1. The Challenge to Moshe Rabbeinu’s Leadership
The central theme of this week’s parsha—Torah portion—is Moshe Rabbeinu and the challenges he faced, particularly from Keurech. Keurech was not just any individual; he was a talmid chacham—a Torah scholar—as well as a wealthy and distinguished member of the community. Despite his stature, Keurech allowed jealousy, arrogance, and pettiness to drive him to incite others against Moshe Rabbeinu. His challenge was not rooted in genuine concern for the community but in personal ambition and small-mindedness. Ultimately, the episode underscores the truth that “Moshe emes v’toyrasi emes”—Moshe is true and his Torah is true. Hashem repeatedly demonstrated that Moshe was the authentic leader of klal Yisrael—the Jewish people—and that his teachings were divinely ordained.
2. The Rebbe’s Arrival in America: Chov Ches Sivan
Today also marks the 28th day of Sivan, a significant date in recent Jewish history. On this day, the Rebbe arrived in the United States for the first time, joining his father-in-law, the previous Lubavitcher Rebbe. Together, they began a partnership that would transform not only American Jewry but also Jewish life around the world. Under their leadership, Yiddishkeit—Jewish life and observance—began to flourish in places previously unimaginable. Communities were revitalized and new centers of Torah and mitzvos sprang up across continents.
This day is celebrated as one of gratitude to Hashem for miraculously saving the Rebbe from imminent danger during World War II. The Rebbe’s journey took him from Berlin to France, where he had to move frequently due to changing political circumstances under the Vichy government. Eventually, he made his way to Portugal and boarded what turned out to be the last boat able to leave Europe safely before the war closed off such escapes. The ship was even fired upon multiple times, highlighting just how miraculous his survival truly was.
3. The Global Impact of the Rebbe’s Rescue
The celebration of Chov Ches Sivan is not merely about one individual’s physical salvation but about what that salvation meant for world Jewry. The Rebbe’s arrival in America led to sweeping changes whose effects are still felt today. Through his leadership and vision, millions of Jews were inspired and empowered to strengthen their connection with Hashem and with each other.
Just as we see how destructive forces can cause immense harm in an instant—such as terrorists destroying buildings or taking lives—so too can one act of divine kindness bring about immeasurable good. The miracle of saving the Rebbe did not just rescue one person; it built “millions of twin towers,” meaning it established countless strongholds of faith and Jewish continuity throughout the world.
4. Continuing Inspiration: From Chov Ches Sivan to Gimel Tammuz
This period is especially significant as it leads up to Shabbos Gimel Tammuz, which marks the yahrzeit—anniversary of passing—of the Rebbe. It is a time when we reflect on all that has been accomplished through his leadership and on how much we miss his physical presence among us.
Even though we await Mashiach—the ultimate redemption—and long for reunion with those who have passed on, we recognize that the energy and momentum instilled by the Rebbe continue unabated. His influence empowers chassidim, shluchim—his emissaries—and all Jews worldwide to persevere through challenges such as terrorism and other hardships facing our people today.
5. Faith Amidst Tragedy: Eli Wiesel’s Encounter with the Rebbe
Recently, Eli Wiesel passed away—a man who held deep respect for the Rebbe and attended many Chabad events over his lifetime. There is a well-known story where Wiesel asked the Rebbe how he could maintain faith in God after witnessing such horrors as the Holocaust. The Rebbe responded profoundly: “How could you expect me to believe in man after such a Holocaust?” In other words, while human beings may fail us tragically, our faith in Hashem remains our only true anchor.
6. Enduring Legacy and Hope for Redemption
As we mark Chov Ches Sivan and approach Gimel Tammuz, we draw strength from knowing that although we may feel separated from our leaders physically, their spiritual presence continues to inspire us daily. We pray that this energy will sustain us until Mashiach comes speedily in our days.
Shabbat Shalom.