Mother and daughter; father and son; brother and sister; husband and wife; friend and friend; teacher and pupil. To the varied array of human relationships, the phenomenon and experience of Chassidism has added one more: the bond between the rebbe and the chassid.

The Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson of righteous memory, passed away on the 3rd of the Hebrew month of Tammuz, in the year 5754 (June 12, 1994). This Tuesday, July 5th, we commemorate his yahrtzeit. Traditionally, this is a day for reflection, learning, prayer, positive resolutions and acts of lovingkindness. Many also have the custom to visit and pray at the Ohel, the Rebbe’s holy resting place.

But what is the nature of the rebbe-and-chassid bond?

There is fierce love in it, and unquestioning loyalty. There is passion, devotion, admiration, appreciation, awe, mentorship, care, concern, sacrifice. Almost every human emotion is there, in heightened form.

But can it be described?

Read about how people from all walks of life speak about their relationship with the Rebbe on our page commemorating the Rebbe’s anniversary of passing.

On this special day, let us join together with Jews throughout the world in learning extra Torah, reciting an additional prayer, and giving some extra charity. Let us also try and apply some of the Rebbe’s care and selflessness to our own interactions with family, friends and strangers. There can be no more fitting tribute to the Rebbe than millions of good deeds, performed on his day.

May G‑d help us, in the merit of our collective acts of goodness, to quickly greet the righteous Moshiach.

The Chabad.org Editorial Team