1. Yud Gimel Elul: Two Significant Events
The 13th day of Elul, Yud Gimel Elul—is marked by two notable events in Chabad history. First, in the year 5636 (1876), it was the yahrtzeit—anniversary of passing—of Yaakov Yisroel of Cherkas. He was the son-in-law of the Mitteler Rebbe, Dov Ber. It is noteworthy and somewhat tragic that Yaakov Yisroel passed away only two months after his wife, Rebbetzin Dvoralea, who was the daughter of the Mitteler Rebbe. The second significant event on this date occurred in 5657 (1897). This was the wedding day of the previous Lubavitcher Rebbe, Yosef Yitzchak Schneerson, to Rebbetzin Nechama Dina. Their union would later bring forth Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka, who became the wife of the Lubavitcher Rebbe.2. The Search for a Shidduch for the Previous Rebbe
When it came time for the previous Rebbe, Yosef Yitzchak, to marry, there were several suggestions for a suitable shidduch—marriage match. As he was the only son of the Rebbe Rashab and Rebbetzin Shterna Sarah, much thought went into finding an appropriate bride. Some proposals came from wealthy families with promises of large dowries. The parents of the previous Rebbe leaned towards a match with the daughter of Rebbe Avraham Schneerson from Kishinev, who was also part of the extended Schneerson family. However, his grandmother, Rebbetzin Rivka (wife of the Rebbe Maharash), considered other options as well. This reflects a common tendency among grandparents to seek both spiritual and material well-being for their grandchildren.3. The Perspective on Material vs. Spiritual Priorities
There is an anecdote illustrating differing priorities when arranging a marriage: A prospective father-in-law asks his future son-in-law how he plans to support his family. The young man replies each time that “God will help.” The father-in-law quips to his friend that this young man must think he himself is God! This story highlights how some focus on material security while others place their trust in divine providence. Ultimately, despite various considerations and suggestions for wealthy matches, spiritual values and family lineage played a decisive role in choosing a bride for Yosef Yitzchak.4. Consulting the Previous Rebbe’s Wishes
In deciding on a match for Yosef Yitzchak, his family chose to ask him directly about his preference—a practice reminiscent of what is described in Torah regarding Yitzchak and Rivka: “Let us ask the girl.” They presented him with all proposed matches and asked where his heart lay. Yosef Yitzchak responded by referencing that Avraham instructed Eliezer to find a wife “from my family.” Since Avraham Schneerson’s daughter was from within their own family lineage, he expressed a preference for marrying her. This approach emphasized continuity within the family and spiritual compatibility over material considerations.5. Details of the Wedding Invitation and Date
The Rebbe Rashab’s invitation to his son’s wedding expressed gratitude to Hashem for being privileged with this marriage: “Hashem has blessed me with marrying off my only son Yosef Yitzchak to my cousin’s daughter from Kishinev.” The wedding was scheduled for Friday (Erev Shabbos Kodesh), the 13th of Elul. The invitation included prayers that Hashem should grant them many more occasions for joy together. Thus, Yud Gimel Elul became established as both a day commemorating significant personal loss within Chabad leadership and as an occasion celebrating continuity through marriage.6. Weddings in Elul: Timing and Significance
It appears that many weddings among Chabad leaders took place during Elul. While not every month is suitable for weddings due to various halachic considerations regarding auspicious times (zmanim mesugalim), Elul stands out as particularly favorable. Elul is considered a holy month—a time when “the king is in the field,” signifying divine closeness and blessing before Rosh Hashanah. This made it an especially appropriate period for joyous occasions such as weddings among Tzaddikim—righteous leaders—and their families.7. Simplicity and Spiritual Focus at Chassidic Weddings
Weddings in earlier generations did not focus heavily on material extravagance or outdoing others with elaborate celebrations. While they certainly celebrated beautifully, emphasis was placed on spiritual joy and inner happiness rather than external fanfare. This perspective serves as a reminder that true celebration comes from meaningful connection and spiritual fulfillment rather than material display or competition among families.Notes
The Previous Rebbe's parents – see 11 Elul – the wedding of the Rebbe Rashab and Rebbetzin Shterna Sarah.
Tomchei Temimim – announced two days after the wedding. See 15 Elul 5657.
The Previous Rebbe – see 12 Tamuz – his birthday and release and 10 Shevat – his passing.