Weekly Dvar Torah: 30 Days of Reflection on 30 Years Since Gimmel Tammuz – The Rebbe’s Enduring Love and the Response
Reflecting on 30 years since Gimmel Tammuz, brings forth a profound exploration of love, leadership, and spiritual continuity within Lubavitch. The Rebbe’s presence continues to resonate deeply amongst all Jews, and Chassidim in particular, inspiring unwavering commitment and action. We must take a moment to delve into the enduring essence of the Rebbe-Chassid relationship, which is grounded in love and guided by spiritual devotion.
There is a poignant exchange that illustrates this love. A French guest once remarked to the Rebbe, “Why do they all love you with such passion? All over Paris I meet your admirers, but it’s not just admiration, I see tremendous love, I find it somewhat excessive!” The Rebbe responded with characteristic humility and insight, saying, “My love for every Jew is also excessive, perhaps that’s why they send me their love in return.”
Central to understanding the Rebbe’s enduring influence is the concept of love—love that transcends physical boundaries and temporal limitations. The Rebbe himself exemplified this boundless love, expressing deep concern for every individual’s well-being, whether material or spiritual. His genuine care knew no bounds, extending to all corners of the world, reaching even those who never had the privilege of meeting him in person, or even those who never heard of him.
The Rebbe’s love is not merely sentimental; it is transformative. It has inspired countless individuals to dedicate their lives to his teachings and mission. The Rebbe’s call to action, to elevate the world and prepare it for the Messianic era, resonated profoundly with his followers. Thousands embraced lives as Shluchim (emissaries), spreading Jewish teachings and values to far-flung communities, embodying the Rebbe’s vision with zeal and devotion.
But what sustains this remarkable dedication, especially among those born long after Gimmel Tammuz? It is the enduring presence of his love and teachings, perpetuated throughout generations. The Rebbe’s spiritual essence remains palpable, guiding and inspiring through the timeless wisdom he imparted. His teachings continue to resonate with relevance, offering profound insights into living a purposeful Jewish life in a rapidly changing world.
The Rebbe’s physical absence did not diminish the intensity of his spiritual leadership; if anything, it liberated it from earthly constraints. Freed from physical limitations, the Rebbe’s influence expanded, touching hearts and minds across continents. His followers, young and old alike, find themselves drawn to his teachings, finding solace and direction in his words, as relevant today as they were ever in the past before Gimmel Tammuz.
Just like the long lines on Sundays, when thousands would flock to 770 to get a dollar and blessing from the Rebbe, visiting the Rebbe’s Ohel has become a pilgrimage for countless seeking blessings and spiritual connection. The outpouring of devotion at the Ohel mirrors the deep reverence and love the Jewish people and Chassidim in particular hold for the Rebbe. It serves as a testament to the enduring bond between the Rebbe and his followers—a bond rooted not in physical proximity but in spiritual resonance and unwavering commitment.
To understand the Rebbe is to recognize his exceptional spiritual stature. He embodied the ideal of a Tzaddik—a righteous individual whose every action, even the most mundane, was infused with holiness and purpose. His life is a testament to the harmonious integration of the physical and spiritual realms, demonstrating that true spirituality transcends earthly confines.
For Chassidim, the Rebbe is more than a historical figure; he is a living presence in their lives. His teachings continue to inspire acts of kindness, devotion to Torah study, and a profound sense of communal responsibility. The love for the Rebbe extends beyond admiration; it manifests as a deep-seated commitment to fulfill his vision of a world illuminated by goodness and holiness.
The Rebbe’s leadership is characterized by love—for Hashem, for Torah, and for every individual Jew. This love serves as the bedrock of Chabad philosophy, uniting Jews from diverse backgrounds under a shared commitment to spiritual growth and communal upliftment. It is this love that sustains the Rebbe’s leadership, ensuring that his teachings remain a guiding light for generations to come.
It has been 30 years since Gimmel Tammuz and the Rebbe’s impact continues unabated. His teachings resonate as powerfully as ever, guiding his followers with love and wisdom. The Rebbe’s leadership is not confined to the past but thrives in the present, empowering individuals to lead lives of purpose and meaning. As we reflect on his life and teachings, we are reminded that love transcends time and space, uniting us in a shared mission to make the world a better place. Through our actions and devotion, we honor the Rebbe and perpetuate his vision of a world redeemed through love, Torah, and mitzvot.
But after all is said and done, 30 years is more than enough. We must do whatever we can so that this Gimmel Tammuz we will celebrate face to face with the Rebbe, after the revelation of Moshiach, Now, Now, Now!!!
Have a Shabbos of Love and Inspiration,
Gut Shabbos
Rabbi Yosef Katzman
