Cohen - Rafael Nachman

הכהן - רפאל נחמן

Rafael Nachman HaKohen (Chassidic Scholar and Kohen)

Rafael Nachman HaKohen was a Chassidic scholar and Kohen who corresponded with the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, regarding matters of Jewish law and spiritual practice, particularly those relating to the priestly blessing (Birkat Kohanim).

Correspondence with the Rebbe

The correspondence between Rafael Nachman HaKohen and the Rebbe, as reflected in a letter dated 28 Tishrei 5712 (1951), centers on questions of intention and practice during Birkat Kohanim. The Rebbe addresses several halachic and spiritual queries raised by Rabbi HaKohen, including whether it is appropriate to have in mind individuals who have passed away during the priestly blessing. The Rebbe responds that it does not seem appropriate to direct Birkat Kohanim toward the deceased, distinguishing this from reciting Tehillim (Psalms) or verses at the end of the Shemoneh Esreh, where such intentions depend on the nature of the connection and heartfelt feeling.

The Rebbe also provides specific verses suitable for these prayers and requests that Rabbi HaKohen share the intentions in Birkat Kohanim that he had received from the previous Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn. The tone of the letter is warm and appreciative, with the Rebbe expressing gratitude for being included in Rabbi HaKohen's Birkat Kohanim and invoking the teaching that "one who gives a gift to his friend must inform him." The Rebbe concludes with blessings for health and nachas for Rabbi HaKohen and his family.

Shiurim in this topic

4331. Encouragement to Inspire Others and the Power of Charity in Chassidus עידוד לעודד אחרים וכוח הצדקה בחסידות

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1639. Moving to a New Home, Yeshiva Growth, and Secular Studies מעבר לדירה חדשה, צמיחת הישיבה, ולימודי חול

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1231. Kohen’s Blessings and Their Limits for the Deceased ברכת כהן והגבלותיה לגבי הנפטרים

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2163. Request for Health Updates and Clarification on Shdei Chemed's Biography בקשה לעדכונים על מצב הבריאות והבהרה על ביוגרפיה של שדי חמד

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2861. Shavuos All-Night Vigil, Rashab's Custom, and Guidance on Prayer After Sleep ההתעוררות כל הלילה בשבועות, מנהגו של הרש"ב, והדרכה על תפילה לאחר שינה

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3225. Proper Conduct of the Raffle for Plane Fare to Visit the Rebbe הנהגה נכונה של ההגרלה על דמי הטיסה לביקור אצל הרבי