Shalom Aleichem. By Divine Providence we are learning Chapter 221, which discusses preparation for the festival of Pesach. Here the Rebbe speaks about the importance of ensuring that people have Shmura matza, specifically the round, hand-baked Shmura matzos, especially for the Sedarim.
The Rebbe brings that there was once a custom that the Rabbanim would supply their communities with matzos—either six matzos, three for each Seder, or at least two matzos, one for each Seder. Aside from the practical benefit, this also served as a source of income for the Rav, similar to other communal customs such as selling chametz or providing a lulav and esrog.
However, the Rebbe explains that the main reason was because of the many detailed halachos involved in the mitzvah of matzah. While eating matzah throughout Pesach relates to avoiding chametz, there is a unique mitzvah to eat matzah on the night of the Seder—the first night, and in Chutz La’aretz also the second night. Because of the complexity of these laws, Rabbanim ensured that people received matzos that were properly prepared according to all halachic requirements.
The Rebbe writes that if he had the ability, he would instruct that this custom be reinstated. Furthermore, he expands this responsibility beyond Rabbanim, stating that any community leader or individual with influence should ensure that others receive Shmura matza—specifically handmade, round matzos—so that hundreds and thousands of Jews can properly fulfill the mitzvah.
Today, Baruch Hashem, Shmura matza is widely available, even in supermarkets. Although it can be more expensive, this accessibility is in many ways a result of the Rebbe’s call decades ago to spread this mitzvah and make these matzos available to all.
The Rebbe also emphasizes that at public Sedarim, special care must be taken to provide participants with proper Shmura matza. He cites the Zohar that matzah is both “Meichla Deheimenusa,” the food of faith, and “Meichla De’asvasa,” the food of healing. Faith is the foundation of all mitzvos, and through properly fulfilling this mitzvah, one draws down blessing in all areas.
Additionally, the Rebbe notes the custom not to eat matzah within thirty days before Pesach, referring to matzah that is fit for fulfilling the mitzvah.
Another point discussed is the custom regarding where one spends Pesach. The Rebbe writes that it is a longstanding Jewish custom for families to be together during Pesach, especially under the guidance of the head of the household. In response to those who wished to travel—even to be with the Rebbe—the Rebbe advised remaining at home.
He further explains that it is difficult to maintain proper Pesach standards outside of one’s home environment. While some individuals had special Pesach residences, the Rebbe notes that he did not see such a practice among the Rebbeim.
Summary
The Rebbe stresses the importance of providing every Jew with proper Shmura matza for the Seder, as it brings faith and healing. He calls on leaders to spread this mitzvah widely and emphasizes that true Pesach observance is best maintained within the home, with family unity.
Rabbi’s and community leaders to see that people in their communities should use Handmade Shmurah Matzah.
Not to eat Matzah 30 days before Pesach.
Rebbe says Passover the family should celebrate Passover together at home.לאר