Shiurim in this topic
Pesach Segal is addressed in a letter from the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, upon the occasion of his upcoming Bar Mitzvah. The Rebbe refers to him as "the Avrech Mr. Pesach," indicating a young man about to reach the age of mitzvah-obligation, and offers him blessings and Torah insights appropriate to this significant milestone.
The Rebbe's letter to Pesach Segal is written in honor of his Bar Mitzvah, which was to take place on the 5th of Iyar. The Rebbe extends heartfelt blessings that Pesach should become G-d-fearing, a chassid, a scholar, and diligent in Torah study with awe of Heaven. The tone is warm and encouraging, reflecting the Rebbe's care for the spiritual growth of young Jews at this pivotal stage in their lives.
In a detailed postscript, the Rebbe shares a learned discussion about the source for the halachic status of Bar Mitzvah at age thirteen. He cites two classic opinions: Rashi, who derives the age from the Torah's use of the term "Ish" (man) regarding Shimon and Levi, and the Rosh, who holds that the age is a tradition from Moshe at Sinai. The Rebbe highlights the practical implications of these views, especially regarding the obligations of a Ben Noach (non-Jewish Noahide), and draws a moral lesson: the importance of accepting the yoke of Heaven and mitzvos not only with intellect but with self-sacrifice, as exemplified by the actions of Shimon and Levi immediately upon reaching Bar Mitzvah age.