Weekly Dvar Torah: 30 Days of Reflection on 30 Years Since Gimmel Tammuz – Now What?
As Gimmel Tammuz came and went, we embarked on 30 days of reflection, grappling with the significance of this solemn anniversary—30 years since the passing of the Rebbe. Across generations, we engaged in Farbrengens, meditated deeply, and shared personal stories, weaving together memories of those who witnessed the Rebbe’s presence and the yearning of those who only know him through his legacy.
The elders reminisced, recounting moments spent in the Rebbe’s aura, lamenting what they miss profoundly, and imparting their cherished memories to the younger generation. The youth, in turn, expressed a poignant longing for an experience they never had—a deep yearning to have stood before such a figure, whose influence transcends time.
Together, we shed tears of longing, wishing to see and hear the Rebbe once more. The young eagerly sought stories, craving firsthand accounts from the elders, day after day. Conversely, the elders admired the dedication of the younger ones, who, despite never having seen the Rebbe, exhibit a fervent commitment to his teachings, sometimes even surpassing their own.
What unites us all is our profound sense of loss and our deep connection to the Rebbe, integral to our very essence.
Now, as we face the day after, we find ourselves reflecting on the unexpected trajectory of the last 30 years. We never anticipated that the Rebbe’s impact would not only endure but strengthen with time. The Rebbe’s foresight, echoing that of his predecessor, ensured continuity in guiding us, even in his physical absence. His teachings resonate powerfully today, proving his enduring influence.
In the Hayom Yom, a compilation of daily teachings, the Rebbe imparts wisdom on how to navigate Gimmel Tammuz and its aftermath. Despite being written in 1943, its messages remain remarkably relevant today. On Gimmel Tammuz itself, the Rebbe discusses the Jewish sigh, the Krechtz—a heartfelt lament over material concerns, which the Rebbe identifies as a form of true Teshuva. We too sigh deeply on this day, mourning the Rebbe’s passing, a pain felt both physically and spiritually—an appropriate Teshuva that, the Rebbe teaches, will hasten the coming of Moshiach.
On the 4th of Tammuz, the Rebbe expounds upon the potential of a solitary Chossid in a city to achieve extraordinary impact. Reflecting on a letter where he expresses his own longing and that of his Chassidim to be united, the Rebbe underscores the significance of communal unity in fulfilling our Divine mission. He stresses how a single devoted Chossid can transcend natural limitations and influence an entire city, all in the merit of our revered Rebbes. The Rebbe’s teachings highlight the mutual yearning shared between himself and his Chassidim to be together, emphasizing that collective effort enhances effectiveness. Thus, following Gimmel Tammuz, our yearning to see and be united with the Rebbe intensifies, as we strive to fulfill his teachings and bring about a world aligned with his vision.
On the 5th of Tammuz, the Rebbe reminds us that despite our pain and longing, a Chossid must forge ahead and focus on their mission. Emphasizing the importance of creating a vibrant Jewish environment, the Rebbe teaches that when Chassidim dedicate themselves to illuminating their surroundings with Torah and Chassidus, we fulfill our part, and G-d, in turn, does His. This mutual commitment ensures that G-d will provide for all our needs—both material and spiritual—as we strive to bring about positive change in the world. This principle highlights the profound partnership between our actions and Divine intervention: by fulfilling our mission, we pave the way for G-d’s blessings and the fulfillment of His promises, including the ultimate redemption. Thus, our efforts resonate with G-d’s plan to reunite us with the Rebbe, moving forward towards a future illuminated by his teachings.
Thus, as we commemorate 30 years since Gimmel Tammuz, we are reminded not only of our loss but also of our enduring connection to the Rebbe and his teachings. Through collective reflection, dedication, and action, we carry forward the Rebbe’s legacy, striving for a world illuminated by his vision—a world where the ultimate redemption, heralded by Moshiach, becomes a reality.
May we merit this swiftly, in our days. Amen.
Have a Shabbos of Connection and Commitment,
Gut Shabbos
Rabbi Yosef Katzman
