1. The Passing of Reb Mordechai Schneersohn
The fifth day of Tishrei in the year 5668—corresponding to 1907—marks the yahrzeit (anniversary of passing) of the great genius and chassid, Reb Mordechai Schneersohn. This event took place 106 years ago from the time of this discussion. Reb Mordechai was a prominent figure in Chabad history, known for his scholarship and leadership.
He was the son of Reb Baruch Shalom, who himself was the eldest son of the Tzemach Tzedek. The lineage is significant: our Rebbe is a direct descendant, son after son, from Reb Baruch Shalom, making this family line especially notable within Chabad. Reb Mordechai’s yahrzeit is commemorated on the fifth of Tishrei, and he served as the rabbi of Vitebsk.
2. Early Appointment as Rabbi of Vitebsk
Reb Mordechai Schneersohn was appointed as the rabbi of Vitebsk at a very young age. This was an unusual responsibility for someone so young, but he quickly established himself as a leader with integrity and strength.
One notable story from his early tenure involves his decisive action regarding a community member who served as the shochet—the ritual slaughterer responsible for providing kosher meat to the community. The role of a shochet is critical; he must be a person of impeccable religious behavior because everyone relies on him for kosher food. A mistake could render meat non-kosher, affecting many people.
3. The Controversy with the Shochet
Upon assuming his position, Reb Mordechai determined that this particular shochet was not fit for his role. Despite being young and new to his post, he publicly ruled that it was prohibited to eat from this man's slaughtering. This decision was controversial because the shochet was well-established, had a large family, many supporters, and even the city’s butchers backed him.
Nevertheless, Reb Mordechai did not back down or allow himself to be intimidated by either the shochet or his influential supporters. He made it clear that this individual could no longer serve as a ritual slaughterer in Vitebsk.
4. Public Declaration in Shul and Aftermath
When it became clear that his ruling was being ignored—the shochet continued in his position and even mocked the rabbi’s authority—Reb Mordechai took further action. On Shabbos, he went to the special shul where the butchers davened (prayed), which was also attended by this shochet. When honored with an aliyah to the Torah, Reb Mordechai held onto the Torah with both hands and announced loudly: “With the power of the Torah and my holy fathers, I prohibit this shochet from serving in this role.”
This declaration was made in front of everyone present, including the shochet. After finishing his words, Reb Mordechai descended from the bimah and left the shul. This caused a major tumult in Vitebsk; people were amazed at his unyielding strength and public stand against powerful interests.
Ultimately, Reb Mordechai prevailed—the problematic shochet was removed from his position.
5. Lessons for Rabbinic Leadership Today
This story holds important lessons for contemporary rabbinic leadership. Often today, rabbis may feel pressure not to confront powerful individuals within their communities—whether due to financial influence or strong personalities—especially when their own contracts or livelihoods might be at stake.
However, a rabbi’s true role is to serve Hashem and lead their community according to Torah values rather than being led by communal pressures or fears. When halachic integrity demands taking a stand—even if there may be short-term fallout or controversy—ultimately such courage earns lasting respect and admiration.
6. The Principle: Fear No Person in Judgment
One of the foundational instructions for any rabbi is not to fear any person when rendering judgment because judgment belongs to Hashem alone (Elokim nitzav ba'adas Kel—God stands in His congregation). A rabbi must do what Hashem wants without fear of people’s reactions.
While it is easier said than done and requires significant inner strength and conviction, stories like that of Reb Mordechai Schneersohn serve as inspiration for all who seek to lead with integrity according to Torah principles.
Notes
Reb Mordechai Schneersohn – rabbi of Vitebsk, passed away 5 Tishrei 5668 (1907). Son of Reb Baruch Shalom and grandson of the Tzemach Tzedek.
Reb Baruch Shalom – eldest son of the Tzemach Tzedek and the Rebbe's direct ancestor, father to son. See 22 Cheshvan – his birthday and 16 Shevat – his yahrzeit.
The verse quoted in section 6 is Tehillim 82:1.