Dabruskin - Yechiel Michl

דברוסקין - יחיאל מיכל

Rabbi Yechiel Michl Dabruskin (Chabad Rabbi and Community Leader, Haifa)

Rabbi Yechiel Michl Dabruskin was a prominent Chabad rabbi and communal activist, primarily associated with the city of Haifa, Israel. His correspondence with the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, reflects his active role in Torah education, communal leadership, and the advancement of Chassidic life and observance in his community.

Correspondence with the Rebbe

The letters between Rabbi Dabruskin and the Rebbe span a range of communal, halachic, and educational topics. The Rebbe addresses Rabbi Dabruskin with titles denoting respect for his Torah scholarship and Chassidic standing, and responds to his reports and questions with warmth and detailed guidance.

Key themes in their correspondence include:

1. Torah Study and Public Learning: The Rebbe expresses pleasure at Rabbi Dabruskin's efforts to organize public Torah study sessions, especially the division of the Talmud among participants on the yahrzeit of the Alter Rebbe. The Rebbe encourages the continuation and expansion of such study, emphasizing the importance of learning practical halachot relevant to daily life, particularly in a generation with limited time for study. He advises beginning with the most common and applicable laws, and making concrete resolutions in Torah, avodah (service), and gemilut chasadim (acts of kindness), especially around significant Chassidic dates such as Yud-Tes Kislev.

2. Halachic Guidance: Rabbi Dabruskin sought the Rebbe's opinion on complex halachic matters, such as the observance of Yom Tov Sheni by visitors to and from Eretz Yisrael. The Rebbe provides detailed halachic analysis, referencing Talmudic sources and the rulings of the Alter Rebbe in his Shulchan Aruch, and clarifies the proper practice based on the directives of his father-in-law, the Previous Rebbe. The Rebbe also addresses questions on liturgical customs, such as the recitation of "Amen" in Birkat Hamazon and the formulation of certain blessings.

3. Mikvah Construction and Standards: A recurring topic is the construction and repair of mikvaot (ritual baths) in accordance with the high standards set by the Rebbe Rashab. The Rebbe insists on adhering strictly to established Chabad practices, cautioning against making even minor modifications due to the complexity of the laws and the importance of maintaining communal standards. He expresses confidence that with proper effort, the repairs can be completed according to the accepted Chabad guidelines.

4. Community Leadership and Blessings: The Rebbe acknowledges Rabbi Dabruskin's leadership in his synagogue and broader community, offering blessings for success, health, and spiritual growth. He encourages the spread of Chassidus and the strengthening of Torah observance, and marks significant milestones such as Rabbi Dabruskin's move to a new residence with traditional blessings for increased fortune and success.

Tone and Relationship

The tone of the correspondence is warm, respectful, and encouraging. The Rebbe treats Rabbi Dabruskin as a trusted leader and partner in communal and spiritual endeavors, providing both practical advice and spiritual encouragement. The letters reflect a relationship of mutual respect, with the Rebbe guiding and supporting Rabbi Dabruskin's efforts to strengthen Torah and Chassidic life in his community.

Shiurim in this topic

2029. Yom Tov Observance for Travelers and the Previous Rebbe's Ruling שמירת יום טוב לנוסעים והוראת כ"ק מו"ח אדמו"ר

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2089. Yom Tov Sheni for Those Moving to Eretz Yisrael, Amen in Birkat Hamazon, and Blessing Shepatarani יום טוב שני לאלו העוברים לארץ ישראל, אמן בברכת המזון, וברכת שפטרני

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2135. Changing Details in Mikveh Repairs and Following the Rebbe Rashab's Method שינוי פרטים בתיקון מקוה ולקיים את סדר כ"ק אדמו"ר מוהרש"ב

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3106. On Public Torah Study and the Importance of Practical Halachah על לימוד תורה ברבים וחשיבות הלכה למעשה

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3786. Following the Rebbe Rashab's Mikvah Instructions קיום הוראות כ"ק אדמו"ר מוהרש"ב בעניני מקוה

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6780. Encouragement to Assist Romanian Immigrants Despite Personal Challenges עידוד לסייע לעולי רומיניא למרות אתגרים אישיים

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