It is related that the Maggid of Mezritch once looked at an earthenware vessel and then told his disciples that it had been made by a man who was blind in his left eye. The disciples checked and verified that indeed the potter was only able to see with his right eye.

Were the Maggid’s statements an expression of ruach hakodesh (Divinely-inspired intuition)?

No. As the Maggid pointed out, the shape of the vessel testified to the characteristics of the person who fashioned it. Still none of the disciples were able to make such a distinction. Apparently, the Maggid’s ruach hakodesh had sensitized his ordinary powers of perception, making it possible for them to ascertain distinctions to which most ordinary people would be oblivious.

Similar concepts apply with regard to the unique dimensions of the Rebbe’s personality. As reflected in many of the stories in this book, the Rebbe’s conduct shows spiritual qualities which most men have not developed. But at least as significant are those stories which show how the Rebbe’s spiritual attainments have shaped those dimensions of his character which are shared by others and which enable him to reflect a unique measure of sensitivity, purpose, and energy.