By COLlive reporter
“Many turn to seek guidance and ask, ‘What does the Rebbe say?’ What should we say to ourselves and those around us in times like these, according to the words of our Rebbe.”
That question is raised in a new letter issued by Agudas Chassidei Chabad International, the umbrella organization of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement.
Acknowledging the war Israel is currently fighting against its Arab enemies from Gaza, Lebanon, and beyond, it addresses, “To our brethren, all the children of Israel, may they live in peace and blessings.”
“It has been two weeks since our brethren residing in the holy land of Israel find themselves in a state of war,” they wrote. “Many sons and daughters of Israel have been slaughtered by lowly murderers. Many of our brothers and sisters have been kidnapped and are held captive by those who harbor hostility towards Israel. Together with all of Israel, we pray for the swift release of the captives the full recovery of the wounded, and send heartfelt condolences to the grieving families.
“The entire people of Israel, in the Holy Land and worldwide, follow with anxious hearts and concern what is happening in the southern and northern regions of the land. Many of our brothers, sons and daughters of Israel, and the general populace stand bewildered and confused, wanting to know what each of us should do to be of assistance; how to strengthen one’s spirit and that of one’s household and surroundings, and how to fortify the people of Israel and the armed forces.”
They go on to suggest 10 things that Lubavitchers worldwide should be doing:
1. Not to despair.
First and foremost, do not despair or be confused. We must know that despite the impending danger, we are the children of the Almighty, and He is our Father. He watches over and guards every one of the children of Israel.
2. Strengthen bitachon.
We must bolster our trust that the future will surely be good, both for the entire people of Israel and for each individual. The teaching of our Rebbes is well-known: “Think good, and it will be good.” Positive thinking creates a positive reality, visibly and tangibly.
3. Do Mivtzoim.
The entire people of Israel are like one body, and the actions and well-being of one limb assist in the health and strengthening of all other limbs. Therefore, we must strengthen and do Mivtzoim, going above and beyond the norm, especially in strengthening the mitzvah of Tefillin. Similarly, in the observance of the Shabbos candles and the observance of the Mezuzah.
4. Say Tehillim.
To recite three chapters of Tehillim every day, especially Kapital 130. Instead of fasting, give Tzedaka (the value of two or three meals) for the strengthening of Torah scholars or Torah institutions.
5. Children’s rallies.
Organize gatherings for children encompassing Torah study, Tefillah, and Tzedaka, based on the verse: “Out of the mouths of babes and sucklings You have established strength… to still the enemy and the avenger.”
6. Increase Torah.
Strengthen and increase Torah study and the observance of the Mitzvos, which are the true defense of the people of Israel. Seize the general awakening to reinforce and encourage further dedication to Torah and Mitzvos.
7. Letter in a unity Torah.
Every boy and girl should acquire a letter in a Torah scroll of the children of Israel. Those who reach the age of Bar or Bat Mitzvah and onwards should buy a letter in the Sefer Torah Hakloli.
8. Daven for Moshiach.
Cry out and seek the true and complete redemption. Stir up the difficulties of exile and cry out, “Ad Mosai?” Daven for the coming of Moshiach.
9. Focus on simcha.
Daven and do Mitzvos out of joy, “Serve God with joy,” for the segulah of joy breaks barriers, especially the barriers of exile.
10. Thank you, Hashem.
Over the years, our Rebbe spoke about the need to thank Hashem for the miracles He has performed for us. Through this, Hashem “gives and gives again,” and the publicizing of miracles will hasten the redemption. He also spoke of the need to talk about the greatness of the Jewish people.
They conclude the letter with the hope that all “trials and concealments” should be removed and that Hashem should be like a shepherd protecting his flock.
What about making SHOLOM in Lubavitch!?? Why is that not part of the list? We need Achdus in our own communities, starting right here in CH. This will surely be helpful for our Brothers and sisters in Israel! We want moshiach now!
Great idea. Wonderful addition.
If I would guess/assume, these chosen deeds to do is
A) from the Rebbes suggestions Slichos & talks.
B) שווה לכל נפש, means it’s possible and equal for each and every individual.
Whereas your suggestion should absolutely be done as an additional step to bring safety to the current matzav.
Besuros Tovos
Did anyone think of perhaps buying a letter in the Torah for each of the captives in gaza?
Anyone know how to make this happen?
words on the war!
why aren’t the politicians getting a clear united message from the entire chabad/shluchim of the entire world?
Jem put together beautiful videos of the Rebbes directives during war. How do we get the message to the government in Eretz Yisrael?
I was told that these videos were past on across the idf and also to a higher position in they’re circle.
It would be best if someone who knows a rabbi/shliach/friend of bibi netanyahu to personaly show him these videos and help him get the message.
Besuros tovos
Arm yourself. Directive of the torah.
Get trained in person. Watching videos is not the way to train.
What about uniting to do the last mission that the Rebbe gave us? We cant afford to be divided. Lets unite to be ready to greet Moshiach and prepare the world
Thank you for this important guidance