Introduction
The Rebbe was born in Nikolayev, Russia, on Yud-Aleph (the 11th) of Nissan, 5662 (1902), and was named after the Tzemach Tzedek, the third Lubavitcher Rebbe. Notably, the first time that the importance of a birthday was made known to the public – and indeed publicized as an instruction for all to follow – was the Rebbe’s entry for 11 Nissan in Hayom Yom: “On a birthday, one should spend time in seclusion. He should recall his experiences [of the past year] and contemplate them deeply. He should then repent and correct whatever requires repentance and correction.” Clearly, being the birthday of the Leader of our Generation, the 11th of Nissan is a significant day for all Jews.
Spiritual: Torah, Mitzvos, Festive Farbrengen
We should utilize this special day in a manner that will cause an increase in all matters of Torah and mitzvos, amidst joy.
This is accomplished by holding a joyful farbrengen attended by many Jewish men, women and children – obviously with a mechitzah (partition) in accordance with Shulchan Aruch.
The atmosphere should be charged with a joy that stems from the knowledge that we are celebrating the birthday of the Rebbe, the Leader of our Generation, and that this is a day of great merit for all Jews.
To Distinguish Between Diverse Forces of Holiness
…The mechitzah is a “barrier” that stems from holiness, from the Torah, and it serves to emphasize the unique qualities of the people on either of the two sides. A mechitzah announces that those on either side of it carry an advantage which those of the other side do not possess (11 Nissan, 5743/1983, Hisvaaduyos, p. 1627; fn. 19).
