The 19th day of the Hebrew month of Kislev is celebrated as the "Rosh Hashanah of Chassidism." It was on this date, in the year 1798, that the founder of Chabad Chassidism, Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi (1745-1812), was freed from his imprisonment in Czarist Russia. More than a personal liberation, this was a watershed event in the history of Chassidism, heralding a new era in the revelation of the "inner soul" of Torah.What does this mean for you practically? In your area there is probably a Chabad House or Chabad Center which is holding a farbrengen. The event will probably take place [Sunday] night, and it will probably not cost anything to attend. Any Jew will be welcome, even someone who does not consider himself to be very religious, and the proceedings will involve eating, drinking vodka, singing Chassidic melodies, and hearing an inspirational speaker. So if you have ever wanted to look into some kind of greater Jewish involvement, this would be a very good opportunity. Even if you are already satisfied with your involvement with Judaism, if you have never been to a farbrengen, you should certainly find it a novel and enjoyable experience.
Tags: Chassidus, Farbrengen
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