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Shmuel Stenge

Personal Growth and Uman – A New Accoustic Rap Song

This song came to me very quickly. The inspiration behind it is that going to Uman for Rosh Hashana has changed my life – I wanted to give something back.

And I’m far from the only one to have had this kind of transformative experience.

Speak to almost anyone who has been once or twice to Uman for Rosh Hashana and you’re more than likely to hear some kind of miracle story.

People ask me what it is about Uman that is so special? What is it that can bring about such enthusiasm and change in people? I always say that I only have one explanation and that it may not be satisfying:

“There is a great, great Tzadik there, and his presence to be palpable.”

This is what I answer.

I know there are naysayers. I respect your opinion. This pilgrimage is probably not for everybody. But I can tell you,  on Rosh Hashana in Uman, you literally see almost every kind of Jew represented, from the most secular to hard-core meah shearim chareidi. Sefardi, Ashkenazi, from every corner of the globe, it’s incredible.

You begin to realize that only a really great Tzadik can be the catalyst for such a gathering.

A couple of more disclaimers before I let you hear the song.

  1. It’s recommended to speak to a close friend or mentor about whether undertaking the trip to Uman is a healthy move in your particular set of circumstances, whatever they may be.
  2. There is a semi-controversial line in the song about going to Uman “even if it drives your wife insane.” Let it be clear that I am not advocating for marital discord of any kind. I guess my point is that, if someone is sincere about their desire to go to Uman, it may difficult for your spouse to take on the self-sacrifice of being by herself for the holiday. However, there are ways to compensate and prepare. Furthermore, despite the challenge and “insanity” this choice may bring, it is my belief based on the teachings of Rebbe Nachman that the whole family stands to benefit from the man of the house undertaking this journey.

Finally, some very special and generous people helped me put this project together. Thank you very much to them and may they be blessed! I hope you enjoy the song and find it inspirational.

Shana Tovah U’metuka!

About the Author
Shmuel Stenge, aka Beinoni, is a 34-year-old father of four living in Israel. He is a customer service rep for a Raanana-based fin-tech company by night, and Torah student and musician by day. His spiritual influences range from the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rebbe Nachman, the Pilzno Rebbe, and the good ol' fashioned Talmud. Musically, he is inspired by particular strands of hip-hop, dub-step, raggae and punk. Currently, his personal play-list consists of 21 Pilots, Arcade Fire, UK Grime, Beastie Boys, and Yonatan Razel.