Yahrzeit of Rabbi Menachem Mendel of Vitebsk

Vitebsk in Belarus in 1910. 40 % of its population was Jewish.

Photo: JewishGen

Today and tomorrow (Thursday) we are celebrating Rosh Chodesh Iyar (beginning of the new jewish month of Iyar). This Rosh Chodesh is also the Yahrzeit of the famous chassidic Rabbi Menachem Mendel of Vitebsk.

Why I write about Chassidut ?

B"H

Yesterday I had a discussion with an academic artist. A woman who studied art, has a degree and collects any books on art or travels the world in order to see art collections / exhibitions.

I told her that I write about the haredi world, Judaism and, in particular, about Chassidut.

Why, she asked ?

Because I am searching for myself. I once joined chassidic society and failed due to too much pressure I put upon myself. Now I am looking for the reason why I failed, try to fix something and maybe find a way back. This is why I write.

Don't we just all study a certain subject in order to find ourselves, she asked. I, for instance, do find myself in art and this is why I am obsessed with the subject. Each of us has his own way to find himself.

Yahrzeit of Rabbi Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev and the Chatam Sofer

B"H

Yesterday, on 25th Tishrei, two important Yahrzeits (memorials) took place:  

Rabbi Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev as well as the Yahrzeit of the Chatam Sofer.

Rabbi Levi Yitzchak used to be a student of the Baal Shem Tov successor the Maggid of Mezritch and was known to be the Jew's attorney. Any time a Jew in Berditchev did something wrong, Rabbi Levi Yitzchak justified him positively before G - d. The Rabbi saw the good in every Jew and he was a person, we severly miss in our days. At least since Rabbi Aryeh Levin of Jerusalem passed away a long time ago.

The Chatam Sofer was very famous too but not necessarily in chassidishe circles. He rejected anything new. Why should we change our ways when our ancestors successfully dealt with the same behaviour, laws and tools ?

Until today, the Chatam Sofer remained an important figure in Mea Shearim, as there, nothing has to change and new ways of life are banned. Chassidut Dushinsky entirely built on the theology of the Chatam Sofer and there are at least two Synagogues / Batei Midrash in the Batei Hungarin (Mea Shearim).

Should I be a Member of something ?

B"H

There are plenty of Yeshivot and women's seminaries in Jerusalem and those who are on a search won't find any lack of offerings. The only things which needs to be done is choosing the right studies.

Basically there are three groups offering programmes:
The national religious, Chabad as well as Breslover Chassidim and the Litvaks (litvishe Haredim).

Last Shabbat, my host in Mea Shearim had different guests including two girl's groups studying two different ideologies. Some of the girls are studying at a litvishe programme in Bnei Brak and other girls are studying at a Breslover programme in Jerusalem.
One of the Ba'alat Teshuva (becoming religious later in one's life) raised the question if a Baal Teshuva should start with Torah and Halachot first. Learning the basics of one's own religion before moving on, hence making a decision in what direction to go to.
Let's say a secular Jews decides to study religion or become religious, he should start with the basics. The Torah Parasha of the week and daily Halachot.

Why study all this spirituality and leaving out Halachot ? It doesn't help if I know how to "fly through spiritual spheres" but, on the other hand, I am unable to keep the most important laws on Shabbat ? The "chassidic" girls including two from Chabad responded that there are Baalei Teshuva who can only connect to their own religion through Chassidut. In fact, especially Chabad taught me about the different soul roots of every Jew. Our souls all come from different sources in the Upper Worlds and thus, we are different from each other. If my friend can only connect to Judaism by learning Halacha and stressing this particular subject, it doesn't mean that I have to be the same. Of course, I am also studying Halacha and know the rules, however, I can even more enjoy everything by entering a spiritual part into my studies. There are plenty of spiritual / kabbalisitc reasons why we keep this and that Halacha.

Some of us love Jewish history, Jewish philosophy, Torah, the Prophets, Mussar (Ethics), Talmud, whatever. And each one of us has to find his preference and concentrate on what helps him most connecting to his Creator.

The litvishe girl didn't give up and said that if someone new to the religious life is jumping from this subject to that subject, from this community to that community, in the end he will be without a special frame and without any fundament. It is extremely important to first build a firm foundation, hence Halachot and Torah, and then move on to special subjects and preferences.

I must admit that the litvishe had a point. There should be some level of stability first and then someone can look around and decide on what he would like to concentrate. What life he wants to lead. If chassidic, litvish or something else.
But, on the other hand, is it always vital finding a community ?
If I may speak for myself: I don't have a firm community and love to do Synagogue shopping. Mainly chassidic and I know some people in different communities. When I go I decide where to on my way. I am not the type of going into the same Synagogue over and over again where people even have their name stuck on the seat.

Real Chassidim mostly go into their own Synagogue and let me tell you, many of the Toldot Aharon women have their name stuck onto the window sill at the Ezrat Nashim (women's side). However, the name tugs are from the high holidays and don't count throughout the year, I was told by one of the Toldot Aharon woman.

There is something about having a community but there is also something about Synagogue shopping. And why not taking over some of the different customs ? If someone is happy with that, why not ? Countless Israelis are not necessarily a community member but either go into a Synagogue nearby or keep moving from one to the next.

Highest Kavanah at the Kotel

B"H

This picture published in an Israeli haredi forum shows a Chassid praying with high Kavanah (concentration) at the Kotel (Western Wall). The person publishing the photo explains that the Chassid had been praying in the same position for twenty minutes without even moving a bit. Amazing !

Urgent: Rabbi Wanted …

B"H

G – d ? Who is G – d ?

Okay, He does exist and rules the world. On the other hand, He is far away and this is very positive. He can remain far away because we on earth have other plans such as power, money and good reputations.

"G – d, if we need you we will let you know. But not now and in the meantime, don't bother us and see you later".


No, I am not talking about secular Jews having such an opinion about G – d. I am talking about Rabbis. Rabbis whose task it should be a religious one. Get Jews closer to Judaism, have a religious Torah life, inspire and give advice. Apparently a perfect rabbis' world and rabbis fulfilling their tasks are mostly an unrealistic dream or illusion.

Judaism teaches that with every new generation, we are loosing a little more wisdom and understanding. In Talmudic times we still had such great Rabbis as Rabbi Akiva, Rabbi Gamliel or Rabbi Me'ir; later on we had the Rambam, the Ramban, Rabbeinu Gershom, the Spanish Kabbalists, the Maharal of Prague, Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch all the way to Rabbi Moshe Feinstein. Not leaving out the chassidic masters as well as the Vilna Gaon.
But what is left today ?

Of course, today we also have some great Rabbis but let's admit: Nothing seems to be anymore as it used to be.

Today, many chassidic Rebbes only live off the reputation of their ancestors. They, themselves, are not such great Geonim and Talmidim Chachamim anymore. However, in our days, it seems to be enough that someone is the son or grandson of a Zaddik or simply born into a famous rabbinic family. But this is not my subject today and I am going to write about this issue a little later.

Not only the chassidic world is facing some problems; no, particularly the litvishe world and its rabbis. The Vilna Gaon and Rabbi Moshe Feinstein died a long time ago and many times we wish that they should come back and lead us because, at many places, there is only one thing counting in the Israeli litvishe world, and that is called politics.

Rabbi Eliyashiv, the great spiritual leader of the Israeli Litvak movement is the best example. It was him supporting Rabbi Jonah Metzger when the new Chief Rabbi was about to be elected. Hardly anyone else considered Metzger as a suitable candidate, as he is anything but a specialist in Halacha. It is known that he doesn’t know too much about Judaism. At least not as much as a rabbi should. Metzger is a very ordinary person with ordinary skills. The only thing he apparently knows very well is flattering around celebrities and thus, getting appointed into high positions. Rabbi Eliyashiv didn't care so much about this fact but enjoyed his power over the future Ashkenazi Chief Rabbi.

Metzger's predecessor Rabbi Israel Lau wasn't too much different from him. Several times, Lau was accused of taking bribery and sexually molesting other women. But concerning Lau, his supporters and he himself always like to stress that he is a Holocaust survivor rescued by his older brother from the Buchenwald concentration camp. Nevertheless, Lau is no halachic Gaon but he is politically correct and has connections. Not too much to G – d but to Israeli politicians.

Last Fridays' edition of the Israeli daily MAARIV published a long article about the present Ashkenazi Chief Rabbi Jonah Metzger. Already in the past, many women complained about him as he tried to sexually abuse them. Not only women but also young boys. Leading Sephardi rabbis tried to interfere and never planned to agree appointing Metzger as Chief Rabbi of Israel. In the end, even Rabbi Ovadiah Yosef agreed because he didn't want to cause a dispute with Rabbi Eliyashiv.

But what about us, the "ordinary" Jews ? Is there a rabbi we can trust and who is independent ? Who only depends on Torah and G – d and doesn't only have his power and policies in mind ?

Chassidic rabbis don't recognize the Israeli Chief Rabbis (Ashkenazi and Sephardi) as such. Every chassidic group has its own Rebbe and internal rules and neither Metzger nor Amar are qualified for giving advice to Chassidim. And by the way, the chief rabbis' positions are more political than religious anyway. However, since the times of Rabbi Shlomo Goren and Rabbi Avraham Shapira, only rabbis without much Torah knowledge were appointed.

Where are all the great Rabbis today ?
It seems that we really have to look for them with binoculars, as they have become so rare. Which Rabbi can we trust and who doesn't only think about himself ? Sometimes you think that you found the perfect trustworthy rabbi and later on you find out that he is just a crook as many others. The famous crook – example for Germany is the "Landesrabbiner" from Stuttgart Netanel Wurmser.

But who cares ? Are we surprised ?
No, as already the Vilna Goan stated that in the times before Meshiach, the majority of the rabbis will be corrupt (Erev Rav). Unfortunately, we have to wait for Meshiach in order to get some better rabbis.

Despite all the negative aspects, there are actually very good rabbis. No matter if national religious, litvish or chassidic. Not to forget mentioning the rabbis of the Edah HaCharedit who sometimes seem to be a little extreme but halachically right.

A chassidic rabbi I personally respect (although I have never spoken to him) is the Dushinsky Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Zvi Dushinsky.

The Rebbe's Survival

B"H

I am very aware of touching an extremely difficult and painful subject and I have to be careful not to cause any misunderstanding. But, on the other hand, there are always people such as Neo – Nazis and anti - Semites who twist around words and use anything they can for their own stupid and vicious propaganda. However, today anyone can find anything on the Internet and thus twist it around as much as he likes.

Furthermore, I have to admit that I haven't had the time so far to deal with the matter more intensively. Unfortunately, I have to say, because the issue itself interests me a lot. But what I did was talking to some Gerer Chassidim.

There is no doubt that especially the chassidic population of Eastern Europe suffered tremendously during the Holocaust. It wasn't only a matter of personal survival but the existence of whole chassidic dynasties was at stake. And chassidic groups such as Belz, Vishnitz, Gur, Zanz – Klausenburg, Satmar or Bobov (those are only a few examples of many) were lucky to keep their groups alive.

Nevertheless, there is another issue which, unfortunately, is not discussed so many times. Of course, there is some literature but, as I said before, it takes time to do intense research. If you prefer serving the net instead, you are able to find details. The only problem is that I cannot confirm the claims stated on the Internet.

The question arises how chassidic Rebbes dealt with the Holocaust. Did all or, at least, the majority tell their followers to escape Europe ? Were there early warnings or did some Rebbes ignoring the upcoming danger ?
Different religious Jewish sites accuse the former Belzer Rebbe, Rabbi Aharon Rokeach, of ordering his Chassidim to stay in Europe.

I have been dealing with Rebbe Aharon Rokeach for quite a while because I am writing about his flight from the Gestapo in order to put the article into my German blog. And because I have been dealing with the subject a bit, I cannot really believe the accusations but, at the same time, I am not denying that they might be true.

Fact is that the former Belzer Rebbe Aharon Rokeach suffered tremendous personal losses during the Holocaust. He lost his son, Rabbi Moshe Rokeach, who was burned alive in a Synagogue by the Germans. Furthermore, the Rebbe lost his brother, Rabbi Shalom of Opatov (Apta), who was hiding in a forest and eventually died of starvation. Rebbe Aharon himself only succeeded in the last minute to escape Eastern Europe and head for Palestine. Thus, the existence of Chassidut Belz was guaranteed.

The Gerer Rebbe at the time had it much easier. Chassidut Gur and the Rebbe were an important figure in Polish Jewry and the Rebbe could leave for Palestine. Other chassidic groups were not that lucky.

Did chassidic Rebbes leave their Chassidim in order to safe their own lives ?
This is a very hard and painful subject to touch. Some Gerer Chassidim once told me that today, Chassiut Gur consists of countless Chassidim who joined the group only after the war. Most of the original Gerer Chassidim (about 100,000) were murdered by the Nazis. The Gerer stressed that the Rebbe had escaped the slaughter but when I asked about the Chassidim who had remained in Poland, they remained silent.

But did or do the Chassidim see the escape of a Rebbe as a coward act ? What was more important ? The survival of an individual or the group's survival ? And if, for instance, the Belzer Rebbe hadn't escaped, would there still be a Chassidut Belz today ? Honestly, I am glad not to have to make such decisions as the Rebbes to.

As far as I know, there is no questioning the matter within the present chassidic groups. Maybe there has never been and the followers succeeded in considering everything as fate. Instead the chassidic groups concentrated on building up their communities after the Holocaust but still being aware of the tremendous losses they had suffered.

After all those years we still remain with the question: What is more important ? The individual or the survival of a group ? The answer is that there is no perfect answer.

Scream Out !!!

B"H

Months ago I used to disappear in the masses. When I came to a chassidic Tish, some chassidic women spoke to me because I asked some questions. That's it. Nothing further. Walking through the door, enjoying the Tish, occasionally asking some questions, leave. Nothing else.

But in the meantime, chassidic women start recognizing me. Especially some from the chassidic group of Toldot Aharon. Countless times I went to their Tishes and spoke to people. Recently I had long and rather intense conversations with some of their women at a Tish. And don't even ask to how many different women I spoke when I went to Rebbe David Kahn's grandsons wedding. Additionally I went to their Shacharit prayer on Shabbat. So, of course, people start recognizing me and last Shabbat, right after Shacharit, another woman started talking to me who later turned out to be a family member of one of the most distinguished rabbis in Chassidut Toldot Aharon.

Two things have been bothering me lately.
The first thing is that during the week I mostly wear pants.
So, what if someone of the Chassidim recognize me ?

In Jerusalem, and I suppose anywhere else in haredi society as well, you are being judged by your clothes. A woman wears a skirt and long sleeves. That's it and there is no further discussion about it. If she does go out in pants, then she is secular. She must be secular because otherwise she wouldn't do so.
And here we come to a point which really bothers me. However, I can complain as much as I like, there is no way of changing anyone's opinion. This I know very well. Too well.

Not that I am constantly walking through haredi areas and putting myself into the danger of being seen. However, once a week, I do have to pass Ge'ulah and there is no way around. Maybe I could walk through Bar Ilan Street but this would be too far off.

Every Tuesday at about 8.15pm, I walk through Strauss Street down Yechezkel. Rabbi Mordechai Machlis in the Maalot Dafna neighbourhood gives a Shiur. And every Tuesday night, walking through Ge'ulah in pants turns out to be Gehinnom. Wherever I go, I have to watch out if I know someone. Two weeks ago I was standing at a red light at Kikar Shabbat and right across stood a Toldot Aharon woman I know. I immediately recognized her because she just looks like one of my aunts. She was busy talking to some girls and didn't see me. And I was busy hiding. Last night, almost the same happened.
I feel like everyone is staring at me.

You could say that before I go, I should change my clothes. What's the big deal ?

The only thing is that I am not coming from home but from somewhere else and thus don't get changed.

You could claim that it is high time for me to make up my mind and decide what I want. I have messed around enough and should pull myself together and get ready for some kind of a return into the haredi world.

Yes, that's true, but at the moment, I am somehow unable of pulling myself anywhere. And I have no idea why.
It might be fear of doing the same mistakes as before and eventually ending up in a new terrible crisis.

You could also claim that I could still change my clothes at the place where I come from. Don't they have a restroom or something ?

Yes, and this claim I accept and will handle it just like this next Tuesday.

So far, I solved the Tuesday issue. At least temporarily.

Another thing bothering me very much is that I haven't told the Toldot Aharon that I write on the Internet. I have told anyone else: Karlin - Stolin, Dushinsky, Vishnitz, Belz, Gur, with Kretchnif I am on a serious way and Toldot Avraham Yitzchak (one member). Actually I am planning much more with Toldot Avraham Yitzchak.

However, so far it has never turned out with any Toldot Aharon woman, informing them of what I am doing. There hasn't just been a perfect opportunity yet. Sometimes I was about to tell but at the last moment, I simply couldn't say anything.

Other Chassidim and some friends of mine said that I just have to wait for the right opportunity and this is what I have been doing so far. However, any time I go there, I feel like I am exploding.
I really want them to know because I am not the type of playing games with them or anyone else.

_______________

For anyone of you not being familiar with Jerusalem:
The Maalot Dafna neighbourhood is right behind Ge'ulah / Mea Shearim.

What makes one a Zaddik (Righteous) ?

B"H

Not only that I am unable to make up my mind about joining a chassidic group; but even if so, which one would be on the top of my list ?

As I have mentioned before, I am not a group person at all. I don't run with the crowd but always keep my own opinions and ideas.
All the years being among Chassidim, I could not say which Chassidut I prefer and which one I cannot stand. It is quite obvious that the Chassidim from different groups have their particular mentality and behaviour. This I cannot explain too well to an outsider but after a while, you simply notice the differences. I give you Chassidut Belz as an example, and hope not to offend the Belzer now. However, Belz is a great example.

Other Chassidim say the following about Belz:
The Belzer are only into their money. That's important to them.

When you go to the Tish of the Belzer Rebbe in Kiryat Belz / Jerusalem, you see hundreds of Chassidim serving Rebbe Yissachar Dov Rokeach anxiously. Once I arrived a little early and the Rebbe hadn't entered the hall yet. Chassidim were walking up and down, talking, whatever. Suddenly someone announce that the Rebbe is coming and then you should have seen the Chassidim running to their places. It was worse than when a general is coming to visit an army unit. I have never seen this before.
On Shabbat, the Belzer Chassidim all wear their best. The black shoes are shining like brandnew. However, if you only know them from the Tish, you notice a certain way of behaviour and even a special way of walking. One might call it elegant but others call it arrogant. There is a certain mentality among them I simply cannot explain. You have to see it yourself. Nevertheless, if you know Belzer Chassidim a little better and on a more personal basis, you very often get a completely different impression.
So far, I only have positive experiences with Belz but I do still notice this particular kind of behaviour when I go Tishing.

A few weeks ago I told a Chassid (NOT Belz) that acquaintances of mine want to join a certain chassidic group because they love the Rebbe. The Chassid smiled and said: "So, what if the Rebbe dies and if they don't like the successor ? What then ? They switch again ?"

These are exactly some of my reasons why I wouldn't join a chassidic group although I am very attached to Chassidut. But taking over a certain group behaviour, loving only one Rebbe and accepting only his ideas and Halachot (Psak Halacha) is just not for me. One of my biggest problems is seeing a chassidic Rebbe, it doesn't matter from which group, as a Zaddik (a righteous). I do agree with the Baal Shem Tov about the Zaddik concept. However, Rabbi Elimelech of Lejansk (in his book "Noam Elimelech") is already far beyond my Zaddik understanding. It was Rabbi Elimelech of Lejansk (1717 - 1786) who extended the original Zaddik concept and said among many other things: "When the Zaddik does great things he clothes himself into Ruach HaKodesh (a kind of Holy Spirit)".

Especially the Chozeh (Seer) of Lublin, Rabbi Yaakov Yitzchak Horowitz (1745 - 1815), added more aspects to the Zaddik concept. I am not listing all his ideas and teachings at this point, as it is a vast subject, but only mention a few.

According to the Chozeh, the Zaddik is higher than any ordinary Jew (Am HaAretz). It is the Zaddik's prayer which could bring Meschiach and the Zaddik elevates our material world to the higher spiritual worlds. The Peshis'cha movement with Rabbi Yaakov Yitzchak of Przysucha (Yiddish: Peshis'cha) didn't agree to that concept. Instead the Rabbi of Przysucha (1765 - 1814) claimed that a Zaddik (a Rebbe) should rather help everybody else becoming a Zaddik and not separating himself or considering himself as too special.

When I look at the historical background and look at chassidic Rebbes today, I am not sure if all the concepts don't rather sound too exaggerated. Maybe I am sounding like a Litvak now but I cannot help it. First of all, I always have the Chabad concept of a Zaddik in mind. When I am saying Chabad, I mean Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi and not all the Meschiach mess today.

In his "Book of TANYA", Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi considers the Zaddik as a person who has totally overcome his Yetzer HaRah (negative side in oneself). A concept, I personally like very much.
Although there are many different ideas about how a Zaddik should be, I am asking myself if all the so - called Zaddikim today, hence the Rebbes of chassidic dynasties, are all real Zaddikim and have overcome their Yetzer.

I am rather conservative and dare to claim that real true Zaddikim are extremely rare. Things are simply not the same anymore as they used to be hundreds or thousands of years ago. And I don't agree calling any chassidic Rebbe today a Zaddik. To me, a Zaddik must be an extraordinary person and shouldn't be only Rebbe and therefore called Zaddik. Not everyone inheriting his Rebbe position must be necessarily a Zaddik.

People familiar with the writings of Rabbi Yehoshua Heshel of Apta (1748 - 1825) and his book "Ohev Israel" probably know that the Apter Rebbe said that a Zaddik didn't choose his position by himself but was placed into it from Heaven.
But what about all the chassidic Rebbes ? Were they really placed into their position from Heaven ? In a way YES, as nothing happens in this world without G - d.

In other words, I don't see all the present or even some former chassidic Rebbes necessarily as Zaddikim. Many of them might do great things but doing good deeds and keeping Mitzwot doesn't turn one into the greatest Zaddik. Although Rabbi Nachman of Breslov saw himself as the "Zaddik HaDor - The Righteous of his Generation", he also taught that in a way, everybody has the ability of becoming a Zaddik himself.

To me a chassidic Rebbe is more an authority who I do respect. He can be a great person and very knowledgeable but nothing beyond it. A great person with lots of charisma, that's it. Would this be so bad ? Why should he automatically be a Zaddik ?

I could not cling to a Rebbe or agree to everything he decides. There are also other opinions and people. And as the Chassid I spoke to said: "What if Rebbe dies and I don't like his successor ?"

Sometimes at the chassidic Tishes I am really asking myself where G – d is. Everybody around me says "The Rebbe, the Rebbe, the Rebbe", and everyone, myself included, looks at the Rebbe.
Nevertheless, shouldn't we think of G – d as THE most important one and not the Rebbe ? At the Tishes one might get the impression that there is only a Rebbe and no one else.

There are times when someone like me is better far off by not making a final decision and, instead, remaining an outsider. I couldn't make anything final but admire people who can.

Chaseneh in Vishnitz

B"H

Whoever is in Bnei Brak today (Monday) and wants to participate in a great wedding, should definitely go to Kiryat Vishnitz. Chassidut Vishnitz Bnei Brak is celebrating a great Chaseneh.

A great - grandson of the previous Rebbe, Rabbi Yehoshua Hager, is getting married. If you are not in the area but still in Israel, don't miss the opportunity going to the Sheva Berachot (until next Monday).

So far, I haven't had the chance to get to know Vishnitz much better. However, for the past few weeks, I have been talking to a Vishnitzer Chassid and he explained me a lot about the group.
In Jerusalem they mostly live in a certain part of Sanhedria, and I asked the Chassid if they don't have a chassidic Tish here from time to time. The Tish is mostly in Bnei Brak but I was told about the "Botte". The Botte is a Vishnitzer custom, a gathering of Chassidim in order to sing and dance.

It is high time for me going more to Beit Shemesh and Bnei Brak.
Beit Shemesh is not a problem, as I just got very friendly with a chassidic family who moved there. But in Bnei Brak I don't know people yet. However, once I go there on a regular basis, I will get to know some. I really don't want to miss out Sadigora, Zhvil, Skver, the Satmarer of Rebbe Aharon Teitelbaum and the Shomrei Emunim.

For Vishnitz fans:
The Monsey - Rebbe, Rabbi Mordechai Hager, is coming to Israel after Pessach. He is going to hold and Tish and the Vishnitzer Chassid I know will get me in.

Kiryat Vishnitz in Bnei Brak





Vishnitz Synagogue in Bnei Brak





Satmar Synagogue in Bnei Brak

Being with Chabad

B"H

In my religious German blog I wrote a huge article on Sue Fishkoff's book about the Chabad Shlichim.

Especially in Germany, Chabad has to face plenty of challenges, as local litvishe rabbis see them as a great competitor, and my goal was, to explain further details to the Germans. Not every Chabadnik is a Meshichist and there are many good people among Chabadnikkim.

When you see the title of Sue Fishkoff's book "The Rebbe's Army", one might think that the author is going to tell us all the Chabad secrets. But in the end, she does not but rather admits that she was impressed visiting all the different US - Shlichim. Why not ?

For secular Jews, Chabad definitely has something to offer. Especially when you are traveling and cannot find kosher food or a Shabbat meal. Chabad is just everywhere. Katmandu, Zaire or Brussels.

Almost eight years ago, I didn't get a place in my German Jewish community for the Pessach Seder. "Members only" and I wasn't an offical member because I never signed up. No membership, no Pessach Seder and no Mazzot. In the end, the Mazzot I bought in Frankfurt and the Seder I spent with Chabad in Brussels. It was great and I met nice people.

The first time I came in touch with Chabad was in August 1996. I was invited at Chabad in the Old City and somehow got stuck with their Shiurim (classes). Actually I had no idea what they were talking about. Tanya, Neshamot, Sparks, the Breaking of the Vessels, the ARI, etc. The classes started somewhere in the middle as other participants were already more advanced. Only after a while, I got an idea, as I was also studying at home.

In Israel, I spent another few Pessach Seders with Chabad. In Jerusalem as well as in Safed. For anyone interested: No, I wasn't brainwashed and only asked if I want to become a member. I said: "NO".

The problem started when I announced that I am also looking into other chassidic groups. Then the rabbi was upset and offended. Chabad is the only group having something to offer. Something intellectual.

Very true, as already the founder, Rabbi Shneur Zalman of Liadi, stressed intellect. And when you look at other chassidic groups, intellect is not the most important issue but emotions.
"Why is Satmar such a closed group ?" I was asked by Chabad. Because they have nothing to offer and are afraid that the members are running away. I didn't really agree to this idea.
Then I bought the "Likutei Moharan" as well as "Rabbi Nachman's Stories", and the rabbi was totally offended. I would buy the wrong books.

After a while I quit going to the Shiurim. Not because I didn't like it anymore but simply because I wanted to go on in life. I had a great time with Chabad but after a while it was time to move on.

Der Rebbe hutt gesugt

B"H

Der Rebbe hutt gesugt – Yiddish: The Rebbe said


Our favourite Tishes, Toldot Aharon and Avraham Yitzchak, are only going to take place again in another three weeks or so. Both Rebbes are abroad.

My special subject, writing about one of the most extreme Chassidic groups, the Toldot Aharon, is delayed. On the one hand, this gives us enough opportunities to visit other Tishes and write about the smaller groups of Mea Shearim. Who, outside the chassidic world, knows about the Slonim, Karlin – Stolin or Kretchnif ?

But, on the other hand, my friend and I do miss going to the Toldot Aharon Tishes. There, we met the nicest women and I spoke with quite a few people. It is rather easy to approach them if you speak the haredi language. Not a particular language of course but people simply feel if you are in society or not. Haredi Yeshiva students shouldn't face any problems there.

Lots of haredi experience or not, it does take plenty of time to get closer and have a more private discussion. Especially if you don't live in the Mea Shearim / Ge'ulah neighbourhood. Another reason might be that I am shy and I admit that I think far too much. Instead of asking "Was machste – How are you", I start thinking about the most complicated questions and in the end there is nothing but silence. This once happened to me when a young Toldot Aharon girl approached me, sat down beside me and wanted to talk. But I started thinking and this was it.

Additionally I have to admit that I don't publish everything we are experiencing at the Tishes or in the streets. One reason is that I haven't sorted out all the details and stories, and the second reason is that I simply would never publish everything. In my opinion, the Chassidim have a right of privacy as well. Not everything has to be in the headlines.

As our favourites are gone, we had to look for other options last Friday night. As the whole Dushinsky building was silent and not shaking, we supposed that nothing special was going on and didn't even investigate any further. Instead we walked up Yoel Street and went to the rather small Chassiut Kretchnif. The Krechtnifer Rebbe of Jerusalem is not the only one of the group. Further Kretchnifer Rebbes are to be found in Rehovot, Haifa or Williamsburgh.

The Krechtnif women in Jerusalem keep a certain distance to all visitors from outside Mea Shearim. It takes some time to get in touch but it seems that we are on the way. Last Friday, we were offered cake from the Rebbe's Tish. That's something.

Women from other groups are more open. I have already mentioned the women of Toldot Aharon and should add the one's from Toldot Avraham Yitzchak. They are extremely nice. Of course, you have to go according to their rules and should speak Yiddish or Hebrew. And it goes without saying that someone has to be Jewish. Being Jewish when going to a Tish is an absolute MUST.

What those women do not expect is a total agreement to their Takanot. I once heard a Chabad girl talking to a Toldot Aharon woman and the later didn't criticize the girl. However, in her opinion, only Toldot Aharon and maybe some others like them, keep the Mitzwot "kmo she zarich – as it should be". I wasn't surprised at all to hear such an opinion.

We are not alone searching for Tishes and last Friday is was harder than usual. Only Belz, the Slonim and Kretchnif had Tishes going on. The women's side (Ezrat Nashim) of Kretchnif was busy. Even a Toldot Aharon woman walked in with her two young daughters. Downstairs were about 60 men; Slonim, Toldot Aharon, Satmar and Shomrei Emunim.

The Kretchnifer Rebbe was in a great mood and encouraged the Chassidim to sing with him. He very much emphasizes on participation and welcomes everybody. The Rebbe doesn't make a difference between his Chassidim or someone from Satmar or the Slonim. "Setzen, setzen – sit down, sit down" he always says.

The thing I like most at Kretchnif is the dance of the Rebbe. He usually does it twice and it is very emotional. Before and after, the Chassidim make a circle around the synagogue tables and dance while the Rebbe remains standing at his place at the Tish.
Towards the end, the Rebbe joins the circle and he dances with such a speed that the other Chassidim have problems to keep up with him. However, I really like when he dances by himself.

If you are looking for an enthusiastic Tish, you should definitely visit Kretchnif. Another advantage is that it is not packed with hundreds of Chassidim.

At about 2.00 am, the Tish was over and the Chassidim accompanied the Rebbe home. I guess he lives in the same building upstairs.

When we left the building, we faced a rather strange incident. Walking back a few Meters to Yoel Street, we saw a kind of police car standing there. It wasn't really a police car. I said on the car in Hebrew letters: "Shmira Ke'Halacha – Guide according to Halacha".

The Chassidim weren't too happy about a car driving around Mea Shearim on Shabbat and as soon as they started approaching it, the car moved a few meters further. I couldn't spot out the driver.
Apparently, the Chassidim couldn't understand what was going on with this strange car but nothing further happened.

If no Tish is taking place at Dushinsky next Erev Shabbat, we will definitely be back at Kretchnif.
___________________

The Kretchnifer Rebbe usually gives two Derashot (Torah teachings) in the middle of his Tish. His third speech is more personal and it mostly includes his experiences with other chassidic rabbis.

Last Friday, I was able to listen to his first Derasha. The problem is that he usually doesn’t speak loud enough but this time, he started with a weak voice but got louder and more enthusiastic.

His Derasha was about "Tefilah – prayer".
The Israelites were taken out of Egypt because they never gave up praying and always prayed with a high Kavanah (concentration). One cannot just look at the clock and say: "Oh, time for Mincha".
It is important to prepare oneself before prayer and pray from the heart. However, never give up praying.


The Kretchnifer Rebbe at his Tish last Purim

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-2985693741374990669

Interview with a Toldot Aharon Girl

B"H

By surfing the Net, I found an interesting Blog article where Eva interviewed a girl from the chassidic group of Toldot Aharon. It is very worth reading:

http://www.evasnotes.net/2007/10/25/chat-with-engaged-toldos-aharon-girl/

From my own experience I know how hard it is to get in touch with their members and being able to ask such questions, but Eva was very lucky.

The Dance of the Rebbe

B"H

Gur, Belz, Karlin - Stolin, Toldot Aharon, Toldot Avraham Yitzchak and the Slonim are the biggest chassidic groups giving Tishes on Shabbat. Those Tishes are quite popular and mostly packed. But who really knows about the small chassidic group Kretchnif ?

As usual, we went for the Shabbat dinner at Rabbi Mordechai Machlis and there we forgot to pay attention to the time. Suddenly it was 11pm and almost to late for any Tish. During the winter, the Tishes start much earlier and the one's which don't are not taking place at the moment. As I wrote before, the Rebbes of Avraham Yitzchak as well as Toldot Aharon are abroad.

We had to make new plans and decided to go to Dushinsky frist. There is was too quiet and we figured that there won't be a Tish. Through Rehov Yoel we wanted to enter Mea Shearim but got stuck on the way. Across the Beit Midrash of Satmar and the Karlin – Synagogue is a small street called Avinoam. And in Avinoam the the synagogue of Chassidut Kretchnif.

The building is rather big and the women's entrance is, as so often, on the backside of the building. After all the amounts of food at the Machlises, climbing up the stairs to the third floor was rather difficult. But as soon as one manages, he doesn't regret all the efforts. Before you get to the women's side, you have to pass a small way which is open to the outside. From there you have a great view over Jerusalem.

The women's side was anything but busy. Only a few women from Kretchnif were there. Including the Rebbitzen who was placed on a kind of thrown; just as her husband downstairs. She seems to be a very nice woman although almost everybody else looks at outsiders as if they are suspicious. This is only at the women's side whereas men from outside the group are not being starred at. And last night, the place was full of outsiders: Toldot Aharon, Slonim, Satmar, Gur, Belz, Shomrei Emunim and three young litvishe guys. The Rebbe of the Jerusalem Kretchnifer accepts everybody and hands out food to anyone. He is very welcoming. The women upstairs, on the other hand, are a very closed group and I think that it would take a long time until they open up.

We arrived relatively late and it was already 11.30pm. The Rebbe had finished eating and was now conducting the Chassidim and motivate them to sing. He likes all the singing and he encourages everybody to participate. Chairs and tables were moved aside and then the show began. The Rebbe was standing in front of his chair and all the Chassidim were dancing around him in a big circle. Then they took their seats again and the Rebbe started dancing alone. This was very nice to see and I really enjoyed it.

In the meantime, a fruit tray and two giant cakes were shipped in. One cake was seemingly a carrot cake and the other was what we call in Hebrew "Ugat Sheish". Both of them were still steaming and the nice smell was all over the place. But before the goodies were handed out, another circle was built and more dancing took place. This time, the Rebbe joined the Chassidim and danced with them in a circle. He was so fast that all the others couldn't keep up with him. The Rebbe just sang and danced. Finally everybody lined up in front of him and got fruit and cake.

Even the Rebbitzen and her small clan. I wasn't interested in all these woman but tried to listen to the Rebbe who gave a Drasha. He spoke about the Exodus, that the Jews got the Mitzwah of Shabbat and that whoever keeps Shabbat, comes out with a strengthened soul (Neshama).

The Rebbe spoke in Yiddish and it is not easy to understand him, as he doesn’t speak too loud and clear. Even the Chassidim had to move closer and be silent. I was in the middle of listening, as the women suddenly started to talk while eating the cake. Why do women always have to start talking when the Rebbe speaks ? Can't they just talk about their family businesses later and listen for a few minutes ? However, the noise destroyed my hearing the Rebbe and I wasn't able to follow his Drasha anymore.

A few more songs after the cake and the Tish was over.
I have to admit that we really enjoyed it this time. All the times before we only saw Kretchnif as a replacement but now, as we saw more, we look at it as a great Tish. I can really recommend it and if you are a guy, line up early for the cake.

Here a Link to a Video where the Kretchnifer Rebbe of Jerusalem is dancing with his youngest daughter. For modesty reasons, the daughter has her face covered with a Tichel.

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=8053135343788864700


The Kretchnif Tish

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=7495712384584720227&q=kretshnif+tish&total=4&start=0&num=10&so=0&type=search&plindex=0

What's up with Gur ?

B"H

Again, Erev Shabbat is approaching and actually we were planning to join the Maariv - prayer at the great synagogue of Chassidut Gur (Yiddish: Ger). However, I just spoke to a few Gerer Chassidim and was told that their Rebbe is not coming to Jerusalem tonight. Instead, he is staying at home in Bnei Brak.

The Rebbe might be coming to Jerusalem in about two weeks or more. If anyone is interested in going to Gur:

1. There will not be a Tish in Jerusalem for the coming two weeks.

2. The Shabbat prayer does not take place in their great synagogue but in the Gerer Beit Midrash in Ge'ulah.

The present Rebbe of Chassidut Gur: Rabbi Yaakov Aryeh Alter



As I am female, I am not allowed to go to the Gerer Rebbe's Tish but I was told (by men) that the Tish is only for 1,5 hours. The Rebbe quickly eats and finishes his Tish rather early, as he very much emphasizes Gemara - studies. And this is what they do right after the Tish: studying Gemara.

Nevertheless, we will see which Tishes are on tonight and I will let you know on Sunday.

Have a great Shabbat - Shabbat Shalom - Gid Shabbes from Jerusalem.

Mishkenot HaRoim

B"H

Below you can look at the only, so far, existing picture of the Mishkenot HaRoim in the Mea Shearim neighbourhood. The Mishkenot HaRoim are members of the Edah HaCharedit and keep themselves rather as a secret.

In the middle: Rabbi Avraham Yitzchak Ullmann of the Edah HaCharedit (Chassidut Dushinsky). To the left is the Rebbe of the Mishkenot HaRoim: Rabbi Chaim Rabinovitz.

Marathon through Mea Shearim

B"H

Weather was perfect; only cold but no rain. It was nice to take a walk through the streets of Mea Shearim last Erev Shabbat.

First I ended up with the Machlis family and their hundred guests for the regular Shabbat dinner. It was so packed that three tables on the porch outside had to be set up. My friends and me were lucky, as we succeeded in occupying a table next to the entrance door. Next to us sat a guy from Chabad who had two yellow Meschiach - stickers on his clothes. I don't know if he was one of the Meshichistim or not. I didn't ask him although during the meal, him and me had a great discussion about Chabad chassidut.
According to the Chabadnik, the group does plan many more activities in Germany. I cannot say that Chabad is too successful in Germany, as especially there the Jews bring forward too many prejudices against Chabad. German Jews see all Chabadnikkim automatically as Meshichistim without realizing that there are different movements inside Chabad.

I told the Chabadnik that especially Satmar rejects them because Chabad is too much into missionizing Jews. The Chabadnik laughed and said that this is very true. However, he gave me the Chabad concept about the whole missionizing matter. As we all know, every Jew has a special spark (Nizotz) in his soul connecting him to G - d. By missionizing, this Nizotz is being reawakened and thus the secular Jew can suddenly connect to his Creator. One Torah concept might be enough to reawaken the spark. And this is the task of Chabad.

Actually I was planning to take this Chabad couple with me for a chassidic Tish but somehow the two of them just disappeared. With a friend I went to the Dushinsky Tish first. In the past we hadn't been too lucky with the Tish at Dushinsky's. Either no Tish took place, the women were not allowed in or we came too late.
Last Erev Shabbat then we couldn't believe our fortune. There was a Tish and we even found a good place in the Ezrat Nashim in order to look down to the Chassidim and the Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Zvi Dushinsky.

The Dushinsky Rebbe: Rabbi Yosef Zvi Dushinsky



I wasn't planning to stay for too long, as I had made up many plans for that night. However, I have to say that although Dushinsky does not have the best Niggunim (songs), they do have the greatest singers. It was more than listening to a professional choir. Next to the room where the Tish takes place, they built a new synagogue. We had a look into it from upstairs and if anyone wants to see a great synagogue should definitely go to Dushinsky. The Aron HaKodesh is huge and on its left side, two special wooden chairs are placed. The bigger one is obviously for the Rebbe and the smaller one seems to be for the second man in Chassidut Dushinsky: for Rabbi Avraham Yitzchak Ullmann. Rabbi Ullmann is one of the most important figures in the Edah HaCharedit.

After about half an hour we left and walked through Yoel Street into Mea Shearim. Our first destination was the synagogue of the secret Edah group "Mishkenot HaRoim". Usually their two doors are wide open and I though I might be lucky. The door to the left was obviously the men's entrance. There is another door on the right which seemed to be the women;s entrance. We were standing in front of the building and thinking to go in or not.
At the same moment, some litvishe Yeshiva guys showed up and opened the men's door. A Chassid came out and didn't want to let them inside. They had to leave and walked away. Of course, we thought that the same might also apply to us. We walked away as well but couldn't stop thinking about the open women's entrance door.
After 100 meters we decided to go back. Actually my friend was more brave than me. We came back to the building and another Chassid walked out. I asked him if the other door is the women's entrance. He looked at me that replied that they do not have a Tish. He said it and disappeared.

Well, I do not recommend to anyone doing the same as we did after the Chassid walked away. We just walked into the second door. We climbed up some stairs but suddenly saw man'e clothes hanging there. We weren't so sure if this was really a women's entrance and decided to leave. Everything rather looked like a total men's society inside. I will definitely go back and ask some people. The thing I can say is that all kinds of male members of different Edah groups were going in and out. But Edah members only !!!

The chassidic groups of Toldot Aharon and Avraham Yitzchak did not have a Tish that night. We heard that the Rebbe of Avraham Yitzchak, Rabbi Shmuel Yaakov Kahn, went on a vacation to Mexico and won't have a Tish for another few months. If this is right I am really asking myself why especially he is going away all the time. Doesn't he have to take care of his Chassidim ? And even if not, there are plenty of Chassidim who do not have much money and hardly make a living. Why then is a Rebbe allowed to travel and waste so much money for himself ? The Rebbes of Belz, Slonim Jerusalem, Kretchnif Jerusalem or Dushinsky are hardly traveling.

Rather spontaneously we decided to visit some synagogues instead. Usually everything is open in Mea Shearim on Friday night. However, last Erev Shabbat everything seemed to be abandoned and people apparently went to sleep early. The synagogues of Sadigora and Kaliv were closed. Tchernobyl was open and busy but, as usual, the women's entrance was locked. This forces us to come back during the daytime. Nevertheless, we had a great long walk and I was completely finished when I finally came home.

This Friday night we are going to the Maariv service. The doors won't be locked because thousands of Chassidim will be praying at this place. I am talking about the huge synagogue of Chassidut GUR.

A busy Shabbat

B"H

Sometimes I am really jealous that the New Yorker have such an incredible choice of chassidic Tishes. On the other hand, New York is not Jerusalem and it is better to be here.

This Shabbat, I am planning to go to the synagogue of the unknown group Mishkenot HaRoim. The Mishkenot HaRoim keep themselves as a kind of secret organization. Very little is known about them. They are part of the anti - Zionist umbrella organization Edah HaCharedit in Mea Shearim. A few months ago, they organized a Yahrzeit service for the famous Neturei Karta head Rabbi Amram Blau (Yiddish: Bloi). Rabbi Blau passed away in 1974 and was a famous Jerusalem figure, as he fought against anything anti - religious.

I wanted to participate in the Yahrzeit service. Not because I agree with certain anti - State of Israel ideas, but because I was interested in seeing the group.
From the Mea Shearim posters (Fakshivilim), however, I learned that the memorial service only included the learning of Talmudic Mishnayot. This was it. In haredi circles this means "NO WOMEN" but only men.

I hope the Mishkenot HaRoim let me into their synagogue. Furthermore, I am planning to go to the Munkatch, Tchernobyl and Sadigora synagogues in Jerusalem.

Have a great Shabbat. Shabbat Shalom. Git Shabbes.


Pictures from the ultra - orthodox Mea Shearim / Jerusalem

Irrationality

B"H

As soon as I start searching for sociological literature about "Society structures within Chassidic groups", I am having a hard time. There are so many people who think that they have something to say about "Chassidim" but most of those authors only know the subject from other books and others might have had a brief conversion with a Chassid. And then there are those who have lived for a while with a certain Chassidic group such as Satmar.
Very nice but this is not what I am looking for. Actually there are a few interesting studies about chassidic society made by the Brandeis University and that's about it.

What is the chassidic society and why do thousands of their members decide to follow a rebbe and a certain ideology ?

I don't have problems with the chassidic ideology at all, as I follow their teachings and many customs myself. However, I cannot imagine myself following one rebbe and accepting only his decisions and no one else's.

The first chassidic group trying to missionize me was, of course, Chabad. After many shiurim and Shabbatot I was asked to participate. Not only once but several times. When I refused to become a member, the Chabadnikkim were disappointed. Although I did explain all my reasons for being independent. I also studied with Breslov but they somehow did never try to missionize me. Further time I spend with Satmar but there the women only emphasized to me how important it is to be haredi. "One cannot be really religious without being haredi".

My last missionary attacks I "suffered" from Belz. As I know quite a few Belzer Chassidim, the "attacks" are still going on but so far, I always escaped their attempts. I cannot see myself joining any group and following a particular rebbe. But I do wonder how other people can do that. How can they follow a certain ideal ? The reasons are probably very different between those who were born into a chassidic group and those who decided to join from the outside.

A few months ago, I asked a friend of mine who is also dealing with the subject of "Chassidut", why a rebbe needs his Chassidim and why the Chassidim need the rebbe. One could claim that the rebbe is the Zaddik and the group needs him in order to draw itself closer to G – d. On the other hand, there are many opinions in Chassidut (see the Peshis'cha movement) that each Jew has to make his own effort in order to get closer to G – d. And each Jew has his own power to do this and thus, he doesn't necessarily needs a Zaddik, as each of us could be a Zaddik.

My friend, however, answered that in chassidic groups exist a symbioses: The rebbe needs his Chassidim and they need him. As a matter of fact, without this there wouldn't be any chassidic groups.

I would like to give two more examples for my theories:

The Chabad Center in the Jerusalem Mall Ben Yehudah is quite famous. The center has a soup kitchen and offers Shiurim on a regular basis. A few young Chabadnikkim run the center and whoever wants to join and live there is welcomed but has to accept the Chabad rules. I am not sure if I should call this "brainwashing". Brainwashing might be the wrong word, as there are actually people staying in the center who otherwise don't have a place to go. So they keep the Chabad rules in order not to be kicked out.

The Chabadnikkim in the center have their firm timetable. When to get up, when to pray, breakfast, Talmud study and so on. The timetable is so tight that there is no time for personal matters. Everybody needs some time for himself. To think, to relax, whatever. However, the Chabad timetable in the Ben Yehudah center does not allow a free minute. Everything is organized.

The second example I would like to mention is the Chassidut Toldot Aharon.

As far as I could find out, the Toldot Aharon Chassidim have a general meeting every year on the day of the Yahrzeit of the Maggid of Mezritch. Then, their Rebbe (Rabbi David Kahn) gives a Drasha and reads the internal laws of the group, the Takanot.
All Toldot Aharon members are obligated to fulfill those Takanot and if not, they are not considered to be part of the group. There is no discussion about this fact. And every year at this general meeting they have to sign the Takanot anew. Sometimes it happens that their Rebbe adds a few new laws.

When you see the women of Toldot Aharon in the streets of Mea Shearim or elsewhere, you always see them with other women from the same group. They might talk to an outsider but they would never become friends with someone not being part of Toldot Aharon. Not even with the women from Satmar. And this takes place although Satmar finances Toldot Aharon.

About two weeks ago, the Toldot Aharon Chassidim had another general meeting in their Beit Midrash. As far as I heard, newcomers into the group do not always have to sign all the Takanot, as there is an opinion that no one from the outside would be able to keep everything unless he is born into the group.
But I cannot confirm if this is really true or not.

How can people follow the rules of a rebbe and a society ? Is the Halacha not enough ? If not and you want to be chassidic so follow the basic opinions of the Baal Shem Tov, the Maggid, the Chozeh of Lublin, the House of Kotzk or Peshis'cha.

We always look at the chassidic groups without realizing that we are basically doing the same. Everybody follows society rules and none of us is free from everything. Every society has its structure and rules.

This reason still doesn't make me understand why the Toldot Aharon members are not allowed to have friends from the outside. Each of us has to do his Tikkunim and in order to do this, you have to open up to other Jews. Even the Maharal of Prague writes in his commentary on the Pirkei Avot that a Jew is not alone in this world and thus has to fulfill his tasks.

The official reason for the Takanot is to avoid the destruction of the group. New strange ideas could have a great impact on the members and let the group fall apart.
When my friend and me go to the Tish of their split off Avraham Yitzchak, we do realize that many of those women become more and more modern. Becoming slightly more modern does not automatically mean to leave the group. Why then do they need all the rules to be cautious ? Is it more a dictatorship ?
The word "dictatorship" might be wrong because each member has the freedom to decide whether he wants to be a member or not. Of course, I admit that people who want to leave those groups might face extreme difficulties but eventually they could leave.

Why do they have to sign the Takanot and what does makes them signing at all ? Because he doesn't have another choice, as he was born into the group ? Does being born into a chassidic group mean having a home ? And do the Toldot Aharon members want to live without their Takanot at all ?

A secular friend of mine once said that all these Haredim follow the rules and the rebbes because they have nothing else in life and are unable to make their own decisions. She might be right concerning the newly religious.

Despite all the Takanot and internal rules of each chassidic group, one thing is very obvious. The members always find their own individual way to be a little more modern and to develope their own freedom.

One of the most important things for the Toldot Aharon and Avraham Yitzchak women seems to be jewellery. If a wedding is taking place, the groom obviously has to provide at least two new rings for the bride as well as a new watch. The young girls like silver or copper watches and shiny earrings. They really like to show off a little when they are with their friends or at the Tish.

Society pressure, rebbes, Takanot….
Chassidic society will continue its way and hardly any members are going to rebel. And maybe the Takanot or other rules are more a problem for us then to the Chassidim themselves.
The Chassidim always find a way around to ease the rules and let's be honest, some close their door and do it their own way.

Any changes towards modernity can only start from the inside and even if, it is a very slow process and needs plenty of patience. The Toldot Aharon women asked for music lessons at the girls' schools and have not yet succeeded. But don't undermine their effort, as already making such a demand is a great advance.

Shabbat Chanukkah in Mea Shearim

B"H

The worst what can happen to a religious Jew on Shabbat are heavy rain showers. Rain in Israel is a blessing, as we don't have too much rain and water. However, when someone plans to go somewhere on Erev Shabbat or Shabbat lunch, heavy rain showers turn out to be a catastrophe. Either you take a rain coat or you choose to get completely wet, as according to the Halacha, we are not allowed to use umbrellas on Shabbat.

Last Erev Shabbat my friend and I went through the whole experience. The winter has started in Israel and it was raining on Erev Shabbat. I took my rain coat and walked for about 30 minutes to Rabbi Mordechai Machlis in the Maalot Dafna neighbourhood. There, we had a great Shabbat meal where we especially enjoyed the hot delicious chicken soup.

Then we had the free choice. As it was the Shabbat during Chanukkah, all the chassidic groups had a Tish. I am sure that even the Shomrei Emunim had a Tish taking place. Otherwise they hardly have, as the Rebbe is not the youngest anymore and also lives in Bnei Brak.

During the winter, the chassidic Tishes start much earlier and you should be there at about 10pm. The Belzer Chassidim already start at 9pm and Dushinsky start at 9.45pm.

We walked down to Shivtei Israel Street and started with the Toldot Aharon synagogue. The Tishes on the holidays are always packed and as soon as we entered at Toldot Aharon, we saw hundreds of women watching the Tish downstairs. There was not space to stand left, let alone to sit. The Ezrat Nashim there consists of two huge rooms and both of them were completely full of women. We had no chance to squeeze ourselves inside and decided to move on to the Toldot Avraham Yitzchak just around the corner.

There we were lucky and found two great seats. Also at Avraham Yitzchak, the Tish was packed but there were still some seats at the Ezrat Nashim. The synagogue is still suffering from construction works going on but it was okay to sit and enjoy the Tish. Every day during Chanukkah, the Toldot Avraham Yitzchak have parties for the children going on. And we weren't too surprised when we saw many women taking their little kids to the Tish. Actually it was packed with small children. Sometimes is became too noisy and the Rebbitzin wasn't very pleased and told people to be quiet. But what can you do with babies and small children ?

Rebbe Shmuel Yaakov Kahn was in his great mood and was singing and conducting his Chassidim downstairs. He was so excited and couldn't calm down. Even at the end of the Tish he got so excited that he started to jump in his chair while he was sitting. However, I think that he does not feel to well and he reduced his dancing. Towards the end of the Tish, Avraham Yitzchak has the great custom to stand up, sing enthusiastically and jump. Unfortunately, last Erev Shabbat they reduced their jumps due to the Rebbe. Instead, they took each others hand and started swinging.

The Tish of the Toldot Avraham Yitzchak is and remains the best Tish in Mea Shearim. Followed by the Toldot Aharon.