Greenwald, Mordechai Zvi

גרינוואלד, מרדכי צבי

Mordechai Zvi Greenwald (Chabad Educator and Communal Activist)

Mordechai Zvi Greenwald was a Chassid and educator active in communal and Torah education work, particularly associated with Chabad-Lubavitch institutions. His correspondence with the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, reflects his involvement in educational leadership, outreach, and personal guidance within the Chabad community.

Correspondence with the Rebbe

The letters exchanged between Rabbi Greenwald and the Lubavitcher Rebbe reveal a warm and respectful relationship, focused on matters of education, communal responsibility, and personal guidance. The Rebbe expresses appreciation for Rabbi Greenwald’s reports about his educational activities, particularly his work with students and his visits to various Jewish settlements. The Rebbe encourages him to emphasize the practical application of Torah study, especially the daily laws essential for Jewish life, and suggests innovative methods such as special tests and prizes to ensure students’ proficiency.

In addressing challenges, the Rebbe provides nuanced advice. For example, when Rabbi Greenwald sought guidance regarding an individual whose presence might negatively affect others, the Rebbe balanced communal welfare with compassion for the individual, recommending both careful consideration and seeking expert medical advice. The Rebbe also underscores the importance of maintaining connections with students during school breaks, suggesting that informal interactions can be especially effective in imparting Torah values.

Educational and Communal Themes

A recurring theme in the Rebbe’s letters is the primacy of action—“the deed is the main thing”—and the necessity of studying practical halachah for daily living. The Rebbe encourages Rabbi Greenwald to continue his outreach and educational efforts, both through personal visits and ongoing correspondence, highlighting that even seemingly small actions can have significant spiritual impact. The Rebbe also references the importance of participating in communal farbrengens and resolutions, such as those connected to Yud Tes Kislev, and expresses blessings for Rabbi Greenwald’s continued success, health, and livelihood.

Overall, the correspondence demonstrates the Rebbe’s trust in Rabbi Greenwald’s leadership and his ongoing encouragement to advance Jewish education and communal life with sensitivity, innovation, and dedication.

Shiurim in this topic
3613. Public Welfare vs. Individual Benefit in Community Harm Cases טובת הרבים מול תועלת היחיד במקרים של נזק לקהילה
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1814. Explain to him that he had the privilege of being with the Rebbe and heard his teachings, etc. אשר זכה להיות אצל כ"ק מו"ח אדמו"ר זצוקללה"ה נבג"מ זי"ע, בוויען, שמע מאמרים וכו' ועליו להסביר
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3158. Tests and Prizes to Ensure Mastery of Laws in Daily Life בחינות ופרסים להבטחת בקיאות בהלכות בחיי היום יום
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