Anniversary of the Mittler Rebbe’s Birth, Passing and Festival of Liberation
A Brief History
The Mittler Rebbe (second Lubavitcher Rebbe) was born on the 9th of Kislev 5534 (1773). His birth was the result of an explicit blessing given by the Maggid of Mezritch to his father, the Alter Rebbe. The Maggid had passed away in the interim, and in keeping with his instruction, the Mittler Rebbe was given his name, “Dov Ber.”
The Mittler Rebbe was slandered to the Czar and imprisoned in the year 5587 (1826). He was liberated on the 10th of Kislev and the day was established as time of great significance and celebration for Chassidism.
Almost a year later (on the 9th of Kislev, 5588 (1827)), the Mittler Rebbe passed away in an extraordinary and holy manner and while in the course of delivering a Chassidic discourse. Concerning his passing, the Tzemach Tzedek declared: Never since the days of Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai [author of the Zohar] has anyone been taken from this world in such a manner and while teaching Torah.
Time for Moshiach
We should utilize this most propitious and favorable occasion by increasing our efforts to further advance and speed the coming of the true and complete Redemption.
In Full Swing
Due to the passing of the Mittler Rebbe, the Chassidim did not celebrate his liberation with full fiery enthusiasm on its first anniversary, as is known. In later years though, the celebration of his liberation (which took place on the 10th of Kislev) is celebrated with great enthusiasm – particularly since it occurs on the day following the 9th of Kislev, the anniversary of his birth and passing. (Parshas Vayeitzei 5752, footnote 147; Hisva’aduyos p.353)
