3 Tamuz, a very special day

On this day, 99 years ago, the previous Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Yoseph Yitzchak Shneersohn, was freed from prison. He was sent there because he defied the Soviet regime by leading efforts to educate children according to the Jewish tradition of Torah and Mitzvot, something the communist regime was fiercely opposed to.

Today, the third day of the Jewish month of Tamuz, will usher in the hundredth year since his release. He went on to spread Judaism in Europe, and later in the United States, establishing schools to teach children about their heritage.

The third day of Tamuz, 32 years ago, also marks another significant date, the passing of the previous Rebbe’s son-in-law, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, who followed in his father-in-law’s footsteps and strengthened Jewish identity throughout the world.

He taught Torah, both the revealed and mystical aspects. He counselled individuals in all kinds of matters, physical and spiritual. He tried to shield the land of Israel from danger, as he passionately spoke about the danger of giving away land; on October 7 his viewpoint was sadly validated. And he spoke about the Noahide laws for all nations.

The Rebbe’s ambitious and world-changing efforts have been emulated by his emissaries. They have forged ahead and expanded tremendously, shining the light of G-dliness throughout the world, illuminating so many lives.

They rose to the challenge, and they have succeeded tremendously, teaching Jews about their Judaism, and teaching non-Jews the seven Noahide laws which G-d told Moses at Mount Sinai to tell all the nations. This will bring peace to the world.

The third day of Tamuz reminds us that when we are determined to spread goodness and kindness and help others, then obstacles melt away.

The third of Tamuz inspires us with what we can accomplish when we set our hearts and minds to it; and that, like the previous Rebbe, his son-in-law the next Rebbe, and their emissaries, we too can overcome challenges and save the world.

The third day of Tamuz is a special day. We can internalize its inspiring lessons, to motivate ourselves towards making our world a peaceful and G-dly place.

And very soon, when the final Redemption arrives, we will greet those who will become alive in this world, in physical bodies, and we will dance with the Rebbes and all our ancestors, and show them how we followed their example.

And there will be immense joy, forever.

May it happen now.