כב תשרי תקפ"ט - פטירת ר' אהרן הלוי מסטרשעלע

1. The Passing of Reb Ahron Halevi

Reb Ahron Halevi from Strashelye passed away on the 22nd day of Tishrei, which is also Shmini Atzeres, in the year 5589 (1828). This event occurred nearly 200 years ago. Reb Ahron was an 8th generation descendant of the Shelah HaKadosh and a prominent Talmudist and scholar known for his contributions to Jewish philosophy and law.

2. Early Life and Relationship with the Alter Rebbe

From a young age, Reb Ahron Halevi dedicated himself to Torah study, showing little interest in worldly desires or materialism. He became close to the Alter Rebbe, who valued him greatly and appointed him as a study partner to his son, the Mitteler Rebbe. Their bond was akin to that of brothers, characterized by mutual respect and deep affection. Reb Ahron's service to Hashem was marked by enthusiasm and fervor, inspiring those around him during prayer and study.

3. The Alter Rebbe’s Letter

After the Alter Rebbe's release from imprisonment, he wrote a letter to Reb Ahron, addressing him as “my honorable student” and referring to him as a “Godly giant.” In this correspondence, he expressed admiration for Reb Ahron's spiritual stature, even suggesting that he possessed a spirit double that of the Alter Rebbe himself. This acknowledgment highlights the profound respect the Alter Rebbe had for Reb Ahron.

4. Later Years and Separation

Following the Alter Rebbe's relocation from Liozna to Liadi, Reb Ahron also settled in Liadi for eight years. However, tensions arose leading to a fallout that caused significant distress for Reb Ahron. He eventually sold his home and moved to Orsha, where he continued his Torah study and prayer while occasionally visiting the Alter Rebbe. This period marked a gradual separation between them.

5. Leadership After the Alter Rebbe

After the passing of the Alter Rebbe, some Chassidim chose to follow Reb Ahron instead of aligning with the Mitteler Rebbe. This decision contributed to a rift within Chabad leadership at that time. Despite this division, many still regarded Reb Ahron with reverence; he was seen as a holy man but not necessarily as a Rebbe by all.

6. Testimonies from Chassidim

Reb Abo of Sashnik recounted how he was taken to see Reb Ahron at age twelve. He described how passionately Reb Ahron spoke about the Alter Rebbe—standing up in excitement whenever mentioning his name. Although he later connected with subsequent leaders like the Tzemach Tzedek, he maintained an enduring respect for Reb Ahron's fervent devotion.

7. Incarceration and Legacy

In 5587 (1826), Reb Ahron was also incarcerated during a tumultuous period when the Mitteler Rebbe faced imprisonment. He authored numerous works in line with Chabad philosophy before passing away on Shmini Atzeres in Strashelye, where he was ultimately interred. His legacy continues through his writings and teachings within Chabad tradition.

Notes

Reb Aharon HaLevi of Strashelye – one of the Alter Rebbe's foremost students, author of Sha'arei HaAvodah and Avodas HaLevi.

The Mitteler Rebbe (Rabbi Dovber, the second Lubavitcher Rebbe) – his study partner. The Mitteler Rebbe's imprisonment in 5587 is told on 28 Tishrei and his release on 10 Kislev.

The Alter Rebbe – see 14 Menachem Av – settling in Liadi and 24 Teves – his yahrzeit.