Re: Is the Lubavith Rebbe Mashiach?
Newman,Saul Z (Saul.Z.Newman@kp.ORG)
Fri, 21 Nov 1997 08:42:52 -0800
Just a few comments on the issue of the Rebbe-which raises passions on all
sides of the issue: 1) we can all agree that there is a continuous
obligation for more tora and mitzvot(commandments) no matter who is the
mashiach 2) the issue is only relevant if Halacha is violated as a
result.For example, if Hasidim would be G-d forbid worshiping the rebbe as
a Divinity, I assume this would be a form of avoda zara ( idolatry). 3) To
my knowledge, there is as yet no difference in halachic practice between
those who believe the rebbe is messiah and those who don't-- other than the
de rigour " yechi hamelech". ( the chant Long Live King Messiah Rebbe) 4)I
don't know of Halachic decision by a Habad Rabbinical court saying one
position or the other is incorrect.( Halachic decision by a non-Lubavitch
authority is irrelevant in the same way that, e.g. Satmar is not bound by a
decision of the Chief Rabbinate of Israel and visa versa) 5) As to the
opinion of non-Habad authorities, note the opinion of R' Keller, in the
75th anniversary issue of the Jewish Observer--who not only condemns
meshichism but calls on Aguda forces worldwide to aid the beleagered
anti-Meshichistim(non-Messianics) in their communities. 6) One hopes that
this is an argument for the sake of heaven. If it is just another example
of the lack of ahavat yisrael( love of fellow jews), it would help explain
further why the geula (redemption) is not yet here. May Hashem send the
Reedeemer NOW--and I don't care whether he will be Satmar, the Rebbe , OU ,
YU, Mizrachist, Agudist, etc.