R. Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev

Rabbi Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev is remembered for his fiery service of G‑d, his love for the Jewish people, and his advocacy before the heavenly court on behalf of the Jewish people.

Silently, Rabbi Levi Yitzchak studied the expectant faces. "My brothers!" he said in a respectful tone of voice. "Did we not agree that I was not to be burdened with discussions of old policies?"

Finally, in a dramatic denouement, Levi Yitzchak placed the tallit firmly back in its place and announced: “If you’re a chassid and a scholar, then you lead the prayers!” and stalked back to his seat near the side wall of the synagogue . . .

No one loved his fellow Jews more than R. Levi Yitzchak of Berditchev. This story paints a picture of life in Berditchev of old.

This story helps us appreciate the difference in style and philosophy between Chabad and general Chassidus.

It was the afternoon before Passover, and Rabbi Levi Yitzchak was wandering through the streets of the Jewish quarter seeking out local smugglers . . .

An audio story and lesson from Rabbi Levi Yitzchok of Berditchev

Suddenly the Rebbe turned to the melamed: "If you wish, I will tell you three words of advice. But for each you must pay me in full. For the first, you must give me three hundred rubles..."

The Afternoon Prayer is a special gift to G-d