Our redemption and the redemption of our souls

גאולתנו ופדות נפשנו

Geulatenu u'Pedut Nafshenu ("our redemption and the salvation of our soul") is a phrase that holds special significance in Chassidic tradition, particularly in relation to Yud-Tes Kislev, the 19th of Kislev. This day marks the liberation of the Alter Rebbe, Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi, the founder of Chabad Chassidism, from imprisonment in Tsarist Russia in 1798.

The release of the Alter Rebbe is viewed not only as a personal salvation but as a pivotal moment for the Chassidic movement and its teachings. His liberation is seen as a divine affirmation of the spreading of Chassidic philosophy and the deep, mystical aspects of Torah. Thus, Yud-Tes Kislev is celebrated as the "Rosh Hashanah of Chassidus," symbolizing the beginning of a new era in which the teachings of Chassidus could be disseminated more freely and reach greater numbers of people.

The phrase "Geulatenu u'Pedut Nafshenu" embodies both the physical release of the Alter Rebbe from prison and the spiritual liberation that came with it—empowering Chassidim to deepen their study, strengthen their faith, and fulfill their spiritual mission with renewed vigor.