הקהל את העם…למען ישמעו ולמען ילמדו (וילך לא:יב)

Gather the people…they shall hear and learn to fear Hashem.

The chassid Reb Shaya Raver z”l was known for conducting long Melavah Malka seudos on Motzei Shabbos. When he was asked the reason why, he explained with the following story.

A chassid came to Maran, the Sar Shalom of Belz zt’’l, and shared that he lives in a small town where he is Boruch Hashem successful in business, yet he doesn’t have any satisfaction from his wealth. His townspeople bicker because of jealousy from one another, and there’s hatred among them.

The Sar Shalom advised him to return home and summon everyone to a meeting.  In the Sar Shalom’s name, he should say that the whole town should gather each Motzei Shabbos for Melavah Malka – for this merits achdus – unity between Yidden. And I (The Sar Shalom) assure you it will promote peace and happiness.

The chassid returned home and did what he was told, and from then on, there was peace in town.

Maran Reb Aharon of Belz zt”l once said, “A city whose townsfolk come together for seudas Melavah Malka benefits the whole town!”

Filed under Parshas Vayelech | Reb Aharon of Belz | The Holy Sar Shalom