Good Evening Rabbi Schneerson – Pirsum Rishon

“When you get back to Paris, please make a farbrengen [Chassidic gathering] and give over to all the participants the questions and answers that went on in your Yechidus [meeting].”

The following is a unique audience that took place between the Rebbe and a Jew from France. Yosef, a Sorbonne professor, was a ba’al teshuva, returnee to Judaism, newly exploring his heritage and bursting with questions about Chabad and the Rebbe himself. Special thanks to the Rebbe’s secretaries and to the editorial staff of the Avner Institute. to learn more about the Rebbe Visit: www.inspiringageneration.org

Sukkos – Shoes or No Shoes, Security Still Belongs to G-d

There was once a Melamed (Cheder teacher) whom a well-to-do industrialist engaged to serve as the village resident tutor for a period of time (Zman). It so happened that during this same period the prosperous businessman built himself a magnificent mansion.

During the housewarming festivities all the household members were, as can be expected, in highly celebratory and cheerful spirits. When the owner of the new home noticed that the visiting Melamed was quite caught up in the joyous festivities as well, he turned to him in surprise: “Why so much joy? After all, you are only here temporarily!”

The Melamed, who might have been of humble means but not of humble mind, quickly glanced back at the Bal-Habayis (owner/employer) and rejoined: “And you Sir? Do you think you’re here forever? You too, are only here temporarily!”

Much attention is paid these days to our nation’s security. Ever since September 11, 2001, focus on securing the homeland has taken-on new significance and urgency.