1. The Wedding of Reb Baruch, Grandson of the Alter Rebbe
The 13th day of Kislev, in the year 5568 (תקס״ח)—corresponding to December 14, 1807—is noted in Yemei Chabad as the date of a significant but somewhat mysterious event. It is recorded as the wedding of Reb Baruch, who was a grandson of the Alter Rebbe. This is interesting because the Alter Rebbe’s own father was also named Baruch, yet here it refers to his grandson with that name.
The details about this Reb Baruch are not entirely clear. There is some debate and uncertainty among historians and in Chabad sources regarding exactly which grandson named Baruch this refers to. The sources do not provide a definitive identification, leaving room for discussion and research.
In the collection of maamarim—discourses—that the Alter Rebbe delivered in 5568 (תקס״ח), there is a specific maamar recorded as having been said at this wedding. This can be found in the second section on the relevant page in that collection. The fact that a special discourse was delivered by the Alter Rebbe at his grandson’s wedding highlights the significance of this event within Chabad history.
2. The Federal Court Ruling Regarding the Rebbe’s Testimony
Another important event took place on the 13th day of Kislev, but much later in history: in 5746 (תשמ״ו), corresponding to November 26, 1985. On this date, a federal court ruled that the Rebbe did not have to come and testify in court. This ruling was connected to the well-known legal case involving the Chabad library and its books.
The intention behind trying to summon the Rebbe to testify was seen as an attempt by opponents to embarrass or diminish his honor by forcing him onto the witness stand. However, there is a clear halacha—Jewish law—brought down both in the Talmud and in Shulchan Aruch: a king is not called upon to testify, nor does one testify against a king. Such proceedings are considered undignified and inappropriate for someone on that level; a king is regarded as being beyond reproach.
The other side tried very hard to compel the Rebbe’s appearance in federal court, but ultimately, the court decided that he was exempt from testifying. This outcome was taken by Chassidim as a special sign of Hashem’s help—a protection for both the Rebbe personally and for his honor as leader of Chabad.
This ruling on Yud-Gimmel Kislev became another meaningful date in Chabad history, remembered for Hashem’s intervention on behalf of the Rebbe and his dignity.