There are many similarities between Rabbi Moses Maimonides (Rambam) whose yartzeit is, 20 Tevet (this year January 1) and Rabbi Shneur Zalman, the founder of Chabad Chassidism, whose yartzeit is 24 Tevet (This year Friday, January 5).
The Rebbe spoke about the connection between the two in a talk on Shabbat, 24 Tevet, 1982.
He explained, “The connection between Rabbi Shneur Zalman and the Rambam is expressed in many stories and in many way.
Each one was a leader of his generation, each one was a Jewish legal authority of his generation. And both continue to guide the generations that followed.
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 book on the Jewish world-outlook, matters of the heart, and prayer. 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 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, if and when they will properly investigate the reason for their opposition, they will find that there is nothing to oppose and ultimately they will become supporters.
