1. The First Chassidic Aliyah to Eretz Yisrael
The fifth day of Elul marks a significant milestone in Chabad and Chassidic history: the first aliyah, or ascent, of the early chassidim to Eretz Yisrael. This historic journey was led by the great Rabbi Menachem Mendel of Vitebsk. On Hey Elul, this group arrived in the Holy Land, setting a precedent for future generations of chassidim and Jews at large.2. Background: Chassidim and Mitnagdim
To understand the context of this aliyah, it’s important to recall the division within the Jewish religious community at that time. There were two main groups: the chassidim and their opponents, known as mitnagdim—those who opposed the chassidic movement. The mitnagdim were not only vocal but also active in their opposition, creating significant difficulties for the chassidim. After the passing of the Maggid of Mezritch, who was both a disciple and successor to the Baal Shem Tov and served as a central unifying force among early chassidic leaders, these challenges intensified.3. Leadership After the Maggid of Mezritch
Rabbi Menachem Mendel of Vitebsk emerged as one of the elder and most respected disciples of the Maggid of Mezritch. He was considered by many as an undeclared leader after his teacher’s passing. The Alter Rebbe, Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi, referred to him with great reverence as “my teacher, my master.” Alongside Rabbi Menachem Mendel were other distinguished students: Rabbi Avraham of Kalisk and Rabbi Yisroel of Polotsk. Initially, even the Alter Rebbe joined this group with his own students from White Russia (he was living in Liozna at the time; he moved to Liadi only in 1801).4. The Alter Rebbe’s Decision to Remain
When word spread that the Alter Rebbe planned to join this aliyah to Eretz Yisrael, his students were deeply distressed and pleaded with him not to leave them leaderless. The Alter Rebbe explained using a teaching from our sages: “Your life comes first,” referencing a scenario where one must prioritize their own survival if resources are limited. Nevertheless, when they reached Mohilov near the Dniester River (close to what was then the Turkish border), Rabbi Menachem Mendel convinced him that he was needed in White Russia and Lithuania. After much persuasion, the Alter Rebbe agreed to stay behind, bringing immense joy to his followers despite his own difficult parting from close friends.5. The Journey and Its Challenges
The group set out in the summer of תקל"ז (5537 — 1777), with approximately 400 people making up this pioneering aliyah. Their route involved traveling by several boats from Mohilov towards Eretz Yisrael. Tragically, a severe storm struck along their journey; one boat carrying about 80 chassidim capsized, resulting in most passengers drowning—only around 30 survived and reached the Crimean peninsula (Krim). The rest continued by boat via Turkey (likely through Istanbul) down toward Haifa on the Mediterranean coast.6. Arrival and Settlement in Eretz Yisrael
Unaware at first of their companions’ tragedy, those on other boats pressed on and arrived in Eretz Yisrael on Hey Elul. Initially settling in Tzfat—the city renowned for its kabbalists—the group soon faced insurmountable difficulties there. Rabbi Menachem Mendel eventually relocated to Tiberias (Tiveria), where he is buried today.7. Economic Hardships and Support Structures
Life for these early settlers was extremely challenging; there were few means for sustenance or employment available in Eretz Yisrael at that time. Hunger was widespread throughout the land, which was sparsely inhabited compared to today’s claims over its territory. To support these pioneers, funds were raised abroad—primarily through efforts led by the Alter Rebbe back in Russia.8. Disagreements Over Charity Distribution
As is often seen when money is involved, disputes arose regarding how funds should be distributed among different groups in Eretz Yisrael. Accusations surfaced about unfair allocation; eventually each faction began sending its own representatives abroad to collect charity for its members alone rather than pooling resources together as originally intended.9. Lasting Impact: Kolel Chabad and Tzedakah for Eretz Yisrael
Despite these challenges and some families returning due to hardship, a core community persisted thanks largely to ongoing charitable support from abroad—a theme emphasized repeatedly by the Alter Rebbe in his writings such as Igeres HaKodesh. He stressed that tzedakah—charity—for Eretz Yisrael is among the highest mitzvos one can perform. This commitment even led to accusations against him by authorities who claimed he was aiding foreign powers through large remittances sent overseas. The primary fund established for this purpose became known as Kolel Chabad—a tradition that continues today alongside other funds like Kolel Poland or Kolel Meir Baal Hanes—each supporting different segments within Eretz Yisrael’s Jewish population descended from those original pioneers.