1. Overview of the Yahrzeit
Today marks the 11th day of Cheshvan, in the year 5669 (1908). We are commemorating the yahrzeit of HaRav HaKadosh Reb Schneur Zalman Aharon, known as the Raza. He was the oldest son of the Rebbe Maharash, the fourth Lubavitcher Rebbe. His yahrzeit falls on the 11th of Cheshvan, and he was a distinguished individual within the Rebbe's family, known for his exceptional talents and beautiful character.
2. The Raza's Leadership and Character
Despite being the oldest son and possessing great intellect and emotional depth, the Raza refused to accept the leadership after his father's passing at a young age (48). Instead, the leadership passed to his younger brother, Reb Sholom Dovber—the Rebbe Rashab—who was in his early 20s at that time. The Rebbe Rashab did not fully assume his father's role until about ten years later, out of respect for the Raza. The Raza became a businessman who used his wealth to support the Jewish community during difficult times in Russia.
3. Family Connections
The Raza's first marriage was to his cousin, the daughter of Reb Yisroel Noach of Niezhin—a son of the Tzemach Tzedek and a brother of the Rebbe Maharash. This practice of marrying cousins is common in the family, as seen with other prominent figures like the Tzemach Tzedek, who married the daughter of the Mitteler Rebbe.
4. Personality and Compassion
The Raza was known for his strong character; he was not overly soft but had a good heart. Despite suffering from various ailments and pain throughout his life, he maintained a cheerful demeanor and never displayed self-pity. However, he deeply empathized with others' suffering; when someone else was in pain, it visibly affected him.
5. A Story of Compassion
An illustrative story involves an individual who left a meeting with the Rebbe Rashab in tears after being told that he could not be helped with his spiritual problem. The Raza intervened by speaking to his brother about the situation. The Rebbe Rashab then reassessed and ultimately provided guidance to help the distressed individual. This incident highlights how sometimes tough love is necessary to break through barriers that prevent genuine remorse or teshuvah.
6. Legacy and Writings
The Raza had a remarkable ability to convey stories accurately—a skill that made him a beloved figure among Chassidim. He possessed a sharp mind capable of attending to many things at once. He passed away at about 50 years old, having burned many of his writings before his passing and instructed that their ashes be buried with him—a testament to his humility.
7. Reflection on Humility
The Rebbe has spoken about the Raza's immense humility and how it may have influenced his decision to destroy much of his work before passing away. He may have wished for no competition with his brother's leadership, or felt unworthy of recognition for his writings.
8. Conclusion: Continuing Influence
Although the Raza is no longer physically present with us, we continue to draw inspiration from his character and from what he and others in the family left behind. These teachings remain relevant today as we await Moshiach's arrival while maintaining our connection to these profound legacies.
Notes
The Raza (Reb Zalman Aharon, 5618–5669 / 1858–1908) – see 19 Tamuz – his birth.
The Rebbe Maharash – his father. See 13 Tishrei – his yahrtzeit and 2 Iyar – his birthday.
The Rebbe Rashab – his younger brother. See 16 Tishrei – accepting the leadership and 20 Cheshvan – his birthday.
Rebbe Yisroel Noach of Niezhin – his father-in-law. See 17 Nissan – his passing.