Harav Yaakov Meir Shechter, leader of Breslev chassidim and Rosh Yeshiva of the Yeshivas Hamekubalim “Shaar Hashamayim” in Yerushalayim, met with the Chief Rabbi of Russia Berel Lazar, and shared his admiration for the Rebbe and his shluchim.
Harav Yaakov Meir Shechter, leader of Breslev chassidim and Rosh Yeshiva of the Yeshivas Hamekubalim “Shaar Hashamayim”, met with the Chief Rabbi of Russia Rabbi Berel Lazar who came to the Holy Land for a quick visit to benefit the klal.
Harav Shechter welcomed his guest with a big smile and seated him at the head of the table, where they conversed for a while on Torah matters.
amongst which Rabbi Lazar repeated an explanation from the Rebbe on the words of R’ Shimon Bar Yochai who said about himself “I can absolve the entire world from judgment.” At first, these words are difficult to understand, since how can R’ Shimon Bar Yochai absolve a jew who committed a grave sin and deserves harsh punishment?
The Rebbe explains that this is so because Rashbi connects with every yid, even one who is at the lowest spiritual level, and therefore he can absolve even such a person.
Upon hearing this, Harav Shechter smiled broadly and remarked that only the Rebbe can give such an explanation.
Harav Shechter shared that when his daughter was ill, he sent a letter with a request to the Rebbe that he daven for her.
The conversation continued as he took an interest in the activities of the Rebbe’s Shluchim in Russia. When Rabbi Lazar spoke about it being evident how a yid’s Neshama suddenly awakens, since the spark is always burning deep inside, Harav Shechter reacted with great enthusiasm.
The fascinating dialogue touched upon a number of public matters, amongst which Harav Shechter expressed gratitude to Russia’s Chief Rabbi for his assistance to Breslev chassidim in Uman.
As the visit came to an end, Harav Shechter presented his guest with two of his new books, thanked him for the visit, and walked him to the main entrance with great honor.
Photos: Mayan Yerushalayim
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