A Lesson From Rav Chaim

It’s not so long since the passing of Rav Chaim Kanievsky. As there are many stories going around now. I would like to share a story about Rav Chaim that shows what made him great.

There’s a fellow in Yerushalayim, R’ Shimon Gerlitz who was close to Rav Chaim for the last 4 decades. One day, he went to visit Rav Chaim and the prime minister had come to ask Rav Chaim something. Rechov Rashbam was entirely blocked off and it was over the media. Later R’ Shimon commented to Rav Chaim how it was a great Kiddush hashem. Rav Chaim asked him “which Kiddush hashem?” R’ Shimon explained he’s talking about the one that happened right here. Rav Chaim responded “you’re talking about the Siyum my grandson made today.” he told Rav Chaim he was talking about the prime minister. Rav Chaim had no idea what he was talking about. At the moment – he was busy with it. But after the only thing is Torah, he didn’t remember any of this. One moment that didn’t need to stay in his mind- didn’t. It’s because of that, when he advised something it was coming from purity- his wonders are everlasting.

When a Gadol passes away, it teaches us what we can learn out of him. We can learn what’s the importance and to be kovea itim l’Torah. Hopefully this should be an everlasting effect on us and be an illui neshama.

By Rabbi Shlomo Landau