CHUKAS: Realizing the Rebbe's dream

From 1843 to 2007... 

In the year 1843 the Czarist government put tremendous pressure on the Rabbinical Conference to radically alter the style and mode of Jewish Education in their communities. They envisioned a modernized and secular curriculum that would augment their hope of the next generation that would assimilate within society discarding the values of Torah Judaism. 

 The Tzemach Tzedek, the third Lubavitcher Rebbe at that time, courageously stood up to them and despite the real risk and danger to his life, he succeeded in circumventing their plan. 

One of the Rabbinical Leaders at the conference challenged him with unmasked surprise "how could you put your life in danger, leaving your Chassidim without a Rebbe?" 

Without flinching the Tzemach Tzedek replied unequivically "the Chassidim with their love for one another will continue until the coming of Moshiach!" 

In 2007, last week, the words of the Tzemach Tzedek have been echoing in my ears... together, a band of brothers, we studied and we prayed, we laughed and we cried, we spoke (and maybe even got a friendly chide) and through it all the air was rich with love and affection... 

Gimmel Tammuz marked thirteen years after his passing, and we continue to search for a deeper appreciation of the Rebbe's Torah wisdom and vision for the Jewish people.  

Close to 50,000 men, women, and children, visited the Ohel that day. 

Had I attempted to undertake that on my own, I doubt I would have seen any success. 

Together with my beloved friends, colleagues and older mentors, I thank Hashem for the opportunity to have spent this period as we aim to realize the Rebbe's dream of a world perfected and redeemed.  

Rabbi Chaim
ChabadTexas.org Editor

P.S. For a collection of articles on Gimmel Tammuz in the world media click here.