Anash and Temimim of Kfar Chabad

אנ"ש והתמימים דכפר חב"ד

Anash and Temimim of Kfar Chabad (Chabad Community Members and Yeshiva Students of Kfar Chabad)

Anash and Temimim of Kfar Chabad refers to the Chabad-Lubavitch community members ("Anash" – an acronym for "Anshei Shlomeinu," our people) and yeshiva students ("Temimim") residing in the village of Kfar Chabad, located in the Land of Israel. The community is known for its dedication to Chassidic life and the teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe.

Correspondence with the Rebbe

The Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, addressed the Anash and Temimim of Kfar Chabad in a letter dated 6 Tishrei, 5715 (1954), expressing concern about a reported custom among a significant portion of the community. The Rebbe noted that many were in the habit of eating the second Shabbos meal away from home on Shabbos Mevorchim (the Shabbos preceding the new month), returning home only late in the day or after evening prayers.

The Rebbe discussed the balance between avoiding both overly "worldly" customs and extreme ascetic practices as regular conduct. He emphasized that while there are times when one must go beyond their usual boundaries in spiritual service, such conduct—described as serving G-d "with all your might" and self-sacrifice—should not become a permanent, fixed practice. This idea, he noted, is explained in many places in Chassidic teachings.

Regarding the specific issue, the Rebbe advised that if his opinion would be followed, the farbrengen (Chassidic gathering) on Shabbos Mevorchim should be arranged so that its spiritual light and inspiration would extend into each participant's home, beginning on Shabbos itself. He suggested that even during the short winter Shabbos days, the farbrengen should be scheduled or divided in a way that allows everyone to eat the Shabbos meal at home and to share the inspiration of Shabbos Mevorchim with their families.

The Rebbe also expressed hope that this approach would inspire the women and girls of the community to arrange their own gatherings on Shabbos Mevorchim or on Motzaei Shabbos (Saturday night).

Tone and Blessings

The Rebbe's letter is characterized by a tone of guidance and encouragement, blending practical advice with spiritual insight. He concluded with heartfelt blessings to each individual for a good and sweet year, both spiritually and materially, in visible and revealed good.

Shiurim in this topic
2968. Proper Shabbos Meal Conduct and Farbrengen Balance הנהגה נכונה בסעודת שבת ואיזון התוועדות