There are many similarities between Rabbi Moses Maimonides (Rambam) whose yartzeit is the coming Monday, the 20th of Tevet, and Rabbi Shneur Zalman, the founder of Chabad Chassidism, whose yartzeit is next Friday on the 24th of Tevet.
The Rebbe spoke about the connection between the two in a talk on Shabbat, 24 Tevet, 1982.
He explained that the connection between Rabbi Shneur Zalman and the Rambam is expressed in many stories and in many ways.
Each one was a leader and a Jewish legal authority of his generation. Both also continue to serve as a guide for all the generations that follow to this day.
There is also a unique and obvious similarity: When one speaks of Maimonides, one mentions "Rambam" - which while being an acronym for his name is actually how his Jewish legal work the Mishne Torah is known. One also mentions "The Guide for the Perplexed," his philosophical and theological work, which pertains to the belief and service of G-d. Similarly, when speaking of Rabbi Shneur Zalman, for what was he most known? For his Shulchan Aruch HaRav (Code of Jewish Law) and his philosophical work, the Tanya.
Another similarity is that Maimonides encountered tremendous opposition and persecution, more so than even Rabbi Shneur Zalman. And yet, those who actually took the time to explore and investigate Maimonides' teachings eventually became his staunchest supporters and disciples. And so, too, with Rabbi Shneur Zalman.
The lesson for us is not to be discouraged when we are doing the right thing. Even if there are detractors or opposition, eventually they will find that there is nothing to oppose and ultimately will become its very supporters.
