Rabbi Dov Lando Surprises Nadvorna Yeshiva Instructors with Hasidic Anecdote on 'Baba Kama' Acronym

This week, Rabbi Dov Lando, head of a prominent yeshiva, hosted students from the Nadvorna Hasidic yeshiva 'Kedushat Mordechai' at his home. The students came to clarify complex issues in the laws of selecting (borer) on Shabbat, which had challenged them during their studies. For over an hour, they engaged in detailed halachic discussions with Rabbi Lando, focusing on practical applications of the laws.

The real surprise came at the end of the visit. After concluding their legal deliberations, Rabbi Lando inquired about the family background of one of the instructors present. Upon learning that the instructor was a descendant of the Baal Shem Tov, the founder of Hasidism, Rabbi Lando pressed for specifics, asking whether the lineage was through a son or daughter. The instructor confirmed his descent was through the Baal Shem Tov’s daughter, Rebbetzin Adel, and from her son, Rabbi Baruch of Mezhibuzh.

To the amazement of those present, Rabbi Lando then shared an old Hasidic saying on the spot, explaining that the term 'Baba Kama' is an acronym standing for 'Baruch Ben Adel Kedosh MeRechem Amo' (Baruch, son of Adel, holy from the womb of his people). This anecdote delighted the attendees and highlighted the deep intertwining of halachic study and Hasidic heritage in their learning environment.