar Torah
As we celebrate Purim it brings to mind memories of Purim by the Rebbe in Lubavitch. In Lubavitch, Purim was different than in most places. There was no Purim shpiel. In other places, Purim is celebrated as a time to simply let yourself go and have fun. By the Rebbe, Purim was a time for deep maamorim, a time for sichos infused with Nigleh and Chassidus. What about the fun and enjoyment that so many consider to be part and parcel of the Purim spirit? Some drink a lot to get to the state of ‘ad delo yada’. Others get very involved in dressing up in costumes. The real mitzvah of drinking on Purim is to reach a state where one cannot tell the difference between ‘baruch Mordechai' and 'arur Haman'. If a person really reaches that state, isn’t he missing out on all the simcha of Purim because he doesn’t really understand what is happening anyway? How do we then, celebrate Purim?
There is a story about the Tzemach Tzedek who as a child once asked his Zeide, the Alter Rebbe; Why did the gallows that Haman and his sons were hung upon have to be 50 amos high, weren’t 10 amos enough? That Purim the Alter Rebbe explained that there are 50 gates of understanding. Haman realized that in the regular realm of understanding, from 1 until 49 he could not compete against the Jewish people. He knew that even a poshe yisroel-a Jew that sins has more merit than he. Therefore, his strategy was to go beyond all of them and to compete on the level of 50th gate. The 50th gate is incomparable. It is beyond all measure, where levels do not matter. In such a place where there is no calculation, he felt his lack of virtue was not a deficit and therefore he could compete. This is why he threw a ‘pur,’ a lottery which is beyond logic and reason. This is the reason that this Yom Tov is called Purim, a lottery, beyond that which makes sense. When it fell out on the month that he thought (mistakenly) that was in his favor, he took it as a positive sign that he would be successful.
Haman made a fatal error. He did not realize that our connection to Hashem is not just because we are his children, but because Hashem chooses us. He doesn’t just choose us because of the greatness of our neshama which gives us an advantage (which is reflected in any one of the 49 gates), but a choice that is so essential that it even includes our bodies, not just the neshama. This connection is beyond all logic and is Hashem’s preference for us. Actually, Haman picked the worst possible place to compete with the Jewish people, beyond seichel, because that is where we are the strongest. Therefore, Purim represents our essential connection to Hashem beyond reason. Our L’chaim on Purim is to get out of Yada, our understanding, and to get in touch with the essence, that it is Hashem’s choice in us that will make us victorious. On the level of knowing, we see the virtue of Mordechai, that he is baruch, because he represents the positive, learning the Torah and doing mitzvos. We are disgusted with Haman because he is arur because he represents the antithesis of the Torah and Yiddishkeit. When we go ‘ad dlo yada,’ beyond knowing, then nothing is based on any preferences that we understand and our one and only motivator is that Hashem wants this. It is this and this alone that motivates us. To reach this we need to make l’chaim, we need to get out of our own calculations, logic and preferences, out of all the 49 levels.
So Purim is not the time to just let go, which is to go below the 49 levels, but rather to go above them. For this we need to have a good chassidishe Purim farbrengen. This is because from within the depth of Chassidus we come to the complete and full realization of this difference. The difference between the 49 and the 50th, and what is really possible on Purim. It is not about costumes rather it is about learning about mesiras nefesh. The Previous Rebbe in 1927, centered the entire farbrengen around this point. The essence, in general, is to give ourselves over as a Yid. We express this on Purim by making l’chaim, going to a farbrengen, by having simcha and sharing it with others in a heartfelt way. We give presents to another Yid, because we see this virtue in each other. This is Purim! A Freilichin Purim.
Announcements
- Click here for the KYY Newsletter.
- “A Perfect Setting” has Shalach Manos with delivery available. Click here for more details.
- Hashovas Aveida - Tefillin Missing - If you have recently brought to the Shul geniza a black bag full of Mezuzos, Yarmulkas, and a small Tefillin shel Yad, please can you contact Rabbi Michy Rav-Noy (310.277.3252). They are expensive Mivtzoim Tefillin, he is looking for the Shel Rosh. For a picture of the Shel Yad please click here.
- Please say Tehillim for Shmuel Choni ben Leah, Rochel Bas Simcha Chaya, Devorah Miriam bas Sarah and for Rachamim Oscar ben Rochel.
Parshas Zochor
There is a Torah obligation to hear this parsha.
If one does not hear it on Shabbos,
hearing the reading of the Torah on Purim, before the Megillah
will fulfill this obligation.
Shabbos Schedule
- Shabbos Candle Lighting: 5:33 pm
- Shiur Chassidus with Rabbi Raichik: 9:00 am
- Last Time To Read Shema: 9:11 am
- Early Minyan Shacharis: 9:30 am
- Shacharis: 10:00 am
- Kol Yakov Yehuda: 10:15 am
- Mesibos Shabbos for Girls: 3:30 pm in Shul
- Mincha: 5:30 pm
- Shabbos Ends: 6:36 pm
Kiddush Sponsors
- Mr. & Mrs. Shimon Benarroch for the yahrtzeit of Mr. Shimon Benarroch’s mother Rochel bas Esther ob"m. May the neshomo have an aliya.
Also in honor of Mr. Shimon Benarroch’s birthday. May he have a shnas hatzlocho begashmiyus ubruchniyus. - Rabbi & Mrs. Naftoli Estulin for the yahrtzeit of Rabbi Naftoli Estulin’s father Zalmen Leib ben Yaakov Yitzchok ob"m. May the neshomo have an aliya.
- Mr. & Mrs. Moshe Fishman in honor of Mr. Moshe Fishman’s birthday. May he have a shnas hatzlocho begashmiyus ubruchniyus.
- Mr. & Mrs. Reuven Eliyahu Horwitz in honor of their anniversary. May they have many more happy years together.
- Rabbi & Mrs. Menachem Mendel Pinson in honor of Rabbi Menachem Mendel Pinson’s birthday. May he have a shnas hatzlocho begashmiyus ubruchniyus.
- Rabbi & Mrs. Zalman Schmukler for the yahrtzeit of Mrs. Raizy Schmukler’s father ???Yitzchok Dovber ben Shlomo ob"m. May the neshomo have an aliya.
- Rabbi & Mrs. Yosef Wolowik in honor of their anniversary. May they have many more happy years together.
The kiddush for the early minyan is sponsored by:
- Mr. & Mrs. Moshe Antian in honor of their son Yoav’s birthday. May he have a shnas hatzlocho begashmiyus ubruchniyus.
Sholom Zochor
Rabbi & Mrs. Asher Habibian
Invite the community to a Sholom Zochor
at their home 821 N. Formosa #303
Devar Torah
By Rabbi Shimon RAichik
This week is parshas Zachor. There is a positive commandment to remember what Amalek did to us on our way out of Mitzrayim. We remember this daily in the 6 remembrances at the end of davening. We also fulfill this positive mitzvah once a year by listening to the reading of the parsha about wiping out Amalek on Shabbos parshas Zachor.
How is it possible today to actually fulfill this mitzvah? Long ago Sancheriv rose up and mixed up all nations to the point that we no longer know precisely who Amalek is or where they live. Also, the Torah says that in order to wipe out Amalek we need a King. At this time, do we have a Jewish King (until Moshiach) with which to do this mitzvah? Since we are not able to practically implement this mitzvah, what then is the purpose of constantly remembering our obligation?
The Rebbe explains that just like there is a physical Amalek, so too there is a spiritual Amalek that relates directly to our avodas Hashem. To better understand how this works, let’s take the first description of the physical Amalek; “Asher karcha b’derech-they surprised you on the road”. Chazal explain that “karcha” doesn’t just mean surprise, or happened upon, but also (most importantly) means “kar-cha-cooled you off”. After yetzias Mitzrayim and Krias Yam Suf all the surrounding nations were trembling in fear and awe of Bnei Yisroel. Chazal liken this to the fear of scalding water. Amalek entered this situation with a very “cool” attitude. At his own detriment he jumped into the ‘scaling waters’ and attacked Bnei Yisroel, getting burnt in the process. His point was to show that it was “no big deal” to attack Bnei Yisroel. His goal was cool off the fear and awe that the nations had for Bnei Yisroel.
Each individual needs to use his or her intellect to understand and serve Hashem as best as possible, each person according to their abilities. But that is not enough, we need to direct our intellect into the heart, to utilize it to impact our daily lives. This is where our personal Amalek gets involved. He tries to separate (Am-malak-a nation that separates) between the intellect and its positive effect on the heart. It’s that voice that tells us not to get excited about the Torah we are learning and our davening. Just as it was originally, when we were on our way to receive the Torah in a way of ‘naaaseh v’nishma’ without any conditions, Amalek appeared to thwart that intention. He wants us to serve Hashem and receive his Torah only with the intellect and not the heart (with kabbolos ohl). Rather, he works tirelessly to cool us off with the dictates of cold objective logic, and a cynical attitude.
This is the Amalek we face each and every day in one form or another. We need to refresh our avodas Hashem with this remembrance daily and keep our focus on Torah and mitzvos, and in this way we do our part to fulfill the mitzvah of wiping out Amalek.
There are numerous maamarim that address the many forms that Amalek appears in our avodas Hashem. Some forms are very subtle and refined while others open and blunt. At times this Amalek asks the chosid; “Why are you so mihadar in that mitzvah, is it really necessary? It’s more than enough for you (or, someone of your stature) to follow Shulchan Aruch”. Once, a chosid came to visit the Previous Rebbe after parshas Zachor. The Rebbe told him that if he had been there for parshas Zachor he would had added another level of explanation (a refined level) about Amalek in the maamar for him.
In 1957, and 1967 the Rebbe spoke about a 1936 Purim fabrengen of the Previous Rebbe. At That fabrengen the Previous Rebbe quoted a maamar from the Alter Rebbe that Amalek is gematria (numeric value) safek. He explained that the way that Amalek cools off a person in his avodas Hashem is by creating doubt in his or her thinking. The essential doubt that Amalek is attempting to create is to doubt the value and realness of our avodas Hashem. He wants a Yid to doubt and question whether or not his or her avodah is real, purposeful or relavant right now. The Rebbe at the fabrengen in 1957 dedicated a second maamar to this subject.
A person should not allow themselves to feel upset or question that fact that his avodah is important. Rather, he or she needs to realize that since we are connected to Hashem and to Moshe Rabbenu, we are given the power to overcome and eradicate Amalek in our daily lives. And then for all Bnei Yisroel there will be light etc.. “L’Yahudim haisa ohrah, v’simcha, v’saason, v’yikar”
Women's Shabbos Shiur & Farbrengen
At the home of Mrs. Miriam Feiner
305 S McCadden Pl.
At 4:30 pm
Speaker: Rabbi Yisroel Zev Feiner
Mazal Tov To
- Rabbi & Mrs. Shaya Eichenblatt on the birth of their grandson.
- Rabbi & Mrs. Simcha Frankel on the birth of their grandson.
- Rabbi & Mrs. Asher Habibian on the birth of their son.
- Rabbi & Mrs. Yosef Shagalov on the engagement of their daughter Chaya Sara to Levi Ceitlin.
- Mr. & Mrs. Mailaich Weiss on the engagement of their son Danny to Mushka Weiss.
Upcoming Birthdays:
- Menachem Mendel Freeman - 9 Adar
- Mr. Moshe Fishman - 9 Adar
- Rabbi Menachem Mendel Pinson - 12 Adar
- Rabbi Chaim Avrahom Mentz - 12 Adar
- Rabbi Shmuel Novack - 13 Adar
- Mr. Shimon Benarroch - 13 Adar
- Dovid Raigorodsky - 15 Adar
- Chaim Yehuda Leib Perl - 15 Adar
Upcoming Anniversaries:
- Mr. & Mrs. Reuven Eliyahu Horwitz - 9 Adar
- Mr. & Mrs. Yosef Yitzchok Mishulovin - 11 Adar
- Mr. & Mrs. Zechariah Davidson - 12 Adar
- Rabbi & Mrs. Yosef Wolowik - 15 Adar
Upcoming Yahrtzeits
- Sara Rochel bas Mordechai Shlomo Schochet - 10 Adar
- Tzivya bas Moshe Hersh (Mrs. Frances Goodman’s mother) - 10 Adar
- Mordechai ben Abraham (Mrs. Ester Gutierrez’s grandfather) - 11 Adar
- Yitzchok Dovber ben Shlomo (Rabbi Zalmen Schmukler’s stepfather) - 12 Adar
- Dov Reuven ben Dovid Helevi (Mr. Yaakov Michoel Ginsburg’s father) - 14 Adar
- Zalmen Leib ben Yaakov Yitzchok (Rabbi Naftoli Estulin’s father) - 15 Adar
- Rochel bas Esther (Mr. Shimon Benarroch’s mother) - 15 Adar