New Library in Nosson’s Memory

A new library has been established in the dormitory of Yeshiva Ohr Elchonon Chabad, Los Angeles. The Library has been dedicated in part to the memory of HaTomim Nosson Notte Deitsch obm, who served as a Shliach in the Yeshiva from Elul 5768 until Av 5769 and was tragically torn from our midst on Lag BeOmer 5770.

It has also been dedicated in part to the memory of Yitzchak Nassi obm by his family. The custom built cabinet, which houses the library, was dedicated in memory of Rebbitzin Soroh Rochel Schochet, the late wife of the Rosh HaYeishiva, by members of her family.

The library actually began to develop early this year as the brainchild of one of the Shluchim, as a way to encourage Bochurim to read Chassidishe stories in their free time and especially before going to sleep at night. For many months the steadily growing library was temporarily housed in a cupboard in the room of one of the Shluchim, and due to limited funds no thought was given to establishing the library as a central feature within the dormitory. However with the passing of Nosson, his fellow Shluchim decided that this would be an extremely appropriate way to ensure that the tremendous impact which Nosson made during his time in the Yeshiva would be remembered.

Nosson was best known for his exemplary Ahavas Yisroel and his fluent knowledge of all fifty three chapters of Tanya by-heart. What is not so well known, is that he had a special enthusiasm for Chassidishe stories. Those who knew him in his younger years testify that before even entering Yeshivah Ketana he had already completed the entire Lekutai Dibburim and in subsequent years he methodically read through all the Sichas of the Friediker Rebbe. Often, when he came across a story or vort of special interest, he would point it out to his roommates, reading it aloud with his customary exuberance.

The library is split into two sections; the larger section, “Sepurei Chassidim” [Chassidic Stories], is devoted to Nosson’s memory; the smaller section, “Divrei Yemai Yisroel” [Jewish History] is devoted to Yitzchok Nassi.

Recently a collection of notes and explanations on Tanya was published in Nosson’s memory, in the foreword a story that Nosson would often tell – and which says much about Nosson’s own character – was transcribed:

“There was once a Chossid who lived in the city of Odessa. The Chossid traveled to his Rebbe and was received in Yechidus. The Rebbe asked him, “what’s happening in Odessa?” and the Chossid began to detail the wonderful spirit of unity that rested amongst the Chassidim there, their commitment to their regular study sessions and generally offered generous praise of their conduct. The Rebbe was very pleased with this news and enthusiastically bestowed on this Chossid special blessing.

Another Chossid who also dwelt in Odessa was also present. He – unlike his predecessor – decided to tell the Rebbe the whole truth… and indeed when the Rebbe interested himself in the affairs of Oddesa the Chossid told of the arguments and divisiveness, which were tearing at the Chassidic community, the lack of commitment to Divine service etc. It was apparent that the Rebbe was not enamored with the way he was speaking and the Rebbe blessed him somewhat coldly.

The Chossid didn’t understand, hadn’t he conducted himself in the best possible manner? Had he told anything less than the exact truth? Gathering all his courage, he asked, “Rebbe, my friend who entered previously did not answer truthfully, and yet the Rebbe treated him with warmth and encouragement. Why then does the Rebbe treat me, who told only the truth, with such disinterest and detachment?

Answered the Rebbe, “What is it that you fail to understand? What’s happening in Odessa I know myself, for that I have no need of anyone’s testimony. My question was not “what’s happening in Odessa”, but rather, “What’s happening with you?!”…”

It would not be a mistake to say that this story clearly defines Nosson’s own personality.

For Nosson it didn’t make a difference where he was, amongst which friends he was with, or what kind of circumstances he happened to find himself – he always saw only the good aspects of the situation, the value and worth of each individual, that which was unique and special in the present moment or situation… essentially, he always found the good in everything. He is the one who is remembered by all of us, steadfast in his stance, like a live flame of fire, with that special enthusiasm that was unique to him – the one who set the tone and created an atmosphere.

The words of the Rebbe, “a Chossid macht a svivah” [“A chossid creates an atmosphere”] (“Hayom Yom” 30th Adar 1) defined his personality. For us, his friends and acquaintances, Nosson was the personification of the very concept of “liveliness”; the epitomization of a Chossid and a Mekusher, who stands ready and prepared at all times; the one who could always be relied on to set the right tone in any situation.

Yhai Zichroi Boruch.

To donate to the library please contact Shimi Piekarski on 347 410 3372