Weekly Dvar Torah: Jewish Pride – Proud to be a Jew
In 1927, amidst the oppressive regime of Soviet Russia, the Frierdiker Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchock Schneerson, the sixth Rebbe of Chabad, stood as a beacon of unwavering Jewish pride. His imprisonment for spreading Yiddishkeit marked a pivotal moment where he defiantly refused to submit to the authorities. Incarcerated in the dreaded Shpalerke dungeon, known for instilling fear in its captives, the Rebbe steadfastly spoke Yiddish when addressed in Russian and defied commands, earning him beatings but not breaking his resolve.
The Rebbe’s arrest on the 15th of Sivan and subsequent confinement until the 3rd of Tammuz epitomized his conviction that as a Jew, he answers only to Hashem. Despite facing a potential death sentence which was commuted to exile for 10 years, and then reduced further to 3 years, he emerged a free man on the 13th of Tammuz, after less than ten days of exile in Kostrama. All this is a testament to his unwavering faith and refusal to yield to tyranny, which ultimately led to victory and freedom.
This unyielding spirit mirrors the resilience of Jews throughout history. From Abraham, who defied Nimrod’s decree and emerged unscathed from the fiery furnace of Kasdim, to the Jews in Egypt, who stood tall against the Egyptians’ attempts at subjugation and ultimately gained freedom celebrated in Passover, Jewish history is replete with examples of steadfastness and triumph.
During the Purim story, Mordechai’s refusal to bow to Haman’s authority led to Haman’s downfall on the very gallows intended for Mordechai, a victory celebrated annually. Similarly, during Chanukah, Jews under Antiochus’ rule resisted assimilation and maintained their faith, leading to the rededication of the Temple and the celebration of light overcoming darkness.
Inquisitions and pogroms sought to eradicate Judaism, yet Jews persisted, preserving their heritage under threat of torture and death. The Holocaust, perhaps the darkest chapter, saw Jews led to gas chambers yet defiantly singing Ani Ma’amin, affirming their faith even in the face of death. Post-war, Jewish communities worldwide were rebuilt with resilience, preserving traditions and thriving against all odds.
The Soviet Union’s suppression of Jewish identity, highlighted by their focus on the persecution of Chassidim with connections to Rabbi Schneerson, underscored their fear of Jewish pride. For 70 years, the Soviet regime feared Rabbi Yosef Schneerson, known as the Frierdiker Rebbe, and anyone associated with the Lubavitcher Rebbe even decades after his departure from Russia. This fear highlighted the Rebbe’s influence as a formidable threat to their authority and ideology.
Despite attempts to break the morale through exile and oppression, Jewish communities persisted. Today, remnants of former Gulags host thriving Jewish communities, a testament to the enduring legacy of Jewish leaders like the Frierdiker Rebbe.
In America, the Rebbe’s leadership emphasized Jewish pride and resilience, fostering a vibrant Jewish identity despite assimilation pressures. His teachings have inspired a generation to embrace their heritage proudly, contributing to the strength of Jewish communities worldwide.
The Rebbe’s message resonates today as over 6000 Shluchim continue his work, spreading Jewish pride and community globally. From former Soviet territories to distant corners of the globe, these emissaries uphold the Rebbe’s legacy, reinforcing the message that Jewish survival and strength derive from unwavering faith and commitment to their heritage.
In Israel, amidst challenges and conflicts, Jews stand united in defending their rights and heritage proudly, recognizing their miraculous existence and divine protection. This spirit of resilience and faith ensures that Jewish communities worldwide not only survive but thrive, respected and supported by allies who recognize the strength of their convictions.
The legacy of the Frierdiker Rebbe is a testament to the enduring power of Jewish pride and resilience. His example continues to inspire Jews globally to stand tall, assert their rights, and preserve their heritage, ensuring that the proud Jewish spirit remains unbroken and undefeated against all adversities.
Have a Proud Resilient Shabbos,
Gut Yomtov, Gut Shabbos
Rabbi Yosef Katzman
