Deciphering the Cryptic Teachings of Harav Levi Yitzchok 

In his teachings, Harav Levi Yitzchok cites much Kabbalah that often leaves readers perplexed. Yet, with the right effort and attention, his Torah can be understood, and the reader can appreciate his beautiful insight and deep perspective. Here are samplings of his Torah elucidated.

Have you ever looked into the deep and vast teachings of the Rebbe’s father, Harav Levi Yitzchok?

In the writings he composed before his exile, the flow of his pen seemed never to stop, as he went on for pages upon pages, deciphering cryptic texts of the Mishnah and Gemara, applying Kabbalistic concepts to practical Halachos, and finding remazim, gematriyaos, and fascinating insights in the words of pesukim in Chumash.

Later, in exile, he wrote concise notes on the margins of the few seforim he had with him, further challenging the reader to discover the depth of his genius. 

In his teachings, Harav Levi Yitzchok cites much Kabbalah and deals with subjects unfamiliar to most students, and he writes with an ease that often leaves readers perplexed.

The Rebbe once said (with characteristic humility) that all the explanations he gives on his father’s Torah are only “B’derech efshar (suggestions), for my father’s words cannot be fully explained. His understanding far supersedes my own; I offer only a possible approach…”

However, the Rebbe published these seforim for everyone to learn and discussed them at almost every Shabbos farbrengen for years.

The Rebbe wished that these writings be studied and appreciated by all, especially at the time of his father’s Yom Hilula, on Chof Menachem-Av. 

In a famous ksav yad kodesh, the Rebbe makes a personal, heartfelt request, which he refers to as his “obligation and privilege”—that everyone learn from Harav Levi Yitzchok’s Torah on his yahrtzeit.

With the right effort and attention, Harav Levi Yitzchok’s Torah can be accessed, and the reader can soon begin to appreciate and enjoy his beautiful insight and deep perspective. 

Approaching the 80th Yahrtzeit-Hilula of Harav Levi Yitzchok, the Derher magazine this month features samplings of his Torah in an article titled: “Exploring the Depths”.

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Derher for Kids has three episodes on Harav Levi Yitzchok’s life to help your kids prepare for Chof Av.

Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Pocket Casts, Youtube Music, 24Six or Google Drive.