Published February 21, 2010
Once, at the Purim Se’uda, the Rebbe of Gur began discussing the Megila. “The entire beginning of this book is very strange”, he said. First, we learn of a Persian king who holds a large party. Then we find out about his wife, who refuses to listen to him and is removed. Then we read of a beauty contest. All this time, we have no idea where all of this is heading. What does this have to do with the Jewish people? Only later, when the pieces all fit together, do we understand the relevance the opening section to us.
“In the same way”, the Rebbe continued, “when the time of our redemption draws near, all types of events will occur which we will be unable to understand. However, once Mashi’ach comes, we will suddenly understand that everything was related to our redemption.”
~~~
A fire broke out in Slobodka. All the houses were made of wood and the roofs of thatch, and there was distinct danger that the entire town would go up in flames. Immediately, all the yeshiva students were brought in to work on containing the blaze. Hour after hour they worked in the heat and the smoke, until they were finally able to put the fire out.
Then the students all gathered around R’ Yerucham Levovitz, to hear from him what they were to do next. “My students, “he told them, “we haven’t learned Torah the entire day. Now we must go and learn.”
Grimy and with soot in their hair, the students returned to their benches, where they spent a few hours before they washed up and went to sleep.
Each of them gained a new appreciation of the importance of Torah study under all circumstances.
~~~
R’ Yechezkel of Shinova, the son of R’ Chaim of Sanz, wanted to collect money for a worthy cause. Before doing so, though, he asked his father’s permission. “I agree,” said R’ Chaim, “provided that that doesn’t result in animosity against Jews.”
“What do you mean, father?” asked R’ Yechezkel.
“What I mean,” said R’ Chaim, “is that as you go from one person to another and seek a donation, you may feel inwardly that this person should have given more, that person should not have turned you down, and so on. This can lead you to animosity. I therefore am only willing to let you go out to collect money if you resolve in advance that no matter what you are given or are not given, you will not bear any grudge against any person.”
Shmuel Himelstein’s Words of Wisdom, Words of Wit; A Touch of Wisdom, A Touch of Wit; and “Wisdom and Wit” available at your local Jewish bookstore
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