Rabbi Endures Public Insults, Promises Surprising Relief to Three Single Men
A remarkable story shared this week by Rabbi Avraham Yeshayahu Kobalsky says that a public humiliation of the Strupkov Rebbe turned into an extraordinary promise of salvation for three older unmarried men. Kobalsky, who said he witnessed the incident firsthand, described it as an example of the Talmudic ideal of those “who are insulted and do not insult in return.”
The episode took place about six months ago at a Shabbat sheva berakhot celebration for the Rebbe’s granddaughter, held in Bnot Yerushalayim Hall with many Hasidim present. During the meal, a distressed man approached the Rebbe’s table and asked for a blessing. The Rebbe received him warmly and blessed him generously. But immediately afterward, the man unleashed harsh abuse and profanity against the Rebbe in front of everyone.
The crowd was stunned, and the Hasidim wanted to expel the man immediately. Instead, the Rebbe raised his hand and ordered them not to touch him. He remained silent and accepted the insult without responding. Kobalsky said that at that moment, the Rebbe used the occasion of being shamed to bless three older unmarried men in the room, promising that because of those minutes of humiliation they would soon find their matches, in an extraordinary, supernatural way.
This week, about half a year later, the first sign of that promise came true. One of the three men became engaged, prompting excitement in the community. Kobalsky called it an open miracle and a striking proof, in his words, of the power of those who are insulted and do not retaliate to “break through the heavens” and bring salvation.
