Special Delegation Presents “Tanya HaSholeim” to the Rachmastrivka and Skulen Rebbes in Yerushalayim
Special delegation had recently the privilege of meeting the Rachmastrivka and Skulen Rebbes in Yerushalayim. The delegates presented both Rebbes with the newly released monumental work, the multi-volume set of “Tanya HaSholeim,” published by Kehot Publication Society.
The delegation was led by R’ Moshe Gelbstein of Kfar Chabad, a world-renowned authority in the field of Kashrus, alongside R’ Yaakov Gelbstein of Ashdod. They conveyed greetings on behalf of the Tanya HaShalem Institute — a select panel of distinguished Talmidei Chachamim and Mashpichim who devoted twenty consecutive years to crafting this comprehensive commentary on all 53 chapters of Likkutei Amarim, fulfilling the holy vision of the Rebbe.
Deep Appreciation in Rachmastrivka
The Rachmastrivka Rebbe listened with visible emotion as the delegation recounted the history behind the project—from the Rebbe’s initial notes on Tanya nearly a century ago and his early preparations for its publication in the United States, through decades of painstaking work by a dedicated editorial team led by the renowned R’ Yoel HaKohen Kahn, known as “Reb Yoel,” the chief Chozer (oral scribe) for the Rebbe.
Offering his heartfelt blessings, the Rachmastrivka Rebbe expressed his wish that this work be warmly embraced throughout Klal Yisrael as a daily staple of study. He remarked that when such a new light in Torah is revealed, it serves as a clear herald of the approaching Geulah Shleimah.
Warm Memories with the Skulen Rebbe
During the meeting, the Skulen Rebbe meticulously examined the various sections of the book, repeatedly expressing his admiration: “Zeier reich! Zeier shein!” (“So rich! So beautiful!”).
The conversation naturally turned to the historical bonds between Lubavitch and Skulen. The founding Skulener Rebbe, Rabbi Eliezer Zusia Portugal, and his son and successor, Rabbi Yisroel Avrohom Portugal resided in Crown Heights near Beis Chayeinu (770). They were frequent participants at the Rebbe’s Farbrengens and were privileged to enter for private Yechidus on numerous occasions.
The Ninth Children’s Sefer Torah
The discussion also touched upon the upcoming, momentous Siyum of the Ninth Children’s Sefer Torah, celebrating the completion of all 304,805 letters purchased by tens of thousands of Jewish children across the globe, in accordance with the Rebbe’s sacred initiative.
Both Rebbes bestowed rich blessings upon the organizers, participants, and all the children and their families celebrating this special occasion on the auspicious day of Chaf Menachem Av—marking the 82nd Yahrzeit of the Rebbe’s father, Rabbi Levi Yitzchak Schneerson.
The delegation recalled a historical story: In Sivan 5742 (1982), when a Chabad delegation visited the first Skulener Rebbe (comprising Rabbi M. Mentlik, Rabbi D. Raskin, and Rabbi S.M.M. Botman), the Skulener Rebbe registered his entire family in the Second Children’s Sefer Torah—just months before his passing on 29 Menachem Av. After submitting a report of the visit to the Rebbe, including the Skulener Rebbe’s insights on a verse in Tehillim, the Rebbe cited that very explanation during the following Shabbos Farbrengen.
