1. The Imprisonment of the Mitteler Rebbe
The 28th day of Tishrei, in the year 5587 (1826), marks the day when the Mitteler Rebbe, Reb Dov Ber, traveled to his imprisonment in Vitebsk. This event occurred almost 200 years ago, specifically 183 years ago. The timing of his arrest is noteworthy as it took place shortly after Sukkos, just five days later on the 28th of Tishrei. In contrast, the Alter Rebbe's imprisonments also occurred shortly after Sukkos, specifically on Isru Chag. Both the Alter Rebbe and the Mitteler Rebbe experienced significant periods of incarceration. The Alter Rebbe was imprisoned twice; his first imprisonment lasted until Yud Tes Kislev and his second until the third light of Hanukkah, which falls on the 27th of Kislev. The Mitteler Rebbe's imprisonment was shorter, concluding on Yud Kislev. Notably, all these incarcerations took place during the month of Cheshvan.2. Background and Motives for Arrest
The circumstances surrounding the Mitteler Rebbe's arrest are particularly interesting. His mother, who was married to the Alter Rebbe, hailed from Vitebsk where her family was well-respected. However, many residents of Vitebsk were known for their arrogance and envy towards the honor held by the Mitteler Rebbe. These individuals were staunch misnagdim—opponents of Chassidus—and harbored resentment against him for not agreeing to a shidduch with their family. In a bid for revenge, they conspired with a nefarious individual who sought to extort money from the Mitteler Rebbe. They fabricated a slanderous claim that he was collecting funds to rebel against the government by forging a letter regarding his fundraising efforts for poor people in Israel. Originally stating an amount of 3,000 rubles, they altered it to 103,000 rubles by adding a kuf (100), creating an exaggerated sum that raised suspicion.3. The Arrest and Initial Response
To further their plot against him, they accused the Mitteler Rebbe of sending this large sum to the Turkish Sultan, who governed Eretz Yisrael at that time. Additionally, they claimed that his synagogue had measurements identical to those of the Beit HaMikdash (Holy Temple), insinuating that he intended to build it and establish himself as an independent leader against Russian authority. As news spread about the impending arrest of the Mitteler Rebbe, some Chassidim approached the governor with a request: rather than treating him as an ordinary prisoner, they asked that he be invited to come to Vitebsk voluntarily. The governor consented to this request.4. Journey to Vitebsk
On that fateful morning at 11 o'clock, the Mitteler Rebbe left Lubavitch for Vitebsk. The atmosphere in Lubavitch was filled with anguish; cries and fainting were common among those witnessing his departure. In stark contrast to this turmoil, the Mitteler Rebbe remained calm throughout this ordeal. He continued to accept visitors privately and even composed a Chassidic discourse during this time. Upon arriving in Vitebsk, he was placed in central booking where he remained for several days before arrangements were made for Chassidim to visit him during prayer services (davening). The officer in charge permitted twenty Chassidim to be present during these times and allowed him to deliver Chassidic discourses twice weekly.5. Duration of Imprisonment
The Mitteler Rebbe's imprisonment lasted until Yud Kislev. Throughout this period, numerous questions arose regarding his situation and teachings were shared among those who could access him during davening sessions. The full story surrounding his release will be recounted later on in our discussions as we delve deeper into this significant event in Chabad history.Notes
The Mitteler Rebbe (Rabbi Dovber, the second Lubavitcher Rebbe) – released from this imprisonment on 10 Kislev 5587. See 10 Kislev.
The Alter Rebbe's arrests – see 24 Tishrei – his second arrest, 19 Kislev and 27 Kislev.
Reb Aharon HaLevi of Strashelye – was also imprisoned at this time. See 22 Tishrei.