Shiurim in this topic
Rabbi Shmuel Yalov was a rabbinic figure in Syracuse, New York, who corresponded with the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, on matters of Jewish law and tradition.
In a letter dated 3rd of Teves, 5712 (1951), the Lubavitcher Rebbe responded to a halachic inquiry from Rabbi Yalov regarding the source and proper practice of assigning names to newborn sons and daughters—specifically, whether this responsibility belongs to the father or the mother. Rabbi Yalov referenced various Scriptural examples to support both possibilities.
The Rebbe’s reply was detailed and analytical. He explained that it is not possible to derive a definitive rule from the Scriptural precedents, as both fathers and mothers are found naming children in different contexts. The Rebbe cited examples from the Torah and Prophets, noting that sometimes the father, sometimes the mother, sometimes both, and occasionally even others, gave names. He referenced the unique prophetic status of the Matriarchs as discussed by the Sages, and brought sources from Bereishis Rabbah, Likkutei Torah, and other classical works.
The Rebbe further emphasized the spiritual significance and responsibility involved in naming a child, referencing Chassidic and Kabbalistic sources that describe the name as a conduit for the soul’s vitality. He also discussed various customs and opinions among the early commentators regarding the order and assignment of naming rights between parents, concluding with practical guidance for cases where there is no established custom.
This correspondence demonstrates the Rebbe’s scholarly engagement with rabbinic colleagues, his attention to both halachic detail and spiritual meaning, and his respectful and thorough approach to questions of Jewish practice.