By Rabbi Efraim Zaltzman
Director, Chabad of Kingsborough
Rabbi, Young Israel of Brighton Beach
There has been some talk and discussion relatively recently, of people expressing themselves that they don’t understand Chassidus as much as they would like to, and in a way that it impacts their lives. This is a valid concern. And Boruch Hashem several individuals have addressed this issue, whether in writing or audio classes, may they be blessed.
On 19-20 Kislev, I would like to introduce you to a new lecture series called Chassidus Explained. That I will BE”H be posting on COLlive.com.
The goal of these classes is to explain Chassidus well, in simple English, so that the concepts are easy to understand. These classes are geared for everyone. From beginners to advanced, and everyone in between. Including women.
The Rabbe has Spoken on various occasions about the importance of women to learn and teach Chassidus to other women as well, as you can see here:
– Hisvadius 5748, vol. 1, page 227.
– Igros Kodesh, Previous Rebbe, vol. 4, page 186.
– Igros Kodesh oh the Rebbe, volume 6, page 259.
– Toras Menachem, volume 11, page 64, Shabbos Beshalach.
These classes were made with a consideration of your time. We’re all very busy today, Boruch Hashem. Therefore I try to keep these classes to 30 minutes or less with a minimum of repetition of previously explained ideas. Also, I make a point to always bring sources; the name of the Sefer and the page number.
It’s a great responsibility to present these Chassidus ideas properly and therefore, if I’m not sure of the meaning of a certain concept, I discuss it with Rabbi Sholom Ber Cohen, Mashpia in Montreal for many years, who understands Chassidus very well. As the Mishna says “do not judge yourself.” (al tehi don yechidi.)
Generally there are two categories in Chassidus, “haskala” i.e. the philosophical and lofty concepts, and “Avoda” which usually translates itself in avodas hatfilah. For several reasons I decided to post the classes on avodas hatfila first. I hope you will gain much benefit from these classes.
We all know the great importance of spreading the wellspring of Chassidus to every Jew, and some concepts to (non-Jews as well. See rebbe’s farbrengen, 19 kislev, 5743, chapter 14-15.) Just to mention few sources, on 10 Shvat 5711, the Rebbe said that the inner dimension of any Shlichus is hafatzas hamaayanos to every Jew. In igros kodesh vol. 15, page 26, the Rebbe calls hafatzas hamaayanos ikar ha’ikrim. In Vol. 16, page 144, the Rebbe writes that its been years that he’s pleading and directing people to be active in hafatzas hamaayanos and he’s very pained that he hasn’t been notified of such activity. On 19 kislev 5752, Sefer Hasichos page 169, the Rebbe explains that teaching Chassidus, which is the knowledge of Hashem, brings the redemption which will be the time when the world will be filled with the knowledge of Hashem.
I hope that these classes will inspire many to inspire many others with the light of Chassidus. Ko-osi Mar do malka meshicha NOW!!
VIDEO: Introduction
Subscribe to Rabbi Zaltzman’s classes here.
Thank you!