Another Vort for Meal 13 Chumrahs vs Hurt Feelings

During the First World War, it became very difficult to obtain arbah minim. The Chofetz Chaim was fortunate in that somebody sent him a lulav from overseas, the only one in town.

The Chofetz Chaim recited the berachah on the lulav, but did not wave it during Hallel in shul. He explained, “Although taking the species is an obligation, waving them during Hallel is only a custom. I think that it is more important not to draw attention by waving the lulav – and causing others less fortunate to feel anguish – than it is for me to fulfil this custom.” (Rabbi Ephraim Nisenbaum)