“Kaleidoscope: Uplifting Views on Daily Life” aims to give readers a brief glimpse of the Rebbe’s approach to a broad range of topics. Published by Hasidic Archives, the book is part of the popular Advice for Life series, well known for its crisp design and easy-to-read format.
“The Rebbe applied Torah’s values and ideals to modern life in a way that made Judaism relevant and vital for a new generation,” Dovid Zaklikowski writes in the introduction.
“Often, he began with a well-known concept, and by questioning its premise or drawing an unexpected connection, revealed a hidden meaning and a potent lesson for daily life. To his listeners, learning from the Rebbe was like looking through a kaleidoscope. Each small turn brought a new pattern into view—vivid, intricate and radiating light.”
Accompanied by photos from the archives, many published for the first time, the book covers over 75 topics such as anti-Semitism, racism and wealth. Each entry includes an introduction with a brief synopsis of the Rebbe’s approach to the subject followed by a quote from the Rebbe’s teachings.
“At times, the backlog of correspondence on the Rebbe’s desk was huge,” reads the introduction to Apology. “After the most urgent letters, the Rebbe prioritized those from people who were not Chabad followers. ‘My disciples will understand the delay; others might feel slighted,’ he once told his aide Dr. Nissan Mindel.
“In the 1980s, the backlog reached new heights. When one individual did not receive a prompt response, he complained to one of the Rebbe’s aides. The Rebbe immediately wrote to him, ‘Let me say at once that your complaints are completely justified.’ Adding that he pleaded ‘guilty without explanation,’ he asked the man’s forgiveness. The man was shocked at the Rebbe’s humility and felt that he should not have complained. He wrote again, begging the Rebbe’s pardon.”
The Rebbe’s response appears on the facing page: “Surely there was never a greater man than Moses, who, when his elder brother Aaron corrected a ruling he had made, admitted that he was right, ‘and was not ashamed.’ Rather, when Aaron corrected him, ‘Moses heard and it pleased him’ (Leviticus 10:20).
The entry on conflict describes a long-running correspondence the Rebbe had with acclaimed sculptor Jacques Lipchitz regarding a specific area of Jewish law: “Though the Rebbe was famous for the unconditional acceptance and love he showed to all Jews, he was careful never to let this attitude lead to compromises in Jewish observance or belief.”
“I am not G-d’s policeman,” the Rebbe wrote to Lipchitz. “Yet I consider it my duty to exert my influence to prevent a Jew from doing something which, in my opinion, is not recommendable. On the other hand, it is my policy to seek out points of agreement rather than disagreement. Since we have reached an impasse in our discussion, I prefer to turn my attention to points of mutual agreement.”
The book is dedicated by Rabbi Zushe Wilhelm in honor of the wedding of Moishe and Mashee Begun. Sources for each entry are provided.
Kaleidoscope is available at your local Judaica Store, on Amazon Prime or in bulk from [email protected].
Got a copy at Judaica World… a great read… stunning photos.. thanks for posting.
I kick up my feet in the morning, While enjoying a Cafe’ Latte… I reach for the “Kaleidoscope”, and I’m ready to take on any challenge that face that day!
It’s a beauty, and sure to be a hit for the Shluchim worldwide, for a quick reference guide for their sermons on any subject.
Your greatest fan:
AP, “The Brit”
I love the design, can’t wait to get a copy
I have it on my night table, read in twice already and I feel that I could read it over and over again.