Rabbi Levi Yitzchak of Berdichev spent his life acting as the self-appointed character witness for the Jewish people, engaging in a constant dialogue with G‑d, pointing out the unique qualities of every Jew he met.
It was the afternoon before Pesach, and Rabbi Levi Yitzchak was wandering through the streets of the Jewish quarter seeking out the local smugglers. From one he quietly asked for a quote on forbidden tobacco, from another he inquired about the availability of smuggled embroideries. And so on, no matter the merchandise he sought, everything was available for the right price.
However, when he started asking the smugglers to supply him with some bread or whiskey, (that is chometz) those very same businessmen who had previously proved so accommodating balked. "Rabbi," said one, "are you trying to insult me? The seder will be starting in just a few hours and no Jew would have even a speck of chametz left in his home or business."
Not one merchant was willing or able to come up with even a crumb of bread or an ounce of alcohol. The town had converted into a chametz-free zone.
Thrilled with the results of his failed quest, the Berdichever looked up to heaven and declared: "G‑d Almighty, look down with pride at Your people! The Czar has border guards and tax-commissioners dedicated to his commands. The police and the courts are devoted to tracking down and punishing smugglers and black-marketers, and yet, anything one could possibly want is available. Contrast this with the faith and loyalty of Your Jews. It has been over 3,000 years since you commanded us to observe Passover. No police, no guards, no courts and jails enforce this edict—and yet every Jew keeps Your laws to the utmost!
"Mi k'amcha Yisrael – Who is like Your nation, Israel?!"
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