Today, the 22nd day of Shvat, is the anniversary of the passing of Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka Schneerson.
She was the daughter of the previous Lubavitcher Rebbe, and wife of the Rebbe.
The Rebbetzin exerted a powerful influence on Chabad-Lubavitch, but remained outside of the limelight.
An intelligent and educated wise woman, Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka carried the mantle of her exalted position in a most humble and unpretentious way.
Yet, despite her extraordinary role – as unknown as it was to the public – and her regal upbringing and bearing, it seems that she always found common ground with those who came to her. She made sure to make each one feel comfortable and heard, as she displayed much sensitivity towards them.
Following their wedding, the Rebbe and the Rebetzin lived in Berlin but when the Nazi regime took power, they fled to Paris. But when France was invaded by the German forces, they then fled to the south of France. In the course of their flight, there was a devastating bombardment. As people ran in every direction, the Rebetzin noticed an explosive shell heading towards a man that was next to her. She quickly pushed the man to the ground, thereby saving his life. Recounting this story the Rebetzin said, "True, I saved his life, but for pushing a Jew, one must repent."
In the days and months following her passing, the Rebbe spoke frequently on the theme, "And the living shall take to heart". The Rebbe explained that the passing of a person close to oneself should prompt one to positive action, in the form of lessons derived from that person's life and G-dly deeds undertaken to perpetuate his or her memory; then the death itself becomes a form of life.
Therefore, for the sake and in memory of Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka's soul we should increase and make good resolutions in the areas of Prayer, Torah Study and Tzedaka/good deeds.
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