On two occasions the Rebbe had specific instructions published in advance of Tisha B’Av. In two manuscripts that have been graciously provided to A Chassidisher Derher Magazine by the Raskin Family Archive, the Rebbe’s extensive revisions are prominently noticeable.
In one instance an advertisement was placed by the Rebbe’s mazkirus in the Algemeiner Journal detailing the Rebbe’s instructions for Tisha B’Av. On another occasion in 5746 the Rebbe gave a number of directives at the farbrengen on Shabbos Chazon and they were subsequently given out as a press-release.
The Rebbe suggested that on Tisha B’Av we should:
Give extra tzedakah, especially before shacharis and mincha.
Learn more of the Torah subjects that one may learn on Tisha B’Av according to Shulchan Aruch (which includes the Tzemach Tzedek’s reshimos on Eicha). Where possible, organize shifts to study during the entire 24-hour period (but in a way that will not harm anyone’s health, bearing in mind the fast).
Increase activities of mivtza tefillin (during the hours when tefillin may be worn on Tisha B’Av).
In 5746 the Rebbe encouraged that In connection with the days in which Yidden mourn for the churban Beis Hamikdash and the bitter galus, every Jew should make a special effort during these days in the study of Torah ([mishpat-]“justice”), especially the halachos ([mishpatim] “laws”) in Torah, and in the giving of tzedakah.
In order for everyone to have an honest idea of the extent of their Torah-study and mitzvah observance, and in order to strengthen their aspiration to improve, the Rebbe suggested and requested that everyone appoint a mashpia (or enhance their connection with their existing mashpia) to whom they will give reports throughout the year and who will test them on what they learn and do.
The Rebbe emphasized that this applies especially to yeshiva bochurim: they should apply themselves to their learning and increase in it. In order to strengthen their diligence, there should be an increase in tests, so that summertime won’t, chas v’shalom, be a vacation, but rather the diligence in learning will increase.
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