LIVING WITH MOSHIACH, Parshat Shoftim

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B"H
LIVING WITH MOSHIACH
Weekly Digest About Moshiach

PARSHAT SHOFTIM
3 Elul, 5777
August 25, 2017

SPECIAL FEATURES:
The Rebbe's Prophecy

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* This week's issue of Living With Moshiach *
* is dedicated in loving memory of *
* Mrs. Aita Leah bas Reb Meir Michel *
* Stayer *
* Passed away on 29 Nissan, 5774 *
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* May her Soul Merit Eternal Life *
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5777

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THIS PUBLICATION IS DEDICATED TO THE REBBE,
RABBI MENACHEM M. SCHNEERSON
OF LUBAVITCH

"I BELIEVE WITH COMPLETE FAITH IN THE ARRIVAL OF THE MOSHIACH.

"AND THOUGH HE MAY TARRY, I SHALL WAIT EACH DAY, ANTICIPATING
HIS ARRIVAL." Maimonides, Principles of the Faith, No. 12

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* TABLE OF CONTENTS *
*********************

* Introduction.
* Customs Corner.
* The Rebbe's Prophecy.
* Prophecy Today.
* "I say what I mean"
* Some of The Rebbe's Prophecies.
The Six-Day War.
The Yom Kippur War.
Russian Immigration.
The Collapse of Communism.
* The Rebbe and the Professor.
* A Deadline and a Dream.
* It Happened Once.
* Moshiach Matters.
* Time for Unity; Time for Strength!
* A Call to Action.
* The Weekly Shabbat Calendar.
* "Let There Be Light" - The Jewish Women's Guide to Lighting
Shabbat Candles.
* Laws of Shabbat Candle Lighting for the Blind.
* Shabbat Candle Lighting Blessing.
* Moshiach Information Hotlines.
* Moshiach In The Air -- Electronic Media.
* Subscription Information for this Weekly Magazine:
Living With Moshiach.

****************
* INTRODUCTION *
****************

We are pleased to present, to the visually impaired and the
blind, the 1046th issue of our weekly publication, Living
With Moshiach.

*

This Shabbat, Parshat Shoftim, is 26 years since the Rebbe,
Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson of Lubavitch, issued a call that "THE
TIME OF OUR REDEMPTION HAS ARRIVED!" and "MOSHIACH IS ON HIS WAY!"

The Rebbe stressed that he is saying this AS A PROPHECY, and
asks us all to prepare ourselves for the Redemption, through
increasing acts of goodness and kindness.

LET US ALL HEED THE REBBE'S CALL.

*

We take this opportunity to wish you and yours a K'Siva
Vachasima Tova, a happy, healthy and prosperous New Year.[*]

*

Our sincere appreciation to L'Chaim weekly publication,
published by the Lubavitch Youth Organization, for allowing
us to use their material.

Also, many thanks to our new copy editor, Reb Benyomin Hoffman,
for his tireless efforts,.

and, many thanks to our former copy editor, Reb Mordechai
Staiman, of blessed memory ("http://www.torah4blind.org/staiman"),
for his tireless efforts.

*

It is our fervent hope that our learning about Moshiach and the
Redemption will hasten the coming of Moshiach, NOW!

Rabbi Yosef Y. Shagalov
Executive Director
Enlightenment For The Blind, Inc.
E-Mail:y...@torah4blind.org
3 Elul, 5777
Los Angeles, California

P.S.: As we are eagerly awaiting the immediate arrival of Moshiach,
at any moment, we have included the five blessings that
(according to many opinions) will be applicable when Moshiach
comes.
_______________
*. This year, Rosh HaShanah is celebrated on Thurs., Sept. 21, 2017
and Friday, September 22, 2017.

*************************************************
* IN LOVING MEMORY OF *
* Horav Schneur Zalman Halevi *
* ben Horav Yitzchok Elchonon Halevi *
* Shagalov *
* Passed away on 21 Tamuz, 5766 *
* *
* Reb Dovid Asniel ben Reb Eliyahu *
* Ekman *
* Passed away on 5 Sivan - Erev Shavuot, 5765 *
* *
* Mrs. Devora Rivka bas Reb Yosef Eliezer *
* Marenburg *
* Passed away on the second day *
* of Rosh Chodesh Adar, 5766 *
* *
* Reb Yitzchok Moshe (Ian) ben Reb Dovid Asniel *
* Ekman (Santiago, Chile) *
* Passed away on 24 Shevat, 5769 *
* *
* May Their Souls Merit Eternal Life *
* *
* AND IN HONOR OF *
* Mrs. Esther Shaindel bas Fraidel Chedva *
* Shagalov *
* * *
* Dedicated by *
* Rabbi & Mrs. Yosef Yitzchok and Gittel Rochel *
* Shagalov *
*************************************************

******************
* CUSTOMS CORNER *
******************

Are there special blessings that we will recite when Moshiach
comes?

According to many opinions there are five blessings that will be
applicable when Moshiach comes. [*]

#1

BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM
GA'AL YISRAEL.

Translation:

Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
Who redeems Israel.

#2

BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM
SHE-HECHE-YO-NU VE-KI-YE-MO-NU VE-HIGI-O-NU
LIZ-MAN HA-ZEH.

Translation:

Blessed are you, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
Who has granted us life, sustained us and enabled us
to reach this occasion.

#3

BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM
SHE-CHA-LAK M'CHACH-MA-TO L'REI'AV.

Translation:

Blessed are you, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
Who has given wisdom to those who fear Him.

#4

BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM
SHE-CHA-LAK M'KI-VODO L'REI'AV.

Translation:

Blessed are you, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
Who has given honor to those who fear Him.

#5

BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM
CHA-CHAM HA-RA-ZIM.

Translation:

Blessed are you, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
the Wise One of secrets.

_______________
*. Adapted from "L'Chaim weekly" publication, Issue #1003,
published by the Lubavitch Youth Organization, Brooklyn,
NY. "www.lchaimweekly.org".

*********************************************
* IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR DEAR GRANDPARENTS,*
* *
* Reb Shmuel Pesach Ben Reb Yaakov Dovid *
* Passed away on 3 Tishrei, 5755 *
* *
* Mrs. Fraidel Chedvah Bas Reb Zev Wolf *
* Passed away on 4 Adar II, 5755 *
* Pais *
* *
* May Their Souls Merit Eternal Life *
* * *
* Dedicated by their grandchildren *
* Rabbi & Mrs. Yosef Y. and Gittel Rochel *
* Shagalov *
*********************************************

************************
* THE REBBE'S PROPHECY *
************************

26 Years Ago This Week, Torah Portion:
Shoftim (Chapter 18, Deuteronomy)

Miracles, foretelling the future, and an uncanny understanding
of every individual and situation were always associated with the
Rebbe, but the week of the Torah portion Shoftim, 5751/1991, saw
the Rebbe's open acknowledgment that he is a prophet and that as a
messenger of G-d, he is delivering the unprecedented news, "Behold,
Moshiach is coming."

His words are all the more remarkable since in all the years of
his leadership, he did not even referr to himself as the Rebbe,
speaking of his father-in-law, the Previous Rebbe, as leading the
generation. Nor was it the Rebbe's way to acknowledge as such the
many miracles or prophecies which came through him.

In one instance, when someone had the nerve to ask the Rebbe how
he knew to announce during the Gulf War that "Israel is the safest
place in the world," he is said to have responded, "I looked into
the Torah and saw what it says, that G-d's eyes are on it from the
beginning of the year to the end." Yet none of us would ever dare
to take the same responsibility from reading that same Torah
passage!

The miracles and prophecies of the Rebbe are legion, and have
appeared in national and international media. Everyone knows the
miracles of the Rebbe were accomplished without fanfare, with a
wave of the hand, or clothed in "advice." Yet the only time the
Rebbe openly alluded to himself as a prophet was the week of the
Torah portion, Shoftim, which includes in it the commandment to the
Jewish people to listen to their prophets.

It was this week that the Rebbe delivered what he called his
most essential prophecy, that Moshiach is actually coming, and
asked that it be publicized to the entire world. He also reminded
the Jewish people of the Torah laws regarding a prophet, how a true
prophet must be obeyed, and should not be overly tested.

The Rebbe begins his talk with a discussion of the Torah
commandment from Shoftim (Judges), "You shall appoint judges and
officers in all your gates," and how this is similar to what is
said in the daily prayers, three times a day (from Isaiah), "Return
our judges as of old, and our advisors as in the beginning," which
will take place in the final Redemption.

He elaborates extensively about the differences between a judge
and an advisor and how both are needed in terms of Divine service.
A judge is on a level above the litigants and delivers rulings from
an elevated plane of authority.

On the other hand, an advisor is like a friend, similar in level
to the person, and is able to communicate that it is in the
person's own best interest to accept the directive from above.

The judge represents the authority of the Torah. The advisor
represents the internalization of the Torah ruling which the person
sees is for his own good. Torah service is not complete without
these two: a decree from above, and the ability to internalize it
so that the person accepts it willingly and gladly, and not because
it is forced on him.

Then the Rebbe draws a parallel between judges and advisors and
Torah and prophecy. Torah, like the judge, issues rulings that come
from above, endowed with Divine power and assistance. Prophecy,
which is G-d's message as He chooses to communicate it through His
spokespeople, is given in a way of advice, first to the prophet,
becoming unified with his mind and speech, and then announced to
the people in a way that they can grasp it.

In the Rebbe's words (translated from the Hebrew): [1]

"Torah transcends the world, for it is the will and wisdom of
G-d. Thus in the same way one cannot grasp the being of G-d in any
way, the real essence of Torah is above our comprehension.

"In contrast, prophecy -- even though it is the word of G-d,
'the spirit of G-d spoke to me,' -- is the revelation of G-dliness
to man. 'He revealed his secrets to his servants, the prophets,'
according to their limits that it should be absorbed in the
knowledge and mind of the prophet. A prophet becomes as one with
the prophecy communicated to him and the vision of prophecy becomes
clothed in his mind and understanding and also in his thought and
speech, as it is written, 'The spirit of G-d spoke in me, and His
word is on my tongue.'

"Moreover, prophecy is intended to be revealed through speech.
The very term in Hebrew for prophecy, nevuah, implies that it is a
subject proclaimed and announced to the people as in the term niv
s'fosayim ('the expression of the lips'). This contrasts with Torah
which can remain in one's thoughts. Also, the import of prophecy
has connection with the events of the world. To quote the Rambam,
'A prophet is only there to inform us of what is going to happen in
the future of the world.'

"Thus, the Torah and prophecy reflect the difference between
'your judges' and 'your advisors.' The task of the judge is to rule
on the laws of the Torah, which is done by way of demand and
decree. The advisor gives his advice 'clothed' in language
acceptable to the advised, which he can understand, as is the way
of a prophet."

Like an advisor, the Rebbe is coming to us in a way that takes
into account our state of being, our readiness to hear G-d's
message about the Redemption, and in a way that we are able to
accept and internalize it.

However, there is another dimension to it. It is a commandment
from the Torah to obey the prophets. Thus when we listen to a
prophet, we are combining the two elements of Divine service:
accepting the decree from above, and internalizing it of our own
free will.

In the Rebbe's words:

"Just as there is a command to obey 'your judges' at all times,
as is written in our Torah portion, Shoftim, so there is a command
to obey the prophets, as is written separately in the Torah portion
(18:15), 'G-d will set up for you a prophet from your midst, from
your brothers, like me, and you shall harken to him.'

"In this context, the Rambam explains, 'One of the fundamentals
of the religion is to know that G-d sends His prophecies through
people.'

"In his Iggeres Taimon, the Rambam writes that 'as a preparatory
step for Moshiach's coming....prophecy will return to Israel.' This
can be understood in connection with the explanations above. To
prepare us to be able to receive the revelations of the Era of
Redemption, we must experience through prophecy a foretaste of the
'advice' that will be communicated in that era.

"It is therefore important for later generations to know that it
is 'one of the fundamentals of the religion is to know that G-d
sends His prophecies through people.' Always, in all generations,
the revelation of prophecy is possible. Moreover, this will include
even a level of prophecy which is akin to the prophecy of Moshe as
implied by the verse, 'I will set up for them from their brothers
like you.' Moshe's level is the zenith of prophecy, as the Rambam
explains at great length. Nevertheless it is not exclusive to him,
but reflected to others as well.

"In all generations, even before the Resurrection of the Dead,
it is necessary to know that Torah law prescribes that G-d sends
his prophecies through men, that the verse, 'I will set up a
prophet...like you (Moshe)' applies in every generation. Every
prophet is a continuation of the prophecy of Moshe and his Torah
(except that in regard to revelation, there are different levels,
as the Rambam explains)."

The Rebbe goes on to explain that we already have a foretaste of
our "judges as of old" and our "advisors as at the beginning" in
the generations of the Chabad Rebbes. "These leaders are the
individuals through whom 'prophecy will return to Israel.' They are
the prophets of our generation, 'like me (Moshe),' i.e. they are
the 'spark of Moshe' that exists in every generation."

The Rebbe elaborates:

"They are 'your judges.' This is reflected in their function as
nesi'im (leaders). This term, related to the word hisnasus,
'uplifted,' reflects how they are elevated above the people. In
this capacity they serve as teachers of the Torah to the people.
Similarly they serve as 'your advisors,' giving counsel in
connection with our Torah service, and also giving advice in
worldly matters, which is the function of prophets."

Coming closer and closer to the main point of his talk, the
Rebbe urges every person to accept upon himself the rulings and
advice of the judges and advisors of our generation, our Rabbis in
general, and in particular, "the leader of our generation, the
judge, adviser and prophet of our generation," (meaning himself!).
Our acceptance of the "judge, advisor and prophet of our
generation" helps this aspect of Redemption, which we pray for
three times a day, to bloom.

The Rebbe emphasizes that we believe him, not only because of
what we have seen with our own eyes, but because of the Divine
command from the Torah to heed a prophet. He says that G-d has
chosen an individual to serve as judge, advisor and prophet to the
generation. Notably, this leader brings not only the Jews closer to
Divine service, but indeed, "all the people of this generation."
Then he delivers the prophecy that we will see Moshiach with our
own eyes.

The Rebbe's words follow.

"When a person has the merits and individual perfection required
of a prophet, and he performs signs and wonders -- as we saw and
see continually in the fulfillment of the blessings of the leader
of our generation, the Previous Rebbe, 'we do not believe in him
only because of the sign [he performed]..., but because of the
commandment which Moshe gave in the Torah.'

"Furthermore, a prophet about whom another prophet testifies
that he is a prophet -- as in the case with the Previous Rebbe, and
is continued in the next generation through his disciples --, he is
accepted as a prophet and requires no investigation. He has to be
obeyed immediately 'even before he performs a sign.' 'It is
forbidden to disparage or criticize his prophecy saying that it is
perhaps not true.' There is a specific negative commandment
forbidding us to test a prophet more than necessary. After it has
become known that he is a prophet, the people should believe in
him, and they should not disparage or criticize him. Their belief
should not be in the prophet as an individual, but as a messenger
charged with communicating the words of G-d.

"This concept has to be publicized to EVERYONE in this
generation. It must be made known that we have merited that G-d has
chosen and appointed a person who of himself is far greater than
the people of his generation, to serve as a judge, adviser and
prophet to the generation. He will grant rulings and advice in
connection with the service of the Jews and indeed, of all the
people of this generation, in all matters of the Torah and its
mitzvos, and in their general day to day behavior, allowing them to
'know Him in all your ways,' so that 'all your actions should be
for the sake of Heaven.'

"SURELY THIS INCLUDES THE FUNDAMENTAL PROPHECY, 'TO REDEMPTION
IMMEDIATELY,' FOR 'BEHOLD, MOSHIACH IS COMING.'"
Adapted from the Rebbe's talk, on
Shabbat Parshat Shoftim, 5751/1991

* * *

What makes the Rebbe's declaration -- that Moshiach's arrival is
imminent and the time for the Redemption has arrived -- different
from those of great leaders of previous generations?

The Jewish people have believed in and awaited Moshiach's coming
since the beginning of our nation. In numerous instances throughout
Jewish history, tzaddikim (righteous people) of various generations
pointed to hints in the Torah that the promised Redemption was near
at hand. Sensing the special opportunity for Moshiach's coming,
they motivated the Jewish people to study more Torah, do more
mitzvot and repent in the hope that these actions would be what was
needed to make the Redemption happen.

In the times of the Previous Rebbe, the anticipation for the
Redemption was truly tangible. The Previous Rebbe issued an urgent
call to world Jewry: "Immediate repentance brings immediate
Redemption."

Even when the Rebbe accepted the leadership in 1950, though he
said unequivocally that our generation is the last generation to
live in exile and the first generation of the Redemption, he did
not say that we had yet reached the moment of Redemption. Only
forty years later, after sending thousands of emissaries around the
world, initiating the Mitzvah Campaigns to reinvigorate Jewish
observance, and inspiring millions, did the Rebbe proclaim, "The
time of our Redemption has arrived." This is a totally different
message that has never before been enunciated in the history of the
Jewish people.

The Midrash (Yalkut Shimoni) tells us that in a time when we
will witness an event like the Gulf War, Moshiach will tell the
Jewish people that the time of the Redemption has arrived. THIS IS
NOT A HOPE, A WISH, OR A SPECIAL OPPORTUNITY, BUT A CALL TO PREPARE
TO GREET MOSHIACH!

The Rebbe has said that the time is now. The question each of us
must ask ourselves is not, "When is Moshiach coming?" but rather,
"Am I ready for Moshiach's coming today!"
_______________
1. Adapted from the Rebbe's talk, as edited by the Rebbe, and
printed in "Sefer Hasichot 5751," Vol. 2 (pp. 780-795).

For the full text of the Rebbe's talk, in Hebrew -
http://www.torah4blind.org/hebrew/softim51.htm

*******************************************************
* IN LOVING MEMORY OF OUR DEAR FRIEND AND COPY EDITOR *
* Reb Mordechai ben Reb Shaul *
* Staiman *
* Passed away on 22 Tamuz, 5763 *
* *
* May His Soul Merit Eternal Life *
*******************************************************

***************************************
* PROPHECY TODAY *
* Adapted from the Works of the Rebbe *
***************************************

Of [2] all the prophecies in Scripture that refer to the
messianic era, the one contained in the Torah portion of Balak, is
most unusual in that it came from Bilaam, a gentile prophet.
Bilaam, the foremost prophet of his time, was forced against his
will to foretell the downfall of the nations of the world and the
ultimate ascendancy of the Jewish people.

The very fact that this prophecy is included in our holy Torah
indicates its special significance; indeed, it contains a distinct
advantage precisely because it was said by a non-Jew. For when
Moshiach comes, the Jewish people will no longer be subservient to
the nations; on the contrary, the gentile leaders will vie with one
another for the privilege of serving the Jews! Thus, the prophecy
of Bilaam concerning the Final Redemption not only gave the
Children of Israel cause for rejoicing over their future, it
actually afforded them a "taste" of the way things will be in the
messianic era.

As far as prophecy itself is concerned, our Sages foretold its
reoccurrence among the Jewish people before Moshiach's arrival
according to the following chronology: Commenting on the verse in
the Torah portion of Balak, "At the proper time shall it be said to
Jacob and to Israel, what G-d has wrought," Maimonides noted that
prophecy would return to Israel after "the proper time" had elapsed
after Bilaam, i.e., after the same number of years as had passed
since the creation of the world until his prophecy. Bilaam's
prophecy was said in the year 2488; 2488 years after that, in the
year 4976 (we are now in the year 5777), prophecy was destined to
return to the Jewish people.

In fact we find that this was indeed the case, for it was then
that prophetic luminaries began to appear on the Jewish horizon --
Rabbi Shmuel Hanavi, Rabbi Elazar Baal "Harokeach," Nachmanides,
the Ravad (Rabbi Abraham ben David), Rabbi Ezra Hanavi and Rabbi
Yehuda the Chasid, and others.

More generations passed until the birth of Rabbi Israel Baal
Shem Tov, the founder of Chasidus, and his successor, the Maggid of
Mezeritch, about whom it was said that they "could see from one end
of the world to the other." The following generation produced Rabbi
Shneur Zalman, who formulated Chabad Chasidus. Had he lived in the
times of our prophets he would have been on a par with them;
moreover, this chain of prophecy continued from one Chabad leader
to the next, until the present day [when the Rebbe has prophesied
that Moshiach's arrival is imminent].

The return of prophecy to the Jewish people is therefore both a
prerequisite and preparation for the messianic era, which is due to
begin at any moment.
_______________
2. Adapted from the Rebbe's talk, on Shabbat Parshat Balak,
5717/1957, as edited by the Rebbe, and printed in "Likutei
Sichot," Vol. 2 (pp. 588-9).

***********************
* "I SAY WHAT I MEAN" *
***********************

"I ask that they not act foolishly and add their own
explanations and interpretations to my words, e.g., that I really
meant such and such, etc. . . I say what I mean."
The Rebbe, 21 Menachem Av, 5744/1984

*

Some people still ask, "What did the Rebbe REALLY say about
Moshiach and the Redemption." The following quotes from the Rebbe
were said at public gatherings, in front of thousands of people.
Some are from transcripts of the Rebbe's talks while others are
from published essays that were edited by the Rebbe after being
adapted from his public talks.

"Just as until now it was clear to each one of us that the Rebbe
would lead us to greet our righteous Moshiach, so should it be
clear now. That which happened is only from our material point of
view. It is nothing more than a trial, one of the trials of the
birthpangs of Moshiach that need to occur before the arrival of the
righteous Redeemer. The sole purpose of these trials is to conceal
the truth."
Shabbat Teruma, 5710/1950

"Since Jacob was mourned and buried as prescribed by the Torah,
because it APPEARED to them that he died, this draws down the
potential for every one to reach the Resurrection of the Dead
through the service of refining and purifying the body -- negating
the body -- via its return to the dust. Through the process of
negation (which, as explained, can be fulfilled through the
spiritual service of 'My soul will be as dust to all,' in which
case there is no need to actually return to dust), we come to the
Resurrection of the Dead in the true and ultimate Redemption."
Av, 5731/1971

"As such the Al-mighty's Redemption is actually brought about
through His emissary, the righteous Moshiach, with all eight names
attributed to him. This includes also 'His name is Menachem' in a
way that 'One points with his finger and exclaims, 'Behold! Here he
is! Here is Menachem, our righteous Moshiach!''"
1 Menachem Av, 5749/1989

"Every single Jew must perform his Divine service in a manner
similar to and befitting the days of Moshiach and the subsequent
era of the Resurrection of the Dead. This is exhibited first and
foremost through faith, anticipation and knowledge that
supernatural events will occur in the days of Moshiach, namely,
the Resurrection of the Dead. Belief in these concepts must be with
certainty, and must be as unshakably firm as the belief in the Ten
Commandments.

"Obviously the belief in the Resurrection of the Dead requires
that same degree of certainty and anticipation. This must be
emphasized so much more in our present generation, when many
messianic signs are unfolding. These constitute a clear indication
that Moshiach is already present in the world. Moreover, he is
already a prominent Jewish leader, 'a king from the House of David,
deeply absorbed in the study of Torah,' etc.

"Therefore, in our present generation, great emphasis must be
placed on the belief in the coming of Moshiach and anything that
relates to it."
Shabbat Acharei, 5746/1986

"We see in recent years how the verse 'And Moses gathered the
Jews' is occurring literally -- the ingathering of the exiles of
Jews from all over the world, who are returning to the Holy Land.
The number of people moving to the Holy Land is incomparably
greater than those of previous generations."
Shabbat Vayakhel, 5752/1992

". . . The suggestion is the study of Torah on the topics of
Moshiach and the Redemption. For it is within the ability of Torah
to transform human nature. It is possible that one may be, heaven
forfend, 'outside' and far removed from the concept of Redemption
as far as one's own perception is concerned (as he has not yet
emerged from his own internal exile). Yet, through Torah study
in the topics of Redemption, he uplifts himself to a Redemption
state of mind, and begins to 'live' with the concept of Redemption,
amidst the realization and recognition that 'Behold, here he
comes!'"
Shabbat Balak, 5751/1991

"Although in chronological order, the advent of Moshiach will
precede the Resurrection of the Dead, special individuals will
nonetheless be resurrected prior to Moshiach's coming. First and
foremost, the Rebbe, my father-in-law, will once again enclothe
himself in a body, and return. (In reality, it makes no difference
how he comes, whether through the door, the window, or the
roof....) He will then gather all the Jewish people together and
proclaim, 'The time has come to leave Exile. Come, let us go to our
Holy Land!'"
2nd day of Shavuot, 5710/1950

"There needs to be an increase in life, through the action of
the people who proclaim 'YECHI HAMELECH! -- MAY THE KING LIVE.' For
the meaning of this proclamation is that the time has come for [the
resurrection, regarding which it is stated] 'Awake and give praise,
those who rest in the dust,' of the Rebbe, my father-in-law, the
leader of our generation, and up to and including the wakening and
giving praise of the Davidic King Moshiach!"
2 Nissan, 5748/1988

"True, we currently find ourselves in the extreme darkness of
Exile. Yet, nonetheless, since Exile is merely a 'dream' (in which
contradictions can co-exist), the current situation can instantly
be reversed, from one extreme to another. This means that we emerge
from this dream of Exile and arrive at the true reality, the actual
Redemption!. . .

"True, Maimonides explains that there is a natural order in the
process . . . However this is only if the Redemption materializes
in a normal manner. If the Jews merit, and certainly in present
times when the appointed time for the Redemption has long since
passed, we have merited that the Redemption will come instantly,
above and beyond all natural limitations!

"It is within the ability of every single Jew to bring the
Redemption right away, not tomorrow or the day after, but quite
literally today, so that at this very moment, a person opens his
eyes and sees that our righteous Moshiach is present with us in
this very House of Prayer and Study, in his physical body, down on
earth!. . .

"Some people argue that this in itself is difficult to
appreciate. It has already been many years since the leader of our
generation announced 'Immediate Redemption' and nevertheless, he
still has not come!. . .

"This question stems from being consumed with and engulfed in
the Exile frame of mind. Hence people are unable to free themselves
of this 'dream' of Exile and perceive that the true reality is
otherwise, a state of being awake, the actual Redemption!"
Shabbat Pinchas, 5744/1984

"One may wonder, 'What will the world say if a Jew performs his
Divine service . . . particularly trying to speed the Redemption?
Seemingly,' he argues, 'in order to succeed, one must take into
consideration how the world will view it.' The answer is that the
world is ready and prepared! When a Jew goes about his Divine
service properly, rising above all limitations and constraints, yet
doing so in a way that his service can be enclothed in the
vestments of nature, he will see how the world, nature, and
non-Jews are indeed aiding him in his service."
Shabbat Korach, 3 Tamuz, 5751/1991

"A question has been asked with regard to the recent statements
that the Redemption is coming immediately. Some might suggest that
it would not be so easy for this message to reach people and
convince them. People are uncertain of how their families and the
world at large will react to it. The response is that such concerns
would only be valid if the idea of Redemption was an innovation.
However, the Redemption is nothing new. Rather, all its elements
have already begun, and have already been brought down and accepted
in the physical world, the level beyond which there is nothing
lower. Therefore, it should be of no surprise when, immediately,
the Redemption arrives."
Shabbat Shoftim, 5751/1991

"We are immediately going to merit the fulfillment of the
messianic promise, 'As in the days of your Exodus from Egypt, I
will show you wonders,' with the coming of Moshiach, whose name is
'Menachem,' like the name of the Tzemach Tzedek -- may he come and
redeem us, and lead us proudly to our land. For inasmuch as the
prophetic promise, 'Awaken and sing, those who rest in the dust'
will soon take place . . . there will then be a realization of the
meaning of 'Menachem -- King Moshiach.'"
Eve of Rosh HaShanah, 5744/1984

A footnote added by the Rebbe to an edited version of a talk
after mentioning the third Chabad Rebbe, known as the Tzemach
Tzedek:

"His two names, Tzemach and Tzedek (which are the numerical
equivalent of 'Menachem Mendel') are the names of King Moshiach."
12 Sivan, 5751/1991

**********************************
* SOME OF THE REBBE'S PROPHECIES *
**********************************

Before the Gulf War, on the second night of Sukkot (October 5,
1990), the Rebbe began to quote an ancient passage from the Yalkut
Shimoni, a 14th century anthology of Midrashic litrature: "In the
year that Moshiach will be revealed, nations will challenge one
another. The King of Paras will challenge the King of Aram ... and
the entire world will panic and will be stricken with consternation
... Israel will also panic and will be confounded."

The Rebbe went on to explain that the King of Paras refers to
the present-day Iraq. The King of Aram refers to the world's
superpowers (for Aram is related to the word "rom" which means
"uplifted").

This ominous situation, however, herolds the ultimate good --
the coming of Moshiach and the final Redemption.

Acording the Yalkut Shimoni, G-d tells the Jewish people: "My
children, have no fear. Whatever I have done, I have done only for
your sake. Why are you afraid? Have no fear; the time for your
redemption has arrived!" Moshiach will stand on the roof of the
Holy Temple and proclaim, "Humble ones: The time for your
redemption has arrived!"

On December 29, 1990, just weeks before the official declaration
of war, the Rebbe stated unequivocally, that there is no safer
place in the world today than the Land of Israel. He went on to say
that no one living in the Holy Land should think of leaving at this
time. On the contrary, whoever is planning to visit the Holy Land
should go without fear and should let others know of his trip as
well, for this will raise the confidence of the Jewish people
throughout the world.

The Rebbe, of course, as he always does, based his words on the
Torah. In particular, he quoted the verse in Deuteronomy: "It is a
land constantly under G-d's scrutiny; the eyes of G-d are always
upon it, from the beginning of the year to its end."

As the world foundered in panic and consternation over the
events in the Persian Gulf, the Rebbe announced that this would be
a year when "I will show you wonders," when G-d would perform
miracles for the Jewish people. His words of encouragement and
inspiration were repeated time and again on Israeli radio and in
the newspapers. And the Rebbe called on everyone to continue with
their plans. More than one family asked the Rebbe if they should
switch the location of upcoming weddings from Israel to New York,
but the Rebbe was adamant that everything should go ahead as
planned. The weddings scheduled in Israel took place amidst great
rejoicing.

As the SCUDS flew overhead, most Israelis were calm. Not because
they were issued gas masks or sat in sealed rooms. But because they
heard the Rebbe's message on the radio, over and over again,
saying, "Israel is the safest place in the world because the eyes
of G-d are always upon it."

Thirty-nine SCUDS fell on Israel. Although there was amazingly
little damage, even more miraculous was the fact that there was no
loss of life directly from a SCUD. But in Saudi Arabia, when a
single SCUD fell on Desert Storm troops, people perished and the
damage was devastating.

Step by step, the Rebbe is showing us how to recognize the
miracles that are happening here and now. As we watch events
unfold, we can wholeheartedly say: Thank G-d for the Rebbe's
foresight and vision.

For the ultimate wonders are yet to come.

The Six-Day War

On May 28, 1967, a giant Lag B'Omer parade and rally of tens of
thousands of children from all over the New York area took place at
the World Lubavitch Headquarters. Among other things, the Rebbe
spoke about the tense situation in the Middle East and explained to
the children what they could do to increase G-d's protection of the
Holy Land. Barely a week later, on June 5, the "Six-Day War" broke
out.

In his address, the Rebbe told the children about the lesson to
be learned in connection with the state of affairs in the Holy
Land. They are currently in a situation where G-d is protecting and
bestowing His blessings and His deliverance upon them in an
increased measure so that they may emerge -- and they will emerge
-- from this situation with success.

The Rebbe told the children that they could help by learning an
extra verse of Torah, by doing another mitzvah and yet another, and
not letting any opportunity slip by in the fulfillment of mitzvot.
He also encouraged the children to influence their friends and
family to utilize all their opportunities to increase Torah study
and mitzvah observance.

As a consequence of the children's efforts, the Rebbe said that
we should see the fulfillment of the assurance in the Torah portion
read the previous day, "And you will dwell securely in your land
... and I will give peace in the land."

A cassette of the Rebbe's talk was rushed off to Israel where
copies were made and it was listened to by people all over the
trembling country.

In addition, on the Shabbat before the war broke out, the Rebbe
launched the by-now famous "Tefillin Campaign," as a safety measure
for the Jewish people in general, and Jewish soldiers in
particular. This campaign, too, is based on the Torah, for the
Torah declares concerning tefillin, "And they shall fear you" --
specifically relating to the fear that is instilled in the hearts
of the enemies of Israel as a result of the observance of this
mitzvah and particularly upon defenders of Israel to vanquish the
enemy in the course of battle.

Before and during the war, every soldier -- observant and
non-observant -- put on tefillin. And every newspaper in Israel
carried the Rebbe's telegram sent just days before the war began:
"To the leaders of Kfar Chabad and the Head Rabbi who are
privileged to find themselves among tens of thousands of Jews in
the Holy land where 'the eyes of G-d are constantly upon it' and
certainly, most assuredly 'the Protector of Israel does not sleep
or slumber,' 'G-d is on our right side' and G-d will guard them and
all of the Jewish people from now and forever. I am awaiting good
news, good in a recognizable and revealed manner, soon."

The Yom Kippur War

In the summer of 1973, life in Israel couldn't have been better.
To most, it seemed like the best of times. Israel was at "peace"
with Egypt and the financial situation in Israel was the best it
had been for a long time.

So when the Rebbe started speaking about a great danger that was
threatening the Jewish people, everyone was confused. The Rebbe
quoted the verse from Psalms, "Out of the mouths of babes and
infants You have established strength ... to destroy the foe and
avenger," and issued a call for all Jewish children to receive a
Jewish education. The Rebbe declared that this was of utmost
importance and must be implemented immediately. He asked that more
day-camps be opened all over the world and gatherings for children
be organized everywhere.

On three separate occasions during the ensuing months the Rebbe
urged there to be gatherings at the Western Wall. And in the
Rebbe's annual letter of the Sixth of Tishrei, addressed to all
Jews all over the world, the Rebbe added a footnote before it was
published. The footnote, which seemed to come from nowhere, read:
"The Metzudat David [a commentary] explains that the Jewish hand
will be superior."

And then came Yom Kippur, 1973. Anyone who was more than a mere
toddler at the time will never forget Yom Kippur of 1973. On the
Sunday after the war began, when two chasidim asked the Rebbe what
would be, the Rebbe answered, "There will be a great victory, a
victory greater than was in the previous war."

When the war was over, Israeli papers were emblazoned with the
headline, "The Lubavitcher Rebbe saw the war and its outcome." The
Rebbe, in his humility, answered with a verse from the Prophets, "I
prophesied but did not know what I prophesied."

Russian Immigration

In 1987, when the Iron Curtain was impenetrable, the Rebbe made
a startling request. He asked that settlements be built to
accommodate the tremendous influx of Russian immigrants who would
soon be arriving in Israel.

At the time, the border of the Soviet Union was virtually
sealed. It was next to impossible for Jews to leave. Yet the Rebbe
announced, "It is proper for all Jews to participate in building
dwellings in Jerusalem for the Jews from Russia who will soon be
coming out. Those who have already been appointed to head this
project should do so with great haste and energy, and this should
be the main point in their lives from now on."

In June of 1987 the Shamir neighborhood in northern Jerusalem
was born. Within the Shamir neighborhood SATEC -- the Shamir Center
for Advanced Technologies -- was established. It is a commercial
enterprise that allows highly skilled Soviet Jewish scientists and
engineers to find high-level jobs.

Two years later, in 1989, the doors of the Soviet Union suddenly
sprung open. Millions of Jews streamed into Israel. The housing
prepared for them was barely enough!

The Collapse of Communism

Well before the advent of the year 5750 (September 1989 through
September 1990), the Rebbe announced that the Hebrew letters whose
numerical equivalent equals 5750 are an acronym for "This will be a
year of miracles."

Indeed, the Rebbe spoke many times throughout the year about the
miraculous nature of 5750, including the collapse of the communist
regimes of Eastern Europe and the freedom granted to Russian Jews
to emigrate to Israel.

The fall of Communism happened almost overnight. No war, no
revolution, no bloodshed. Never in the history of the world had an
empire tumbled so quickly, so silently. The Rebbe clearly saw this
event in 1966, when he said that the victory over the "evil
rulership" will be when "tens and hundreds of thousands of Jews
will leave Russia."

*******************************
* THE REBBE AND THE PROFESSOR *
*******************************

Professor [3] Yirmeyahu (Herman) Branover has achieved worldwide
renown as an authority on magneto-hydrodynamics. Research in this
area of alternative energy technology is carried out by a very
limited number of highly trained professionals. Raised in the then
Soviet Union, Professor Branover's published research had won him
an international reputation in this field in the '60s.

Along with his work on hydrodynamics, Professor Branover has a
dynamic Jewish heart. He applied for an emigration visa to Israel,
knowing that it would mark the end of his professional career in
the Soviet Union. He was dismissed from his post at the Academy of
Sciences in Riga and prevented from continuing his research.

During this time, he was exposed to the Torah and mitzvot by
members of the Lubavitch chassidic underground. When he was finally
allowed to emigrate from the Soviet Union to Israel in 1972, he was
already fully observant.

After making aliyah, Professor Branover was in constant demand
as a lecturer, not only in his profession. He was frequently
invited to lecture on science and Torah. Campus audiences around
the globe were extremely interested to hear an internationally
renowned scientist reconcile his belief in the Torah with the
supposed conflicts emerging from modern science.

"In the winter of 1973," relates Professor Branover, "I was on a
lecture tour in the United States. Towards the end of the two-month
tour, Rabbi S., one of the shluchim, requested that I add the
University of Pennsylvania to my itinerary. My wife and I were both
weary from the constant travel, but our commitment to spread Torah
motivated us to agree.

"Shortly before the scheduled date, I was privileged to visit
the Rebbe at yechidut (a private meeting). Among other matters, I
mentioned the trip to Philadelphia. The Rebbe inquired about the
details of the program and commented: 'During your stay in
Philadelphia, do not forget to introduce yourself to a local
professor who has an interest in your field.'

"The Rebbe's statement baffled me. I was well acquainted with
the names of the American scientists involved in
magneto-hydrodynamics and I knew the universities with which they
were associated. I was certain that no Philadelphian was familiar
with my field.

"I made the trip to Philadelphia, following the busy schedule of
lectures. On the morning of my arrival, when Rabbi S. met me at the
train station, I spoke about my encounter with the Rebbe. I
mentioned the Rebbe's strange remark and added that it appeared to
be an error.

"'The Rebbe does not make mistakes,' Rabbi S. said emphatically.
'Allow me to assist you in locating the scientist.'

"Rabbi S. convinced me to visit Temple University and the
University of Pennsylvania and to check the faculties of these
institutions. After many hours of searching, we were introduced to
Professor Hsuan Yeh. It was a refreshing change of pace to engage
in a sophisticated discussion with a person who was clearly
knowledgeable in magneto-hydrodynamics.

"As we concluded our conversation, Professor Yeh said: 'In six
weeks there will be a Magneto-Hydrodynamics Energy Convention at
Stanford University in California. Although the program is already
finalized, I will insist that your name be added to the list of
lecturers. A colleague who has arrived so recently from Russia
should be given the opportunity to present his thoughts.'

"I looked at him in surprise. 'Didn't you just say that the
program was finalized?'

"Professor Yeh added with a smile, 'You see, I am on the program
committee.'

"I appreciated the professor's offer, and yet I graciously
declined, explaining that both my wife and I were anxious to return
to our home in Israel. The trip had already been extended more than
we would have liked.

"I returned to New York and we prepared to return home. Just
before leaving, I wrote the Rebbe a report of our trip to
Philadelphia, mentioning my encounter with Professor Yeh. Once
again, the Rebbe made an unexpected statement. He advised me to
reschedule my plans and to accept the invitation, for the
convention presented an important opportunity.

"My wife and I were taken by surprise by the Rebbe's response.
Despite the need to rearrange our plans, we were acquainted enough
with the Rebbe to value his advice. I called Professor Yeh, who was
happy to arrange for me to deliver a lecture.

"The significance of my participation at the convention became
clear very rapidly. I met two representatives of the Office of
Naval Research in Virginia, who had read about my work, and who
were prepared to finance further research. They added, 'We
understand that you want to establish your laboratory in Israel,
and we are willing to provide you with funds for your work there.'

"As a result, I set up a laboratory in Beer Sheva, which has
gained worldwide recognition for its magneto-hydrodynamics
research. My contract with the Office of Naval Research has been
renewed six times since that original grant. I could not have
imagined at that point how valuable and far-reaching the Rebbe's
advice had been.

"This year, 1993, marks twenty years since the Stanford
convention. My project has just been awarded a 15-million dollar
grant by the United States government to further research and
development of this energy technology."

Professor Branover frequently briefs the Rebbe on his various
research projects. In one report, he presented a very sophisticated
study built upon extensive calculations that had been prepared by
computer. As he reviewed the details, the Rebbe remarked:

"Two numbers here are inconsistent."

Professor Branover was stunned. "But all the calculations were
done by computer and the program used is based on our most advanced
theory."

The Rebbe smiled. "With all due respect to the experts, you will
see that there is an error."

In the preparation of the calculations, an incongruity indeed
had appeared. It took Professor Branover's research team six months
to locate it.

Once, before Professor Branover was scheduled to address a
conference of Jewish scientists, the Rebbe told him: "You have an
important message to communicate. Tell your colleagues that as a
scholar of solar energy you encourage every Jew to emulate the sun.

"Why is this star of such great importance? There are larger
heavenly bodies, indeed, many that dwarf the sun in size. What is
unique about the sun? It provides light and generates heat.

"There are other heavenly phenomena called 'black holes.' These
are also powerful sources of energy, but in this instance, the
energy is directed inward. The 'black holes' pull everything, even
the energy they emit, to themselves.

"The sun, by contrast, generously gives of itself to the entire
planetary system. So, too, a Jew must radiate ahavas Yisrael --
love for a fellow Jew. After all, if the sun was only capable of
heating its own mass, who would have paid any attention to it?"

Professor Branover also is active in developing programs of
Jewish education and professional training for Jews in the former
Soviet Union and for Russian immigrants to Eretz Yisrael. In the
course of these activities, he has been chosen by the Rebbe for
several missions.

"In the spring of 1985, I received word from the Rebbe's office
that the Rebbe requested to speak to me," relates Professor
Branover. "Of course, I arrived at '770' [Eastern Parkway, the
address of Lubavitch World Headquarters], as soon as I could. The
Rebbe greeted me and informed me of his desire that I relay his
forthcoming message to various persons in Russia. Not in my wildest
dreams was I prepared for the content of the message.

"The Rebbe unraveled before me the precise details of the
unbelievable change that was going to take place in Russia. With
Mikhail Gorbachev's ascent to power, a new era of openness and
freedom would begin, the Rebbe prophesied. Waves of Russian Jews
would emigrate to Eretz Yisrael. Two years afterwards, in
expectation of this wave of immigration, the Rebbe initiated the
plan to build a special housing project in Jerusalem for the new
immigrants.

"To say that I was stunned is quite an understatement. If I had
heard these words from anyone but the Rebbe, I would have dismissed
them as fantasy. As such, I was neither surprised nor offended when
various people in Russia whom I contacted by phone were skeptical.
'Are you sure this is exactly what the Rebbe said?' they asked
again and again. And, may I add, these people were not unfamiliar
with the Rebbe. Quite the contrary, these were his own people who
were directing the Lubavitch underground activities in Russia. It
was simply that the Rebbe's prediction seemed so far-fetched.

"In the spring of 1985, newspapers such as The New York Times
and the New York Post had published front-page articles predicting
that Gorbachev's government would follow a communistic hard line.
This was felt even more powerfully by people who were living in the
then Soviet Union.

"When I related the response from Russia to the Rebbe, he
requested that I contact them once again, assuring them that these
changes would indeed take place.

"The realization of the Rebbe's words is now history. In 1992,
when Mikhail Gorbachev visited Israel, I was introduced to him, and
I told him and his wife Raisa what the Rebbe had said seven years
earlier. Gorbachev was stunned. 'When I assumed power in 1985, I
myself had no concrete plan for the future. I would like to meet
this man who knew so much about the direction that my country and I
would follow.'"
_______________
3. Adapted from the book, To Know and To Care Vol. 1 (Brooklyn,
NY: Sichos In English, 1993).

**************************
* A DEADLINE AND A DREAM *
**************************

The first of September (1996) was the date by which everything
had to be in place. The goal was to complete the new Chabad House
that would provide a home away from home for the Jewish students of
Rutgers University. The five-million-dollar building was almost
complete, ready to house two dozen women, provide kosher meals to
thousands of students a week, and serve as the center for the
vibrant Jewish life that Chabad has built at Rutgers.

But Rabbi Yosef Carlebach, director of Chabad of
Middlesex/Monmouth counties in New Jersey, had a problem. In
mid-July he was still eight hundred thousand dollars short of the
money he needed to raise to complete the project and get the
building open.

By the end of August, the situation looked pretty bleak, indeed.
The contractor had walked off the job and wouldn't return unless
more money was forth coming. However, there was still a good deal
of work left to do before the certificate of occupancy could be
issued, and the mortgages could be obtained.

Rabbi Carlebach had called Rabbi Leibel Groner, from the Rebbe's
secretariat, who had spoken at the groundbreaking ceremony of the
Chabad House, for some more leads. But Rabbi Groner was unable to
help.

Rabbi Carlebach continued to pray at the ohel twice a week, as
he had been doing all summer. The frustration and stress of the
situation were taking its toll, as was evidenced late one Sunday
afternoon when Rabbi Carlebach, in the midst of making calls to
solicit funds, fell asleep with the phone cradled in his hand.

Moments, or maybe hours later, the shrill of the telephone
jarred him awake. It was Rabbi Groner, asking how much money was
needed to complete the mikvah in the Chabad House.

"Forty thousand dollars," was Rabbi Carlebach's response.

Rabbi Groner called back Monday morning with good news.

A New York business man might be able to help. Time was of the
essence so Rabbi Carlebach called the man, Mr. A., and offered to
drive into New York, pick him up, and bring him out to the
uncompleted Chabad House. Mr. A. agreed and Rabbi Carlebach picked
him up the following afternoon. Mr. A. sat quietly for the whole
drive.

As Rabbi Carlebach showed Mr. A. around the Chabad House, he
seemed to be only mildly interested. However, when the two men
entered the area designated to be the mikvah, Mr. A. just stood
there and stared. Five minutes passed, then ten. After fifteen
minutes, Rabbi Carlebach told Mr. A. that he would be upstairs
saying the afternoon prayers. When Rabbi Carlebach finished
praying, he heard Mr. A. downstairs, talking excitedly to someone
on his cellular phone.

Later, on the way back to New York, Mr. A. explained his strange
behavior to the rabbi.

Mr. A. was born in Russia, and his family had moved to Israel
when he was a child. There was very little money, and Lubavitch in
Israel had taken care of the family's material and spiritual needs.

As a young man Mr. A. had come to the United States and started
a business. From the moment he had set foot in this country, he had
maintained close contact with the Rebbe. Every step he took, in his
business or personal life, he kept the Rebbe informed. When he had
started his business, he had written to the Rebbe for a blessing
and had committed himself to observe the mitzvah that requires
giving one tenth of one's earnings to tzedakah (charity). Over time
his venture had been blessed with success.

A few years ago, his wife had given birth to a baby boy weighing
only two pounds, three ounces. The doctors were not certain that
the baby would survive. If he did he might never see or speak. Mr.
and Mrs. A. had asked the Rebbe for a blessing for their son. The
Rebbe assured them that the baby would develop normally, and he
did.

In the past few months, however, the doctor noticed that the
boy's muscles weren't developing correctly, and that he might not
walk properly. Mr. A. went to the ohel to pray for the health of
his son.

Soon afterwards, he had a puzzling, yet fascinating dream. He
dreamt that he approached the Rebbe for a blessing, and the Rebbe
told him to follow the instructions of Rabbi Groner and then to
come back to the Rebbe. Rabbi Groner told him to go and inspect a
mikvah. In his dream he watched himself go to a mikvah, and, seeing
that it was still not completed, grew more and more angry,
wondering how could it be that here in America there could be a
mikvah that cannot be finished?

When Mr. A. awoke, the dream came back to him in bits and
pieces. When he recalled the dream in its entirety, he checked with
his accountant and ascertained that, in accordance with his
customary charitable giving, he had fallen behind in the amount of
$40,000. Mr. A. told his brother about the dream and that he was
going to Rabbi Groner. If Rabbi Groner told him of a mikvah that
needed somewhere around $40,000 to be completed, he would know his
dream was true.

While Mr. A. was in his office, Rabbi Groner called Rabbi
Carlebach. When Rabbi Groner turned around to tell Mr. A. that the
mikvah needed $40,000 to be completed, he saw Mr. A.'s face turn
white.

And now, when Mr. A. arrived at the Chabad House, he was amazed
to find that the unfinished mikvah looked exactly as it had in his
dream.

On Thursday Mr. A. brought Rabbi Groner the $40,000. Although it
was 10:30 p.m., Rabbi Groner called Rabbi Carlebach who immediately
drove into New York to pick up the money.

The next day, Rabbi Carlebach had a meeting with the contractor
and the workers at 8:00 a.m. The meeting did not go well and the
contractor got up to leave. Rabbi Carlebach stopped him on his way
out and handed him the envelope, containing the money, from Mr. A.
When the contractor realized that there were immediate funds
available, and, even moreso, after hearing the story of the dream,
he ordered his workers back to the site and before long the work
was completed. The following Friday, the city officials and the
board of health gave the building a "thumbs up." That night,
hundreds of Jewish students were able to celebrate Shabbat in the
new Chabad House.

********************
* IT HAPPENED ONCE *
********************

by Rabbi Bentzion Grossman

To those who live in Jerusalem, Rabbi Eliezer Chaim Streicher is
a familiar figure. Rabbi Streicher is known for his unwavering
trust that G-d will come to his assistance when he is in need. Many
stories are told about the salvation that came to him in the nick
of time.

As a young man, Reb Eliezer Chaim learned in a yeshivah, where
he devoted himself to Torah study day and night. After he was
married he began to search for a job, but could not find a suitable
position.

After consulting with several friends, they all told him that it
was easier to make a living in the United States, he decided to
move to New York. The young couple relocated to the Borough Park
section of Brooklyn, and Reb Eliezer Chaim found a job without
difficulty.

However, with every passing day, Reb Eliezer Chaim found that he
had less time to devote to his beloved Torah studies and spiritual
pursuits.

It became obvious to Reb Eliezer Chaim that he had to make a
decision about where his life was going. He was hesitant to leave
his job and return to full-time Torah study. And yet...

With these thoughts going through his mind, Reb Eliezer Chaim
went to pray in a small shul that he did not usually frequent. He
came across a book that spoke about the importance of trusting in
G-d. A person who has trust, the author wrote, can be assured that
G-d will never abandon him wherever he goes.

The book made a strong impression on Reb Eliezer Chaim, and he
decided that from that day on he would rely on the beneficence of
G-d. With his wife's approval, he left his job and began to study
Torah full-time in a kollel -- a yeshivah for married men.

His faith and trust in G-d, that the Al-mighty would provide him
with his livelihood from another source, was unshakable.

A few years passed and the Streichers decided to return to
Israel where Reb Eliezer Chaim would continue to devote his life to
Torah study. Indeed, G-d took care of the Streichers. Several
friends helped them out and within a short time of their return to
Israel the couple was settled in a furnished apartment in one of
the religious neighborhoods of Jerusalem.

Years passed. Reb Eliezer Chaim found that he missed the
insights and guidance of the Rosh HaKollel, dean of the kollel, in
New York. He decided that he would travel to New York for a short
while to see him. Again, G-d provided Reb Eliezer Chaim with the
necessary airfare in the merit of his trust.

Before leaving, however, Reb Eliezer Chaim consulted with his
wife, in accordance with the Talmud's instruction to obtain one's
wife's permission before embarking on a journey. She agreed, but on
one condition: that he buys clothing for their children when he was
in Borough Park. They sat down and figured out how much it would
cost: $600 would cover everything. Of course, Reb Eliezer Chaim had
not a penny in his pocket when he set off, but he agreed to his
wife's condition; G-d would somehow provide.

Weeks passed, during which Reb Eliezer Chaim was happily and
dilligently studying in his former kollel in New York. In a few
more days he was scheduled to return to Israel; the clothing for
his children had been completely forgotten.

On the last day of his visit he suddenly recalled the promise he
had made to his wife. There were only a few hours left before he
would have to take a taxi to the airport. But what could he do? He
still had no money; even if he had, he would have been hard pressed
to fit a shopping spree in. Reb Eliezer Chaim put his trust in G-d
and continued to learn.

Then the door to the study hall opened suddenly and Reb Eliezer
Chaim looked up from his book. At that hour the study hall was
empty, except for the man who was rapidly walking toward Reb
Eliezer Chaim.

The stranger was smiling; from the way he was dressed it was
obvious that he was a Lubavitcher chasid. The man came over and
placed his arm on Reb Eliezer Chaim's shoulder. Reb Eliezer Chaim
greeted him warmly and asked, "What can I do for you?"

"The Lubavitcher Rebbe gave me this envelope and told me to
deliver it to the person I would find sitting and learning in this
study hall." The man handed Reb Eliezer Chaim the envelope and
left.

When Reb Eliezer Chaim opened the envelope a small cry escaped
his lips. Inside was exactly $600.

Needless to say, Reb Eliezer Chaim made it to the airport on
time, his suitcases bulging with the clothing for his children that
his wife had indicated.

Years later, Reb Eliezer Chaim was still shocked by what had
occurred. "Why are you so surprised?" I asked him when he told me
the story. "Hadn't you seen with your own eyes time and time again
how G-d came to your assistance whenever it was necessary?"

"Never mind that G-d knew about my problem and came to my aid,"
Reb Eliezer Chaim replied. "That I can understand. But how did the
Lubavitcher Rebbe find out?"

********************
* MOSHIACH MATTERS *
********************

"The future Redemption will apply not only to Israel, but to the
whole world as well. In preparation for this Redemption, therefore,
action needs to be taken so that the world at large will be ready
for such a state.

"This is to be achieved through the efforts of the Jewish people
to influence the nations of the world to conduct themselves in the
spirit of the verse that states that G-d 'formed the world in order
that it be settled' (Isaiah 45:18) in a civilized manner, through
the observance of their seven mitzvot."
The Rebbe, 5743/1983

*

In light of the about, this is, once again, the perfect
opportunity to consider the implications of the Rebbe's campaign to
disseminate, among non-Jews, the knowledge and observance of the
Seven Noachide Laws.

The nations of the world were given a Divine code of conduct,
the Seven Noachide Laws, which consist of six prohibitions against:
adultery, murder, robbery, idolatry, blasphemy, cruelty to animals
-- and one positive command, to establish a judicial system.

The Rebbe has encouraged his emissaries around the world to meet
with governmental officials and heads of state to sign
proclamations, encouraging the study and observance of the Seven
Noachide laws. Governmental proclamations, however, are not the
Rebbe's only concern.

An important part of the Jew's task is to see to it that all
people, not just Jews, acknowledge G-d as Creator and Ruler of the
world and to therefore conduct themselves according to the Seven
Noachide Laws. Each and every Jew has an important role to play in
this task. But how can this be accomplished?

When a Jew conducts himself properly in all areas of his life --
business, recreation, family, and religious -- he will
automatically influence the people around him. When the nations of
the world see Jews acknowledging G-d as Ruler of the world, through
prayer and by following His commandments, they, too, will come to
realize the importance and truth of G-d's omnipotence.

*

For more information about The Seven Noachide laws, go to:
http://www.torah4blind.org/noahide.htm

**************************************
* TIME FOR UNITY; TIME FOR STRENGTH! *
**************************************

The most important principle in the Torah is the protection of
Jewish life.

It's more important than Shabbat, more important than holidays,
even fasting on Yom Kippur.

Right now, in Israel, and everywhere, Jews must stand together
in unity and do whatever possible to protect Jewish life.

The Rebbe teaches that there are TEN important MITZVOT we can do
to protect life. See what you can do:

1) AHAVAT YISROEL: Behave with love towards another Jew.

2) LEARN TORAH: Join a Torah class.

3) Make sure that Jewish children get a TORAH TRUE EDUCATION.

4) Affix kosher MEZUZOT on all doorways of the house.

5) For men and boys over 13: Put on TEFILLIN every weekday.

6) Give CHARITY.

7) Buy JEWISH HOLY BOOKS and learn them.

8) LIGHT SHABBAT & YOM TOV candles. A Mitzvah for women and
girls.

9) Eat and drink only KOSHER FOOD.

10) Observe the laws of JEWISH FAMILY PURITY.

In addition the Rebbe urges that:

Every Jewish man, woman and child should have a letter written
for them in a SEFER TORAH.*

Every person should study either the Rambam's Yad Hachazakah --
Code of Jewish Law -- or the Sefer HaMitzvos.

Concerning Moshiach, the Rebbe stated, "The time for our
redemption has arrived!" Everyone should prepare themselves for
Moshiach's coming by doing random acts of goodness and kindness,
and by studying about what the future redemption will be like. May
we merit to see the fulfillment of the Rebbe's prophecy now!
_______________
*. There are several Torah scrolls being written to unite Jewish
people and protect Jewish life.

Letters for children can be purchased for only $1. Send your
Hebrew name and your mother's Hebrew name plus $1 to:
"Children's Sefer Torah," P.O. Box 8, Kfar Chabad, 72915, Israel
or via the Internet, at: http://www.kidstorah.org

********************
* A CALL TO ACTION *
********************

The Rebbe's slogan is: "The main thing is the deed." We
therefore present from the Rebbe's talks, suggestions of what we
can do to complete his work of bringing the Redemption.

Preparations for the High Holidays:

"Our Sages state that thirty days before a holiday, we should
learn the laws pertaining to it. It is already less then thirty
days before the holidays of Tishrei begin and in this context, it
is necessary to mention the importance of providing Jews with their
holiday needs so that they will be able to celebrate Rosh
HaShanah [4] and the holidays that follow in the manner stated in
the Bible, 'Eat sumptuous foods and drink sweet beverages and send
portions to those who do not have them prepared.'"
The Rebbe, Elul, 5750/1990
_______________
4. This year, Rosh HaShanah is celebrated on Thurs., Sept. 21, 2017
and Friday, September 22, 2017.

***************************************
* In loving memory of *
* HORAV CHAIM YEHUDA KALMAN *
* Ben Horav Avrohom Yehoshua *
* Marlow *
* head of the Bet-Din (Rabbinical *
* Court) of Crown Heights, *
* Passed away, on Friday Morning, *
* 20 Sivan, 5760 (June 23, 2000) *
* *
* May His Soul Merit Eternal Life *
***************************************

*******************************
* THE WEEKLY SHABBAT CALENDAR *
*******************************

** JEWISH WOMEN AND GIRLS LIGHT SHABBAT CANDLES **

*******************************************************
* FOR LOCAL CANDLE LIGHTING TIMES: *
* consult your local Rabbi, Chabad-Lubavitch Center. *
* or: *
* http://www.candlelightingtimes.org/shabbos *
* *
* FOR A FREE CANDLE LIGHTING KIT: *
* contact your local Chabad-Lubavitch Center. *
* *
* FOR A LISTING OF THE CENTERS IN YOUR AREA: *
* http://www.chabadworld.net *
*******************************************************

>>>> Times Shown Are for Metro NY - NJ <<<<

FRIDAY, AUGUST 25, EREV SHABBAT PARSHAT SHOFTIM:
* Light Shabbat Candles, [5] by 7:21 p.m.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 26, SHABBAT PARSHAT SHOFTIM:
* On Shabbat following the afternoon prayer, we read Chapter 1
of Pirkei Avot -- Ethics of the Fathers.
* Shabbat ends at NIGHTFALL, at 8:19 p.m.
_______________
5. The Shabbat candles must be lit 18 minutes *BEFORE* sunset.
IT IS PROHIBITED AND IS A DESECRATION OF THE SHABBAT TO
LIGHT THE CANDLES *AFTER* SUNSET.

*********************************************
* May the Shabbat candles, of the millions *
* of Jewish women and girls around the *
* world, illuminate our way, until we very *
* soon see the fulfillment of G-d's promise *
* (as it is written in the Midrash *
* (Yalkut Shimoni, Beha'alotecha)): *
* "If you will observe the kindling of the *
* Shabbat lights, you will merit to see *
* the lights of the redemption of the *
* Jewish people," speedily in our days, *
* NOW! *
*********************************************

***************************************
* "LET THERE BE LIGHT" *
* - The Jewish Women's Guide *
* to Lighting Shabbat Candles *
* http://www.torah4blind.org/ltbl.htm *
***************************************

***********************************
* LAWS OF SHABBAT CANDLE LIGHTING *
* FOR THE BLIND *
***********************************

Edited by Rabbi Y. K. Marlow O.B.M.*

* A blind woman who lives alone should light her Shabbat
candle(s) with a blessing.

* If she is married to a non-visually impaired person, HER
HUSBAND SHOULD LIGHT THE SHABBAT CANDLES WITH THE BLESSING.

* If she is eating and lighting in the company of others who
are non-visually impaired, and they lit the Shabbat candles,
she should light her own Shabbat candle(s), BUT WITHOUT SAYING THE
BLESSING.

* (If at all possible, she should not be the last one to light
the Shabbat candle(s), so that she can be absolved by the latter's
blessing.)
_______________
*. Head of Bet-Din (Rabbinical Court) of Crown Heights.

************************************
* SHABBAT CANDLE LIGHTING BLESSING *
************************************

* First light the candles. Then spread your hands out around the
candles, drawing your hands inward in a circular motion three times
to indicate the acceptance of the sanctity of Shabbat. You then
cover your eyes and recite the following blessing:

BO-RUCH A-TOH ADO-NOI E-LO-HEI-NU ME-LECH HO-OLOM
A-SHER KI-DE-SHO-NU BE-MITZ-VO-SOV VE-TZI-VO-NU
LE-HAD-LIK NER SHEL SHA-BOS KO-DESH.

Translation:

Blessed are You, L-rd our G-d, King of the universe,
who has sanctified us with His commandments, and
commanded us to kindle the light of the holy Shabbat.

* Uncover your eyes and behold the Shabbat lights.

* The time of lighting is considered especially propitious for
praying to G-d for health and happiness. The prayer is readily
acceptable because it is offered during the performance of this
great mitzvah of lighting Shabbat candles.

CAUTION:
The candles must be lit 18 minutes *BEFORE* sunset. IT IS
PROHIBITED AND IS A DESECRATION OF THE SHABBAT TO LIGHT THE
CANDLES *AFTER* SUNSET.

*******************************************
* MOSHIACH INFORMATION HOTLINES *
* http://www.torah4blind.org/hotlines.htm *
*******************************************

******************************************
* MOSHIACH IN THE AIR - ELECTRONIC MEDIA *
* http://www.torah4blind.org/e-media.htm *
******************************************

********************************
* LIVING WITH MOSHIACH *
* Weekly Digest About Moshiach *
********************************

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