Rabbi Chaim Menachem Shlomo Druck (1920 – 8th of Adar, 1983) was a prominent Chassidic scholar, a halachic authority, and a close disciple of Rabbi Isser Zalman Meltzer. He was deeply connected to the Chabad movement and regularly prayed at the Chabad synagogue "Ohel Yitzchak" in the Mea Shearim neighborhood of Jerusalem.

Early Life

Rabbi Druck was born in 1920 in Jerusalem to his father, R’ Binyamin Druck, who was close to the Rebbe Rayatz (the sixth Lubavitcher Rebbe), and his mother, Mrs. Bat Sheva. He was orphaned at a young age and was raised by his grandfather.

Even in his youth, he was recognized for his brilliance in Torah study. He studied at the "Etz Chaim" Yeshiva in Jerusalem under the guidance of the renowned Rabbi Isser Zalman Meltzer and was considered one of his distinguished students.

Scholarly Contributions

In 1956, Rabbi Druck published his halachic work Orot Chaim, which delves into the intricacies of the laws of bein hashmashot (twilight). The book received enthusiastic endorsements from leading Torah scholars and established a special connection with the Lubavitcher Rebbe, who offered him guidance and encouragement.

Connection to Chabad

After his marriage to Mrs. Batya Freida, daughter of R’ Moshe Aharon Golomb, he settled in Mea Shearim. He began attending the Chabad synagogue "Ohel Yitzchak," where he grew deeply attached to the teachings of Chabad and became a devoted follower of the Lubavitcher Rebbe.

Rabbi Druck maintained regular correspondence with the Rebbe and had the privilege of visiting him on the 19th of Kislev, 1981. During this visit, he held personal conversations with the Rebbe amidst the farbrengen (Chassidic gathering).

Educational Activities

Rabbi Druck served as a teacher and halachic instructor in several prominent institutions in Jerusalem, including the "Etz Chaim" Yeshiva and "Beit Gavul." In his later years, he taught halacha at the "Ze’ev Dov" Kollel, founded by Rabbi Avraham Michael Halperin, Rabbi of the French Hill neighborhood in Jerusalem.

Passing and Legacy

Rabbi Druck passed away on the 8th of Adar, 1983, at the age of 60. In his memory, the "Orot Chaim" Kollel was established in the Ramot neighborhood of Jerusalem, currently led by his son, R’ Yosef Druck.

His Influence

Rabbi Druck left behind a legacy of Torah scholarship and Chassidic devotion. His family continues to walk in his path as devoted Chabad Chassidim, and his teachings and writings remain influential to this day.

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