When Rav Bertzi of Satmar was just a youngster, a very distressed Chassid came to the door seeking the blessings and miraculous intervention of Rav Bertzi’s father, Rav Mordechai, who was away from home at the time. When the Chassid learned of the tzaddik’s absence, his sadness and distress were palpable, and the young Rav Bertzi’s heart went out to the despondent visitor. “I am sorry my father is not here to help you,” he said, “but perhaps you can share your problems with me. Maybe there is some way I can help.”
The man consented. “I work as a government supplier for the army,” he began. “Recently, the army performed a routine inspection, and found that my supplies are short. They claim that the weight of my goods is below the average weight specified on my bill of sale. Whatever shall I do?” he cried in despair.
“Give me one coin as a pidyon and I will help you!” declared the young tzaddik. The guest gave Rav Bertzi the requested pidyon, and Rav Bertzi responded, “You have nothing further to worry about. When the case comes to court, just tell the judges that you insist they reweigh the supplies.”
The man followed the youngster’s advice. And so it was that, when they reweighed the supplies, the prosecution discovered to their astonishment that the weight discrepancy was, in fact, in their favor! The defendant had not shortchanged them at all; rather, he had provided them with surplus! The case was thrown out and the decree against the Chassid was cancelled.
The joyous Chassid returned to thank the young tzaddik. When Rav Mordechai heard about his young son’s miraculous intervention, he turned and asked him, “Bertzi, what did you do?”
“Really, it was simple, Father,” explained Rav Bertzi. “I davened to Hashem that, during the trial, the archangel Michael should come and apply all his weight to the scales of justice and mercy. He did so – which tipped the scales in the Chassid’s favor, and he won.” (Roshei Golas Ariel)
