Tomorrow evening marks Gimmel Tamuz – the day also known as the Rebbe’s Day. On this day, 32 years ago, the soul of the great Tzaddik and Leader of our generation, the Seventh Lubavitcher Rebbe, Menachem Mendel Schneerson, departed from the material world. Since then, this date has held special significance for both the Jewish people and all of humanity.
It is customary on the Rebbe’s Day to make good resolutions, to strengthen one’s observance of mitzvos, and, if possible, to visit his Ohel in New York. If this is not possible, one should write a “pidyon nefesh” and request a blessing from the Tzaddik. A “pidyon ha-nefesh” (or PAN), literally meaning “redemption of the soul,” is a written appeal to a tzaddik whose soul has departed from the material world.
“Year after year, the Rebbe received hundreds of letters daily – from people of the most diverse backgrounds, occupations, faiths, and beliefs. And today, countless people continue to write to him, sending letters to the Ohel, asking the Rebbe for a blessing, guidance, and intercession, in accordance with the ancient tradition of leaving written requests at holy sites.
When requesting a blessing for oneself or another person, one should include the person’s name (the Jewish name, if available) and the name of the mother (e.g., Yitzchak ben Sarah). For non-Jews, the father’s name is usually indicated. The letter can be written in any language,” states the website www.ohelchabad.org.
You can send your letter:
- • By mail: 226-20 Francis Lewis Boulevard, Cambria Heights, NY 11411 USA
- • By fax: +1 (718) 723-4444
- • By email: [email protected]
- Via the online form
