R' Yissachar Dov of Belz was once in Vienna for health reasons when he became enchanted by the sound of someone learning gemara. Curious, he went to see who it was and was deeply moved by what he found. There, in military uniform, was a Jewish soldier in his uniform using his brief time off from duty to immerse himself in Torah learning. The Rebbe remarked, “This Jew is holding back the redemption!” He explained that naturally a soldier on leave would seek rest or entertainment. But this soldier chose to learn gemara, bringing Hashem immeasurable joy.
“Imagine the pleasure this gives to Hashem. A pleasure so great that it may delay the redemption, because when Moshiach comes, Hashem will miss this precious joy.”
This story remains as relevant today as ever, reminding us of the countless IDF soldiers in Gaza, Lebanon and elsewhere who devote their rare free moments to Torah study.
Imagine the immense pride and pleasure Hashem must feel!
