Yud Tes Kislev - 19th Kislev - is a foundation day in the history of the Chassidic movement which revolutionised the Jewish world in the eighteenth century. But how does it relate to you and me on a daily basis? 

The founder of the Chassidic movement was Rabbi Israel Baal Shem Tov. Although the Baal Shem Tov was tragically orphaned at the age of five, his father Rabbi Eliezer left him two instructions which formed the twin pillars of his life's mission, reverberating to this very day. 

1) Love every Jew no matter his level of observance, even should s/he live at the end of the world, for s/he is a child of G-d who He loves unconditionally. 

2) Fear no one and no thing, apart from G-d alone. 

In Rabbi Eliezer's final words we can understand the presence of Chabad wherever Jews are to be found in the most remote areas of the world, and their unwavering commitment to Judaism against all odds. 

In our shule, I have encouraged commitment to these two pillars through suggesting that we begin every day with the statement, "Behold I accept upon myself the positive commandment of 'You shall love your neighbour as yourself", and conclude every prayer with Al Tirah, Biblical verses that emphasise our lack of fear and Ach Tzaddikim,  a verse from Psalms that underscores the serenity and tranquility of those who dwell in G-d's Presence. 

I believe that Yud Tes Kislev is an appropriate day for everyone to recommit to these two pillars of Judaism whether one identifies as a Chassid or not. 

Rabbi Benzion Milecki OAM