The founder of Chabad Chassidism, Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi (1745-1812), passed away on the eve of the 24th of Tevet, 5573, at approximately 10:30 pm, shortly after reciting the Havdalah prayer marking the end of the Shabbat. The Rebbe was in the village of Peyena, fleeing Napoleon's armies, which had swept through the Rebbe's hometown of Liadi three months earlier in their advance towards Moscow. He was in his 68th year at the time of his passing, and was succeeded by his son, Rabbi DovBer of Lubavitch.
Link: The Life and Teachings of Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi
A devastating earthquake struck northern Israel, killing four thousand Jews in Safed and between 700 to 1000 Jews in Tiberias. Many of the survivors migrated to Hebron, rejuvenating the developing Chabad community established there 10 years earlier by the second Rebbe of Chabad, Rabbi DovBer of Lubavitch.
One of the first hospitals in America under Jewish direction, Mount Sinai Hospital, was founded in New York on this date in 1852.
Why is Torah compared to light? Because it tells us the place of each thing.
Because, in truth, there is no need to change the world. Everything is here.
Each thing has a place, and in that place it is good. Altogether, it is very good, a beautiful world. All that’s needed is a little light.
What is light? Light doesn't add anything or take away. It only reveals the meaning and purpose of all that it shines upon.
Think of your own home. In the dark, there is no way to know what belongs in your closet and what belongs in the laundry, what is ready for use and what is in need of repair. Instead, that which could be washed or repaired is rejected and despised, and your most valuable possessions may become the greatest hazards.
Switch on one little light and a dangerous place becomes a home. With every light you add, you become suddenly wealthier and more blessed.
So too, this world is meant to be G-d’s home. Torah is light. Shine it bright and heal the world.