The Yeshivah of the Chofetz Chaim, zt”l, in Radin, was in dire financial straits. The Chofetz Chaim visited one of Russia’s wealthiest Jews to ask for help. This man owned a number of large factories, some of which operated on Shabbos.
The wealthy man was moved by the Chofetz Chaim’s request and immediately gave him a very large donation. When the Chofetz Chaim saw the sum the man had contributed, he burst into tears.
The wealthy man was distraught. “Rebbe,” he pleaded, “I’ll give you more money, as much as you ask for, but please stop crying!”
The Chofetz Chaim responded, “It’s not the size of your donation that’s causing me so much anguish. What pains me so much is that a Jew like you, with such a good and kind heart, will have to suffer in Gehinom because of Chilul Shabbos!”
The wealthy man was deeply moved by the Chofetz Chaim’s sincere pain for him, and he gave his word that he would close all his factories on Shabbos!
Rav Gamliel Rabinowitz wrote about Rav Shlomke of Zvhil, zt”l, who was known as a Tzadik who could work wonders, and whose Brachos and actions brought salvation and inspiration to many people, particularly among the residents of Yerushalayim.
Despite his efforts to conceal his greatness, certain miracles he performed became widely known, causing great awe and admiration. On one occasion, news of a remarkable miracle he performed spread throughout Yerushalayim. Despite his attempts to avoid publicizing his spiritual power, the extraordinary event could not be hidden.
One of his close Talmidim, Rav Eliyahu Roth zt”l, seized this opportunity to discuss the miracle with his Rebbe. During their conversation, he asked Rav Shlomke, “How does one attain the ability to perform such great wonders?”
Rav Shlomke’s response was shockingly simple. He said, “It’s very easy. When you become accustomed to asking Hashem for help with every breath you take and thanking Him afterward, He grants you the power to accomplish such things!”
Reprinted from the Parshas Ki Savo 5785 email of Rabbi Yehuda Winzelberg’s Torah U’Torah.
