Chabad Leader Wept During Simchat Torah Celebration
Translated & summarized from Kikar HaShabbat by baba
The story in 4 lines · by baba
- Chabad Rebbe cried during Simchat Torah celebration in 1986.
- Tears were prompted by Rashi's commentary on Torah's end.
- The event led to reflections on Jewish identity and Torah.
- Simchat Torah events at Nova site will proceed as planned.
During a Simchat Torah gathering in the Hebrew year 5747 (1986), the Chabad Rebbe reportedly broke down in tears while discussing the final verse of the Torah. The Rebbe elaborated with great emotion for an extended period on the motivations behind Moses' actions.
Rabbi Farkash revisited this unforgettable gathering, posing several questions: Why does the Torah conclude with the breaking of the tablets? Why was Moses willing to break something he valued above all else? What is the meaning of the Sages' statement that "Israel preceded the Torah"? How can a Jew not only rejoice with the Torah but also bring joy to it? And why do people dance with a closed Torah scroll on Simchat Torah?
The article suggests that insights from Rashi, Midrash, and Chassidic teachings reveal a deep understanding of every Jew's merit, Moses' love for the Jewish people, and the inner secret of Simchat Torah. It also briefly mentions that Simchat Torah events at the Nova site will proceed as planned, contrary to some rumors.
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