The first words of thanks are due to Al-mighty G‑d. King Shlomo writes: “Man’s heart produces numerous [options of] presentation, yet successful delivery is formulated from G‑d.”1 The present form of this volume, a collaborative effort aimed at providing a comprehensive presentation of Chassidus, is beyond any one of our individual capabilities. We are humbled by the Divine Providence that has accompanied this project at every stage of its development and production.

Heartfelt tribute is due to the Rebbe, who beyond teaching us a wealth of Chassidus has impassioned us with its message and mission. The merit to serve as his Shluchim is something we are truly grateful for.

This first of its kind collection of Chassidus is a project of Sichos in English. To each member of the publishing team, we owe a most heartfelt thank you:

To our copyeditor, Rabbi Yankel Oster, for giving this work your fullest investment, diligence, and uncompromising excellence;

To Malki Lavine, for your expert editorial input which has greatly enhanced this volume;

To Mrs. Ellen Applebaum and Moussia Lesches, for your careful proofreading and attention to detail;

To Yosef Yitzchok Turner, for your meticulous typesetting and unabating investment in this volume’s quality; the exacting detail in every page and reference is to your credit;

To Uri Kaploun, whose glossaries from the Malamud edition of Sefer HaSichos have been a valuable resource;

To Mrs. Mushkie Loschak, for your capable coordination of the publishing;

To Rivkah Katz, and David Hendler, for your assistance in preparing the foreword;

Finally, to Rabbi Shmuel Avtzon, director of Sichos in English. Beyond coordinating the entire project and guiding it at every step along the way, your valuable input in both presentation and content has greatly enhanced the final product.

Our most significant thanks is due to Moshe Muchnik and the entire team at Spotlight Design for crafting the format of this unique work. The pleasant design and beautiful cover truly enhance this volume and open it up to be well appreciated by all.



Rabbi Dubov would like to recognize a number of people whose assistance have been vital to this project:

Firstly, a huge thanks to Mr. & Mrs. Ricardo and Leia Leiman for their friendship and support. May G‑d bless them and their family both materially and spiritually.

A heartfelt thank you also to Rabbi Doniel Shimon Golomb for preparing the forerunner of this edition and for his devotion to the project.

Finally, to my wife Sarah and family for their constant support and encouragement. May we continue to disseminate the teachings of Chassidus and greet Mashiach now, Amen.



Rabbi Pewzner would like to recognize the entire administration, faculty, and student body of the Rabbinical College of America of Morristown, New Jersey. Of both Tomchei Temimim and Tiferes Bachurim programs, your unwavering encouragement, enlightening input, and genuine interest have been indispensable. You have been an ever-present sounding board for ideas, careful readers of the more challenging segments, and an incredibly supportive environment throughout every stage of this project.

So many friends, colleagues, and students have made their mark in this work, yet it is impossible to list them all. Of particular mention are Don Moshe Coleman, Menachem Wagner, Nosson Abram, Yitzchok Ezagui, Meir Avtzon, and Rabbi Elisha Nochum Pearl.

The debt of gratitude to my parents, Rabbi Shmuel and Sara Pewzner of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, is immeasurable. Your wholehearted, personal investment in my Torah education has been most formative. Undoubtedly, so much of this book is credit to your efforts.

To my in-laws, Rabbi Yossi and Dina Levertov of Scottsdale, Arizona, thank you for your constant encouragement, genuine interest, and valuable counsel.

Finally, to my wife Risa, thank you. Your thoughtful wisdom, unwavering support, and resourceful accommodation have facilitated my part in this project at every step of the way.



Let us conclude with a word of thanks to the readers. Thank you for joining us on this journey into “The Basics of Chassidus.” Our intention in publishing this volume is not for personal expression, but for the benefit and appreciation of the public. It is you who makes it all worthwhile. Indeed, may the knowledge, inspiration, and motivation gained from this book serve as a final catalyst for the true and ultimate Geulah.

Rabbi Nissan Dovid Dubov
Chabad of Wimbledon, England

Rabbi Naftoli Hertz Pewzner
Rabbinical College of AmericaYeshivas Tomchei Temimim Lubavitch Morristown, NJ