Rabbi Yisrael Friedman, the founder of the Ruzhin Chassidic dynasty, was born on the 3rd of Tishrei, 5557 (1796). He was the son of Rabbi Shalom Shachna, who was the son of Rabbi Avraham the only son of the Maggid of Mezritch, also known as Avraham the Angel. At the age of six, Rabbi Yisrael's father passed away, and he was raised and educated by his brother, Rabbi Avraham of Praveitch. The tzaddikim of his generation held him in high regard, and many of them visited him as chasidim visit their Rebbe. Rabbi Yisrael conducted himself in a regal manner, reflecting the greatness of the people of Israel, who are considered royalty. His wealth and the honor he received stirred the envy of the Russian Tsar, who imprisoned him. Rabbi Yisrael escaped from prison in a miraculous manner and settled in Sadigura, Austria. He passed away on the 3rd of Cheshvan, 5611 (1850).
Rabbi Yisrael of Ruzhin recounted the following story:
There was once a very fine young man who was an only child and was in great danger. The Ba'al Shem Tov commanded that a candle be made of wax. He then traveled to the forest, attached the candle to a tree, performed certain actions, and unified holy Names, and effected a salvation with the help of Blessed God.
Later, a similar event occurred during the time of my grandfather, the holy Maggid of Mezritch. He also acted in the same manner as described above. However, he said, “I do not know the specific unifications and intentions that the Ba'al Shem Tov had in mind. I will simply perform the actions and rely on the intentions that the Ba'al Shem Tov had.” And this too was accepted and brought about salvation.
Afterward, a similar event happened during the time of the holy Rabbi Moshe Leib of Sassov, of blessed memory. He said, “We do not have the strength even to perform the same actions. Therefore, I will simply relate the story, and Blessed God will help!” And indeed, so it was, with the help of Blessed God.”
