Gaon Yanuka – Advice and Segulot for Various Life Circumstances
We have compiled the advice and segulot of Gaon Rabbi Shlomo Yehuda Be'eri, which he gave in response to questions from congregants at the Beit Knesset.
1. Relief from Troubles and Difficulties
Question:
How should one respond to troubles, difficulties, and anxieties that overwhelm a person in our challenging times?
Answer:
Strengthen yourself through Torah study, which serves as a remedy for all troubles. The Rav cited the words of Ateret Tzvi – Rabbi Tzvi Hirsch of Zidichov, who explained the words of the Mishnah in Pirkei Avot: “Whoever accepts upon himself the yoke of Torah is relieved of the yoke of government and the yoke of worldly concerns.”
He explained that for anyone who strengthens himself in Torah, his problems are “unloaded,” just as a truck unloads all its cargo onto the ground. There are angels appointed to take away these problems and remove them from a person while he engages in Torah study.
Therefore, Gaon Yanuka urged people to deepen their Torah knowledge—either by dedicating themselves to a tractate of the Talmud and studying it thoroughly with its commentaries, or by working through several sections of the Beit Yosef and the Shulchan Aruch, together with both the primary and later commentaries. He assured them that these efforts in Torah would free them from their troubles. He concluded with the words of the holy Gaon, Rabbi Menachem Mendel of Kotzk:
“Do not tell G-d how great your troubles are; tell your troubles how great G-d is.”
2. Shalom Bayit
Question:
A Jewish man asked for a blessing for “Shalom Bayit”—peace in the home.
Answer:
The Gaon advised him to pray Shacharit at neitz (sunrise) on the coming Shabbat and, when he reached the words “Oseh Shalom Bimromav” (“He who makes peace in His heavens”), to direct his intention toward the Almighty, asking Him to establish peace between him and his wife. The Rav shared that he had given this advice to a man who was on the verge of divorce that very day. Miraculously, the Jewish man later returned to report that the situation had been resolved thanks to the Rav’s advice.
The Rav also emphasized the great merit of studying Sefer HaMidot (The Book of Traits) by Rabbi Nachman of Breslov (it is available in Russian), a book that he widely distributes. The Rav explained that studying it opens all gates, especially the gates of sustenance, since its study is a special blessing for prosperity.
3. Seudah Shlishit
A descendant of the holy Rav Sar Shalom of Belz was visiting Gaon Yanuka. He told a story about Rav Sar Shalom, who once needed to light his pipe but had no matches nearby. Rav Sar Shalom simply moved his hand, and sparks appeared, enabling him to light the pipe. Gaon Yanuka added that Rav Sar Shalom was known as the “Little Baal Shem Tov,” because he performed miracles like the holy Baal Shem Tov.
Later, a discussion arose about a teaching studied in Gaon Yanuka’s kollel, found in several works of halachic authorities who cite the Zohar. It states that whoever does not participate in the third Shabbat meal (“Seudah Shlishit”) is as though he did not eat the first and second Shabbat meals. However, they noted that they had not found this teaching in the Zohar HaKadosh. Gaon Yanuka replied that this depends on the edition. The teaching does appear in some older editions, and it was quoted by the Maggid of Kozhnitz in the name of the Zohar.
He then related how he once told his students, citing the Zohar, that Chanukah is referred to as a “mo'ed” (festival). His students searched for this source in the Zohar and could not find it until he showed them an old edition in which it was explicitly written. He explained that there are significant differences between editions, much like the statement attributed to the Jerusalem Talmud and quoted by the Rema: “One who sleeps on Rosh Hashanah causes his fortune to sleep.” Later authorities wrote that this source cannot be found in the Jerusalem Talmud as we know it today.
4. Raw Onion
Question:
Should one refrain from eating raw onion, as is attributed to the holy Rebbe Nachman of Breslov?
Answer:
The Gaon answered that the main concern relates specifically to white onions, not green or purple onions.
Later, the Gaon spoke about the significance of the holy book Kav HaYashar by Rabbi Tzvi-Hirsch Kaidanover. This book contains much moral guidance and advice on how to truly serve the Almighty, blessed be He.
Moreinu added that anyone who struggles with clarity or integrity of thought can greatly benefit from studying Kav HaYashar.
5. Yirat Shamayim (Fear of Heaven)
Question:
At a Bar Mitzvah, the boy’s father asked Gaon Yanuka how one can attain Yirat Shamayim.
Answer:
The Gaon answered that studying topics related to fear of Heaven is the path to acquiring it. The Gaon quoted the introduction to the laws of Shabbat in the Mishnah Berurah, which mentions Rav Yonatan Eybeschutz, who wrote that anyone who does not study the laws of Shabbat will inevitably desecrate it.
He said that the Chazon Ish advised every person to study the area in which he feels deficient. Therefore, those who sense a lack of Yirat Shamayim should study books that discuss it, and through this they will truly develop fear of Heaven.
Afterward, Gaon Yanuka explained the essence of Yirat Shamayim (fear of Heaven). He referred to the Ramchal, who taught that someone troubled by foreign thoughts should envision Heaven, which will help dispel those thoughts. In addition, the holy Rabbi Aharon Roth advised anyone struggling with improper thoughts to go outside under the open sky, as this immediately neutralizes such thoughts.
6. Brit Milah
Question:
During a Brit Milah ceremony, the Gaon was asked about the widespread belief that the sins of everyone who attends a Brit Milah are forgiven.
Answer:
Gaon Yanuka answered that this idea comes not from the Talmud but from the Midrash HaGadol of the sages of Yemen. This text states that Eliyahu HaNavi cannot bear being near anyone who carries sin, yet he is compelled to attend every Brit Milah. Therefore, the Almighty, blessed be He, forgives the sins of those present, enabling Eliyahu HaNavi to be there.
The Gaon recalled the holy brothers—Rabbi Zusha of Anipoli and Rabbi Elimelech of Lizhensk—who made great efforts to attend many circumcisions in order to merit forgiveness for their sins.
Gaon Yanuka then explained the mystical significance of binding tefillin on the arm. The arms symbolize action and the work a person performs with his hands. By connecting the physical with the spiritual—through tefillin—a person accepts the divine yoke, dedicating his heart and mind to the Almighty. As written in the Shulchan Aruch, section 25, when putting on the arm tefillin, one should focus on dedicating one’s heart to the Creator, and with the head tefillin, on dedicating one’s mind.
On Shabbat, however, when no work is performed, the material sphere is set aside and divine revelation is complete. There is therefore no need to connect the physical with the spiritual through tefillin, since everything is a pure manifestation of the Divine.
7. Livelihood
Question:
A blessing for livelihood.
Answer:
Gaon Yanuka advised being especially careful to eat bread during the fourth Shabbat meal, “Melaveh Malkah.” Although halachah permits supplementing this meal with other types of food, it is traditionally taught in the name of Rabbi Elimelech of Lizhensk that one who does not eat bread during Melaveh Malkah should not be surprised if no sustenance comes to him during the week.
8. Hachnasat Orchim (Hospitality)
Question:
One congregant asked the Gaon how Avraham Avinu could leave the Divine Presence to go and speak with Arab guests, as Rashi explains in his commentary.
Answer:
Gaon Yanuka answered that they were actually angels, as written in the Jerusalem Talmud, and Avraham knew that they were angels. He cited the verse: “Let a little water be brought, wash your feet, and rest beneath the tree.” Avraham could simply have said, “and sit beneath the tree,” but he specifically said, “and lean beneath the tree.” He saw that they had no “joints” in their legs, since angels have “one straight leg” and no joints (Yechezkel 1:7). Therefore, he told them to lean against the tree for support.
The rabbi replied: “From here we learn that welcoming guests is greater than receiving the Divine Presence.”
Later, several rabbis from the Gur Hasidic community arrived, and Gaon Yanuka engaged them in a profound discussion about the holy sage Rabbi Shalom Shabazi, known as the first Rashash, predecessor of the Rashash, Rabbi Shalom Sharabi. Moreinu related a story about Rabbi Shalom Shabazi, who possessed a special handwritten book containing his secrets and Torah interpretations. Once, when the king became angry with Rabbi Shalom, he confiscated the book. That night, black snakes emerged from the book and coiled around the king, forcing him to apologize and return the book to Rabbi Shalom. Gaon Yanuka added that the Almighty sent this very manuscript to the Gaon—it is the same book from which the snakes crawled out, and he now keeps it in his library.
9. Throat Problems and Chanukah
Question:
A Jewish man asked what to do about persistent throat problems and continuous coughing without any apparent cause. He had consulted doctors and undergone examinations and scans, but no treatment had brought relief.
Answer:
The Rav told him: “Study the laws of Chanukah, and you will experience a complete recovery.”
Indeed, as the verse says: “He fulfills the desires of those who fear Him,” and blessed be the Almighty, the man began studying the laws of Chanukah, and his cough disappeared as though it had never existed.
10. Passion for Torah
Question:
How can one develop a desire and passion for Torah study?
Answer:
Gaon Yanuka answered that in order to develop a passion for Torah, one must first understand its essence. He explained this through an analogy: if someone encounters a hidden code, it may seem dull or meaningless. But if he understands that the code contains the key to opening a safe filled with treasures, it suddenly becomes fascinating. Similarly, someone who views the Torah as a book containing the deepest secrets of creation and the path to serving the Almighty will naturally be drawn to it. He will constantly seek to study Torah in order to uncover the Creator’s true will and the path to achieving his ultimate purpose.
One who studies Torah from this perspective will never forget his learning, because he will understand the true value of Torah.
[After the outdoor prayer, heavy rain began to fall. Gaon Yanuka noted that the holy Gaon, Rabbi Pinchas of Koretz, taught that rain immediately following prayer is a sign that the prayer has been accepted.]
11. Choosing a Name
Question:
What should one name a daughter?
Answer:
Gaon Yanuka advised that ideally one should choose a name with a tradition spanning generations, rather than new names without a historical foundation. He added that if there is a problem with a name, it is preferable to rearrange its letters than to eradicate the name entirely. Eradicating a name carries great risks and may harm a person, G-d forbid. Rearranging the letters is also considered a change of name, since the holy Zohar explains that even the order of the letters is highly significant. Moreinu emphasized that in such matters one should consult an expert Torah scholar who understands these concepts, since not everyone is qualified to make such decisions.
12. The Cave of Machpelah
Gaon Yanuka mentioned the statement in the Zohar HaKadosh that after the death of Moshe Rabbeinu, the ministering angels brought him to the Cave of Machpelah. Moreinu noted that “Machpelah” has the numerical value of 175, corresponding to the number of years Avraham Avinu lived, since the cave was created specifically so that he would acquire it. Moreinu emphasized the great spiritual merit of visiting the Cave of Machpelah.
13. A Blessing for Healing
The Gaon blessed a Jewish man with a complete recovery and mentioned that there are 2 tzadikim whose merit is especially effective for healing.
- Rabbi Yoel Sirkis—the Bach, author of Bayit Chadash, of whom it is said that even during his lifetime, sick people traveled from afar to see him, and upon seeing the radiance of his face, they were immediately healed.
- Rabbi Shmuel Eliezer Edels—the Maharsha, whose merit is likewise powerful for a complete recovery. The segula is here:
/сгула-гаона-янука-для-рефуа-шлема/
14. Lashon HaKodesh (The Holy Tongue)
Question:
If it is more comfortable to speak one’s native language than Lashon HaKodesh, which should one choose?
Answer:
The Gaon recalled the greatness of speaking in “Lashon HaKodesh” (the Holy Tongue) and emphasized the importance of refraining from speaking other languages when possible. However, he added that ideally, those who are able should strive to speak in Lashon HaKodesh, since the power of speech is enormously significant.
15. Investing in Stocks
Question:
Which stocks will rise and which will not, so as to avoid losses?
Answer:
The Gaon answered that there is only one “stock” that, if you invest in it, will never fall but will only rise. The Jewish man was very intrigued to learn what this “stock” was, and Moreinu told him: “Torah”—invest in Torah and in serving the Almighty; this is a stock that will never fall.
16. A Legal Case
Question:
If there is a dispute between partners or a legal case, what should one read?
Answer:
The Gaon answered that anyone with a legal case in which he wishes to succeed should recite Tehillim 25, as this is a segula for success in court.
17. Birthday
Question:
A man approached and said that it was his birthday.
Answer:
Gaon Yanuka blessed him and said that the Jerusalem Talmud (Rosh Hashanah, chapter 3, halachah 8) states that on a person’s birthday, his mazal rises and is strengthened. Therefore, this day is considered auspicious, even suitable for going into battle, since victory is assured.
Yanuka also mentioned that this custom concerning birthdays was established by the Ben Ish Chai (Parashat Re'eh, section 17). He then related the practice of the holy “Yismach Moshe,” Rabbi Moshe Teitelbaum, who would go to the cemetery every year on his birthday, put on burial shrouds, lie down in an empty plot, and engage in deep introspection. He reflected on the purpose of his life, considering how another year had passed and how he was drawing closer to the day of his death. This self-examination was intended to inspire him to focus on his ultimate purpose and dedicate the coming year to serving the Almighty properly.
18. Buying a Home
Question:
How can one buy a home in our difficult times, given the high cost of living?
Answer:
Gaon Yanuka answered that a person should contemplate the Beit HaMikdash and engage in Tikkun Chatzot. By feeling pain over the absence of the Almighty’s House, the Almighty will, measure for measure, give him a home.
Yanuka then commented on a verse from Parashat Beshalach stating that the manna was “thin like frost on the ground.” He explained that this alludes to precious stones and jewels that descended together with the manna, making it sparkle like frost and shine like brilliant hail. Thus, when the Israelites asked, “Mah hu?” (What is it?), they were wondering about the source of the extraordinary radiance emanating from the precious stones accompanying the manna.
19. Rabbeinu Tam Tefillin
Question:
After Shacharit, a question was asked about a teaching attributed to the holy Rav of Komarno, which states that it is beneficial to put on Rabbeinu Tam tefillin while reciting “Uva LeTzion.” The question was whether this applied specifically to “Uva LeTzion” recited during the prayer service, or whether the same merit is attained by reciting it again after the service.
Answer:
Gaon Yanuka explained that the primary merit lies in reciting “Uva LeTzion” during the prayer service itself, because Kaddish Titkabal has not yet been recited, and according to Abudarham, until this Kaddish is recited, the prayer has not fully ascended. Therefore, putting on Rabbeinu Tam tefillin precisely at this moment is significant.
20. Breech Presentation
Question:
A Jewish man approached Gaon Yanuka with a question about what to do if tests showed that the fetus was in a breech position.
Answer:
Gaon Yanuka advised reciting one chapter of Megillat Esther daily, explaining that the secret of the Megillah lies in its power to bring about a reversal—“ve-nahafokh hu” (it was turned upside down)—and this can bring about a similar turning for the fetus.
Yanuka shared a personal story about his daughter, whose prenatal tests showed that she was in a breech position. Although it was not Purim at the time, Yanuka delivered a special shiur about the holiday of Purim and the concept of ve-nahafokh hu, as mentioned in the Megillah. He discussed in detail numerous examples of paradoxes and reversals found in the Talmud and Midrashim. During the shiur, his wife and another expectant mother whose fetus was in a breech position listened from the women’s section. Both women felt fetal movement during the lesson, and medical tests the following day confirmed that both fetuses had turned into the proper position.
Another segula for breech presentation:
/сгула-рава-фишера-при-тазовом-предлеж/
21. When a Person Is in Distress
Question:
How should a person pray when he is in distress?
Answer:
Gaon Yanuka Shlita said that for a person in distress, there is a segula cited in earlier sources:
- Tehillim 20—three times a day;
- Tehillim 13—thirteen times a day.
However, Gaon Yanuka noted that it is even better to devote this time to Torah study, since Torah study certainly brings salvation, rather than merely serving as a “segula.”
During the opening of the ark, Gaon Yanuka said that there are three things for which the Jewish people must repent, since they bring serious accusations in Heaven:
- The sin of the Golden Calf,
- The disrespect shown toward Moshe Rabbeinu,
- The murder of the prophet Zechariah.
Moreinu added that when Rav Moshe Aharon of Brody, a genius and holy man who wrote commentaries on Levushei Serad, arrived in Eretz Yisrael, the first thing he did was visit the grave of the prophet Zechariah to ask forgiveness on behalf of all Israel for his murder.
Later, the Yanuka Gaon was honored with the privilege of lifting the Torah scroll. He noted that in the past, Torah scrolls were smaller and easier to lift, whereas today they are much heavier. The Gaon explained that in the time of Chazal, they knew how to use the holy Name to make heavy objects light. This was the method used by the builders of the Beit HaMikdash to raise enormous stones to great heights—something that human strength alone could not accomplish.
22. Prayer at Netz (Dawn)
Question:
How can one train oneself to get up and pray at dawn?
Answer:
He explained that in matters of holiness, the main difficulty lies in getting started. The Gaon advised that if someone has been accustomed to rising late for a long time and wants to strengthen himself and begin getting up for Netz (dawn), he should proceed gradually. Trying to undertake a commitment to wake up for Netz every day for an entire month without missing a day will most likely lead to burnout—you may succeed for the first two days, but by the third day you will give up. Instead, one should begin slowly and gradually. Start by waking up for Netz on Mondays and Thursdays, and then gradually add more days until it becomes a regular habit.
Speaking about the greatness of praying at Netz HaChamah, the Gaon quoted Rabbi Jonathan Eybeschutz, who wrote in “Alon Bahut on Lamentation” that if the Jewish people had prayed at sunrise on Tisha B'Av, the Temple would not have been destroyed.
23. Animals
Question:
Is it true that someone who raises pigeons at home suffers from various ailments and weaknesses?
Answer:
The Gaon replied that keeping animals at home is not ideal. The main concern with raising animals at home is the prohibition against causing tza'ar ba'alei chayim (unnecessary suffering). Therefore, one must ensure that the pigeons do not suffer in any way. Conversely, if a person does not cause the pigeons suffering, he should not give them to someone else until he is certain that the new owner will be at least as careful.
24. Chibut HaKever
Question:
The Yanuka Gaon was asked whether there is a source in the writings of the earlier sages (Kadmonim) that someone who dies on Motzaei Shabbat (Saturday night) is spared Chibut HaKever (the suffering in the grave) because the holiness of Shabbat continues.
Answer:
The Gaon replied that the Kadmonim contain no explicit source for this. However, contemporary authorities have written that it is reasonable to assume this, similar to what is said about someone who dies on Erev Shabbat after midday—when the radiance of Shabbat spares him from Chibut HaKever. Thus, it is logical to extend this to Motzaei Shabbat, although there is no explicit source for it in the earlier writings.
25. Honey Water for Hamtakat HaDinim
During his daily practice of distributing honey to congregants in remembrance of the manna (“its taste was like honey cakes”), the Gaon shared a teaching of the Ba'al Shem Tov. The Ba'al Shem Tov gave people honey mixed with water as a segula to sweeten harsh decrees. The Yanuka added that he had read this in very old, worm-eaten books. With a smile, he remarked that while studying these books, he felt that he and the worms were learning together.
26. Hair Loss
Question:
What should one do about hair loss?
Answer:
The Yanuka Gaon explained that hair often falls out because of fear, and recommended reciting the following pesukim daily:
- אל תירא מפחד פתאום ומשואת רשעים כי תבוא
“Al tira mi-pachad pit'om, u'misho'at resha'im ki tavo” – [3 times]
(Do not fear sudden terror or the calamity of the wicked when it comes); (Mishlei 3:25) - עוצו עצה ותופר, דברו דבר ולא יקום כי עמנו א-ל
“Utsu etzah ve-tufar, dabru davar ve-lo yakum, ki imanu El” – [3 times]
(The enemies of Israel devise plots, but they will be frustrated; they conspire, but nothing will come of it—for G-d is with us); (Yeshayahu 8:10)
The Gaon concluded that, with the help of the Almighty, this would bring relief.
27. The Mysticism of Berachot
The Yanuka Gaon spoke about the importance of reciting blessings over fragrant spices. He shared a tradition attributed to Rabbi Tzvi Elimelech of Dinov, which encourages reciting all the blessings on fragrances every day, such as:
- “Borei atzei besamim” (Who creates fragrant trees);
- “Borei isvei besamim” (Who creates fragrant herbs);
- “Borei minei besamim” (Who creates various kinds of fragrances);
- “Ha-noten rei'ach tov ba-perot” (Who gives fruit its fragrance).
The Yanuka Gaon practices these blessings after “Kaddish Titkabel” in the prayer service following “Uva LeTzion.” He noted that this practice has mystical significance, as it corresponds to the ascent of the prayers, as explained by Abudraham. He clarified that at this moment there is a profound connection with the sense of smell and blessings on fragrances, emphasizing their great spiritual value.
/теилим-150-и-брахот-на-запахи/
28. Which Decision Is Right?
Question:
How can one receive clear guidance in times of uncertainty regarding life-changing decisions?
Answer:
The Gaon advised reciting Psalm 23 with deep concentration and intention, focusing especially on the request that the Almighty guide one “along paths of righteousness” and show the correct path.
29. Parnassah Tovah
Question:
How can one merit an increase in one's livelihood in this world?
Answer:
The Gaon replied that studying “Tanna Devei Eliyahu” is a well-known segula for livelihood. In addition, he emphasized the importance of partaking in the “Seudat Revi'it” (the fourth meal after Shabbat), which is also a segula for wealth.
30. Problems and Adversity
Question:
One morning after Shacharit, several Jews approached the Yanuka Gaon and shared their problems and troubles.
Answer:
Morenu replied that every difficulty conceals a great secret: in the end, all trials will be transformed into complete goodness. He noted that the Hebrew word מניעות (obstacles) contains the same letters as נעימות (pleasantness), emphasizing that one need only rearrange the letters. Whoever understands this can transform any difficulty into light and any hardship into a window of opportunity, a “צֹהַר.”
[Incidentally, according to this same principle, the word “צֹהַר” (a window, light at the end of the tunnel) appears in the piyut “Adon Olam” by rearranging the letters of the word “צרה” (trouble)].
Later that same day, rare and old books were brought to the Gaon. Looking through them, the Rav discovered an old edition of “Levush.” The Gaon was amazed by the Divine providence: only a few minutes earlier, he had lit a candle lekhvod Rabbi Mordechai Jaffe, and now he had been given a rare edition of his book.
31. Pain in the Left Arm
For pain in the left arm, the Yanuka Gaon advised reciting Tehillim of King David, explaining the deep connection as follows: Ehud ben Gera, a judge from the tribe of Benjamin who was left-handed, used his left hand to kill Eglon, the king of Moav, who had oppressed Israel for 18 years. His daughter Ruth (who was given that name for a reason) was the ancestress of King David, who, according to Rabbi Yochanan, “satiated” the Almighty with “songs and praises” (shirot ve-tishbachot) (Bava Batra 14b). The Hebrew word for “satiated” (rivago) resembles and is related to the name “Ruth.” The Almighty, so to speak, “thirsted” for songs and praises, and no one could quench this “thirst” until David HaMelech appeared.
32. Names of Tzadikim
Question:
The Rav was asked about the practice of mentioning the names of tzadikim, since some have the custom of reciting the names of righteous people during times of trouble.
Answer:
The Rav replied that when we mention the names of righteous people, we remind G-d of all the good deeds and acts they performed in this world, thereby awakening their merits.
33. Prayer with Mistakes
Question:
A Jew came to the Yanuka Gaon and related that he recites the prayer “Petach Eliyahu” in the synagogue every day, but finds it difficult to pronounce the Aramaic words correctly. He was concerned that his prayer might not be accepted by the Almighty.
Answer:
Rabbeinu reassured him, advising him to strive for maximum accuracy, but emphasizing that even if he makes mistakes, his prayer is still very dear to the Almighty. As Chazal teach in Midrash Rabbah, at the beginning of Shir HaShirim (2), on the verse: “And His banner over me was love” (Shir HaShirim 2:4), “Do not read ‘His banner’ (diglo), but rather ‘His skipping’ (dilugo).” Even amid the skips and mistakes, the Almighty takes pleasure in the prayers.
More details here:
/почему-теилим-и-зоар-а-кадош-можно-чита/
34. The Sefer “Toldot Yaakov Yosef”
The Yanuka Gaon was presented with an old edition of “Toldot Yaakov Yosef” by Rabbi Yaakov Yosef of Polonnoye.
The Rav shared a teaching of the holy Rabbi Pinchas of Koretz, who said that the words “Shamati miMori” (I heard from my teacher) in “Toldot Yaakov Yosef”, referring to the Ba'al Shem Tov, possess the power to resurrect the dead.
35. Healing of the Eyes
When a Jew asked the Yanuka Gaon for a blessing for healing of the eyes, the Rav blessed him, saying: “May it be the will of the Almighty that in the merit of the holy Gaon ‘Yismach Moshe’, you merit healing of the eyes.” When he was asked about the connection between the eyes and Yismach Moshe, the Rav explained that it is told that on the eve of Yom Kippur, one of his students came to the synagogue but could not pray from the siddur because his glasses had fallen and broken. Then Rabbi Moshe Teitelbaum
passed his holy hands over the student's eyes, and they were miraculously healed, enabling him to read without glasses.
The Yanuka Gaon also shared another segula for healing the eyes: studying the holy book “Me'or Einayim” by Rabbi Menachem Nachum of Chernobyl. He related how he once advised a blind man to study “Me'or Einayim,” and, through the Almighty's mercy, the man's sight miraculously returned within a few days.
36. Tehillim 103–104
Later, Moreinu mentioned the words of the Rav HaKadosh, known as Rova, who taught that Tehillim 103 and 104 are especially powerful for rectifying the soul and attaining spiritual wholeness.
He explained the custom of reciting Tehillim 104 on Rosh Chodesh to rectify any mistakes made during the previous month.
37. The Mussaf Prayer
The Yanuka Gaon reminded everyone of the importance of contemplating teshuvah before beginning the Mussaf prayer. He quoted the Shlah HaKadosh, who wrote that failing to do teshuvah before Mussaf is like not praying Mussaf at all. He also emphasized the need to concentrate during Mussaf while reciting the pasuk: “Mizbe'ach chadash beTzion tachin” (A new altar in Zion You shall prepare), and urged everyone to pray wholeheartedly for the rebuilding of the Beit HaMikdash.
38. Hitbodedut
In response to questions about personal prayer—Hitbodedut—the Yanuka Gaon answered that there is no fixed time requirement; it depends on a person's state of mind. Forcing oneself to pray for a long time can turn it into a burden. Instead, the Rav advised following one's natural need to connect with the Almighty. The Gaon quoted Rabbi Yitzchak Breiter, who compared the 18 minutes required to salt meat and remove its impurities with the 18 minutes of Hitbodedut that can purify a person's negative traits.
39. What Is Beneficial to Do Le'ilui Nishmat
The Gaon, quoting the Chatam Sofer, said that the greatest elevation for the soul (aliyat neshamah) is inhaling fragrance (besamim). He advised that on the yahrzeit of a departed relative, family members should make a point of smelling fragrances and reciting all five blessings associated with fragrances.
Chazal teach in Berachot 43b that fragrance unequivocally brings joy to the soul.
The Gaon also suggested studying 10 chapters of Mishnayot, from the tractate Mikvaot, as a powerful aid for elevating the soul.
40. How to Avoid Surgery
When the Yanuka Gaon was asked how to avoid an unwanted operation, he answered with a pasuk from Vayikra (26:6):
“Ve-cherev lo ta'avor be-artzechem” – (and no sword shall pass through your land).
The Gaon explained that a person is like a miniature world, an “olam katan.” Thus, “and no sword shall pass through your land” refers to the person himself, hinting that he will not need to undergo surgery.
41. When It Is Difficult to Fall Asleep
For those who have difficulty falling asleep, the Gaon advised reciting Shirat HaYam (the Song at the Sea) and visualizing the miraculous splitting of the sea—how the waters divided, the Egyptians drowned, and the Jewish people were saved. He explained that this is a special segula for peaceful sleep.
42. The Fast of Shovavim
The Gaon said that in our generation, the focus should not be on fasting and asceticism, but on increasing Torah study, mitzvot, and good deeds. For those who wished to observe a fast, he suggested redeeming it by donating the value of the food to poor Torah scholars. He also recommended refraining from excessive consumption of sweets, observing Ta'anit HaRaavad (a partial fast), or practicing Ta'anit Dibbur; all of these can serve as alternatives to a traditional fast.
Ta'anit HaRaavad
/таанит-раавада-искупительная-жертва/
Ta'anit HaDibbur
/таанит-дибур-и-почему-основное-исправ/
43. Purchasing a Cemetery Plot During One's Lifetime
The Gaon cited Rabbi Tzvi-Hirsch Kaidanover, author of “Kav HaYashar”, who traced this custom to Yaakov Avinu, as it is written: “In the grave that I dug for myself” (Bereishit 50:5).
44. The Blessing on Fragrances After Kaddish
The Yanuka Gaon explained his custom of reciting a blessing on fragrances after Kaddish Titkabel. He shared that prayer corresponds to the offerings, and just as fragrances were offered after the sacrifices, bringing a “re'ach nichoach” (pleasing fragrance) to the Almighty, so too, after the prayers ascend through Kaddish Titkabel, we should bring about a “good fragrance” in the upper worlds through blessings on fragrances.
45. Candles for Tzadikim
When lighting candles lekhvod tzadikim, the Yanuka Gaon emphasized that each tzadik should have his own candle. He explained that one should not light a single candle for several souls.
Rabbeinu did not light all the candles at once; instead, he lit one candle, extinguished the lighter, and then lit it again for the next candle. When asked about this practice, Rabbeinu explained that he wanted to prepare himself anew for each candle, because preparation for a mitzvah has tremendous value—this concept is explained in Midrash Rabbah (Parashat Beha'alotcha).
46. Eliyahu HaNavi at a Brit
When the Yanuka Gaon was asked when Eliyahu HaNavi comes to a brit, Rabbeinu answered that Eliyahu HaNavi comes when the entire community accepts the yoke of Heaven together by proclaiming “Hashem Melech”.
47. Tehillim According to the Custom of the Ari HaKadosh
The Yanuka Gaon urged everyone to strive to recite Tehillim 119 (33–40) daily—ה
- “33. Horeni Adonai derech chukecha, ve-etzrenah עקב. 34. Havineni ve-etzrah toratecha, ve-eshmerenah vechol lev. 35. Hadricheni bentiv mitzvotecha, ki vo chafatzti. 36. Hat libi el edvotecha, ve-al el batza. 37. Ha'aver einai me-re'ot shav, bidrachecha chayeni. 38. Hakem le-avdecha imratecha, asher le-yir'atecha. 39. Ha'aver cherpati asher yagorti, ki mishpatecha tovim. 40. Hineh ta'avti le-fikudécha, be-tzidkatecha chayeni”.
48. The Greatness of the Almighty
The Yanuka Gaon said that one who truly recognizes the greatness of the Almighty can revive the dead, literally approaching a deceased person and restoring him to life;
Rabbeinu also stated several times that the primary distinction between the levels of tzadikim lies in their understanding of the greatness of the Almighty. The more a person recognizes the greatness of the Creator, the more his service of the Almighty rises to an entirely different realm.
Rabbeinu further said that a person who deeply understands the greatness of the Almighty need only glance briefly toward Heaven and say, “Almighty, save me,” and the Almighty will indeed save him.
49. Healing for the Eyes
After Shacharit, a man approached Rabbeinu and asked for a blessing for his eyesight. Rabbeinu recited a verse from Bamidbar 15:39:
- “Ve-lo taturu acharei levavchem ve-acharei eineichem asher atem zonim acharehem” - (and you shall not stray after your heart and after your eyes, after which you go astray). He added that by strengthening himself in this matter, the man would merit healing for his eyes.
50. Cold in the Home Leads to Poverty
Rabbeinu mentioned that one must be careful not to overcool one's home. As Rabbi Pinchas of Koretz said, this can lead to poverty, chas ve-shalom.
Rabbeinu also said that the way a household is managed depends on the couple's level of fear of Heaven. If the husband has greater fear of Heaven, he will manage the home; if the wife has greater fear, she will manage it. As a general rule, the proper approach is for the wife to decide material matters, such as furnishings, while the husband should decide spiritual matters, such as the children's education.
51. Tehillim 25 for the Hostages
When the Yanuka Gaon was asked what would be best to recite for the hostages, he said that Tehillim 25 is a well-known segula for the return of captives.
52. A Segula for a Shidduch—Parashat HaNesi'im
Rabbeinu repeated the well-known segula for finding a spouse: reciting Parashat HaNesi'im. When asked about the connection between Parashat HaNesi'im and marriage, Rabbeinu explained that there is a connection between offerings (korbanot) and marriage. He quoted the Gemara in Gittin (90b) and Sanhedrin (22a), which says that when a husband is deeply moved by his wife, even the mizbe'ach (altar) sheds tears. This demonstrates a clear connection between korbanot and marriage, making the recitation of Parashat HaNesi'im a segula for finding one's zivug (match).
53. Compassion for Animals
Rabbeinu was asked whether one should avoid stepping on ants. He cited the Ya'avetz in She'elat Ya'avetz (vol. 1, siman 110), who maintains that the prohibition of tza'ar ba'alei chayim (causing suffering to animals) does not apply to insects and that there is no prohibition against killing them. However, Rabbeinu added that as a personal practice, he is scrupulous even in this regard and refrains from stepping on ants out of compassion. (The AriZal acted likewise.)
54. So That Children Will Not Marry Non-Jews
A Jew shared with the Rav that his daughter was currently abroad and wanted to marry a non-Jew, and that he was devastated and in deep pain over this. The Rav told him to read Psalm 25 and Psalm 51 every day and to concentrate at the end of the Amidah, while reciting “Oseh Shalom Bimromav”, asking that the Almighty transform the peace and love between her and the non-Jew into jealousy and hatred, so that they would separate and she would not marry him.
55. What the Third Temple Will Look Like
Afterward, someone showed the Rav a beautiful illustration of the future Third Temple and asked whether it would really look like that after its restoration. The Rav replied: “If someone wants to know exactly what the Third Temple will look like, let him study Chapter 43 of Sefer Yechezkel carefully and in detail—for it is described there at length.”
56. Healing for the Eyes
The Rav told someone suffering from vision problems to invoke the merit of Rabbi Meir Baal HaNes and Rav Chaim Kapusi, known as “Nissi,” as well as the merit of Me'or Einayim.
One should concentrate during the blessing “Poke'ach Ivrim” (Who gives sight to the blind) every day—this is a segula for healing the eyes.
He also added that studying the laws of Chanukah is a segula for healing the intestines.
57. Tehillim 107 and Healing
The Chassidim of Belz spoke about the Belzer Rebbe, saying that whenever he touched a person's ailing organ, it was immediately healed. They connected this with the verse from Tehillim 107:20
יִשְׁלַ֣ח דְּ֭בָרוֹ וְיִרְפָּאֵ֑ם וִֽ֝ימַלֵּ֗ט מִשְּׁחִיתוֹתָֽם׃
- “Yishlach devaro veyirpa'em, vimalet mishchitotam” - (He sent forth His word and healed them).
ישלח דברו וירפאם - the rashei tevot (initial letters) of this pasuk form the word ידו (His hand).
And the sofei tevot (final letters) form the word מוח (mind), teaching that even thinking about an ill person brings healing.
58. The Spine
The Gaon Yanuka cited a teaching from Bava Kamma (16a): “A person must bow during the Amidah while reciting the blessing “Modim Anachnu”, until all the vertebrae in his spine become relaxed. If he does not do so, when he dies, his spine will turn into a snake. Specifically a snake—because arrogance derives from the skin of the primordial serpent. This demonstrates the importance of humility: bowing and submitting oneself to the Creator is how a person nullifies the yetzer hara—the serpent itself.”
59. Earache
When a distinguished Jew asked for healing from an earache, Rav Yanuka advised him to study the book “Orchot Tzadikim” and quoted the verse:
אוזן שומעת תוכחת מוסר - בקרב חכמים תלין
“An ear that listens to the reproof of life dwells among the wise.” (Mishlei 15:31)
60. A Friday Segula for Parnassah
The Gaon Yanuka shared a precious teaching: there is great merit in reading on Friday afternoon the second chapter of Mishnayot Shabbat, “Bameh Madlikin u’Vameh Ein Madlikin” (“With what may one light, and with what may one not light”). Many people nowadays neglect this practice. But Rav Pinchas of Koretz, zt”l, said: “Whoever does not read ‘Bameh Madlikin’ on Erev Shabbat will have no means of livelihood throughout the week.”
61. Salvation That Comes Quickly and Suffering That Lasts
Rabbeinu Lasri asked the Gaon Yanuka: Why do some people merit an immediate miracle, while others suffer for years without salvation?
Rabbeinu replied:
Sometimes a person's salvation is predestined, but it does not come immediately because the person must undergo a process of purification.
This too is a test from Heaven—to see whether a person will fall into despair or remain strong and joyful.
But in the end, he will be saved.
62. When You Do Not Know What to Do
After prayer, Rabbeinu spoke with several people facing difficult problems who did not know what to do. He advised them to read Tehillim 23 with kavanah, concentrating especially on the words:
נַפְשִׁ֥י יְשׁוֹבֵ֑ב יַֽנְחֵ֥נִי בְמַעְגְּלֵי־צֶ֝֗דֶק לְמַ֣עַן שְׁמֽוֹ׃
- “Nafshi yeshovev, yancheni vema'gelei tzedek lema'an shemo” - (He restores my soul; He guides me along paths of righteousness for His Name's sake), asking the Almighty to guide them with wise counsel and show them the right path.
63. Looking Toward Heaven
The Gaon Yanuka related that he always looks toward Heaven immediately after someone tells him of a misfortune and asks for a blessing, because the power of looking upward can mitigate harsh judgments Above.
64. A Segula for Depression and Sadness
A distinguished Jew shared with the Rav that he was experiencing intense emotional anguish and sometimes fell into sadness and depression. He asked what he could do to avoid such low states. The Rav told him to listen to sacred niggunim and inhale fragrant spices, because neither the sense of smell nor the sense of hearing was damaged by the sin of the Tree of Knowledge. Therefore, one who sanctifies these senses may merit pure, profound joy, untouched by the sadness rooted in the primordial serpent.
65. Which Tefillin Does the Almighty Wear?
Rabbeinu Yaakov of Marvège writes in “She'elot U'Tshuvot Min HaShamayim” (siman 3) that the Holy One, blessed be He, wears tefillin in accordance with the opinion of Rabbeinu Tam. If so, Rabbeinu asked, how is it that halachah follows Rashi, as codified in the Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim 34:2? The answer is that the sages were granted Divine authority to determine halachah and express the will of the Almighty in this world. This, said Rabbeinu, demonstrates the tremendous power and responsibility of the chachamim.
66. Why One Should Not Wear the Shoes of the Deceased
Rabbeinu then spoke about the custom of not wearing the shoes of a deceased person. He explained it based on what Chazal say in Sukkah 53a: “A person's feet are his guarantors.” Since these shoes carried him to his death, wearing them is a bad sign, because a remnant of that final journey remains in them.
67. Birds
After the morning prayer, Rabbeinu spoke about birds and how they sense holiness. This is why birds often gather near synagogues and even at the Western Wall. Chazal taught that any bird flying over the head of Yonatan ben Uziel would be burned, because birds sense kedushah.
68. Tefillin
Rabbeinu was once asked whether someone who had not managed to put on tefillin before sunset should nevertheless do so afterward. He replied: Yes, they should put them on until the end of Rabbeinu Tam's zman—simply without a blessing.
69. The Blessing on Fragrances and the Right Hand
Rav David Naki, author of the book “Be-Halacha u-Va-Aggadah,” came to the Gaon Yanuka to receive a blessing. During their conversation, the Rav said that there is special significance to spraying perfume or fragrance specifically on the right hand, and then reciting the blessing “Borei Minei Besamim.” Immediately afterward, one should say the phrase “Reiach Nichoach Isha la-Shem,” which, he explained, encompasses all the inner intentions underlying the blessing over fragrance.
70. Healing Skin Conditions
When a man suffering from a skin condition approached the Gaon Yanuka and asked for help, the Rav advised him to read the story of Naaman and his leprosy in Melachim II, Chapter 5.
At that moment, another man came out and related that he had recently sought a blessing from the Rav for severe skin rashes covering his body. After the Gaon Yanuka told him to read the same chapter, his skin cleared completely without any medical treatment.
71. When a Downturn Follows Success
The Rav Yanuka said that if a person has achieved success and then enters a very difficult period, when all the doors seem to close and nothing works, he should read Tehillim 23, 24, and 25.
72. If a Child Does Not Speak
When a parent complained to the Gaon that his son had grown older but still had not begun to speak, causing him deep concern, Rabbeinu advised him to begin reciting the Birchot HaNehenin (blessings over food and drink) aloud. He added that he had seen children who did not speak at all, but as soon as their parents began reciting the blessings aloud, the child began to speak.
73. Reading Parashat HaMan Twice on Friday
The Gaon Yanuka once spoke of his weekly Friday practice—reading Parashat HaMan twice. Since the manna fell twice on Friday—once for Friday and once for Shabbat—it is good to read Parashat HaMan itself twice on Friday.
/только-на-нашем-сайте-транслит-троекр/
74. When the Deceased Appear in Dreams
Someone asked Rabbeinu about a strange dream: a deceased relative appeared and said that she felt emptiness in her soul. Rabbeinu instructed him to recite the Birchot HaNehenin aloud for the elevation of her soul, and added that it is good to recite Kaddish for a departed soul throughout one's life—not only during the first year. Citing the Arizal (“Sha'ar HaKavanot,” p. 15), he explained that besides protection from Gehinnom, this also elevates the soul from one level of Gan Eden to another.
75. The Mussaf Prayer
He then urged everyone to concentrate during the Rosh Chodesh Mussaf prayer, in the fourth blessing, “Rashei Chodashim”, on the words “Mizbe'ach Chadash be-Tzion Takhin”—“Establish a new altar in Zion”—praying and having kavanah that the Beit HaMikdash should already be rebuilt. Rabbi Moshe Greenwald, author of “Arugat HaBosem,” said that one who does not concentrate on these words is considered as though he did not pray Mussaf at all.
The Gaon Yanuka also reminded everyone of the need to repent before the Mussaf prayer, since the Shlah HaKadosh (may his merit protect us) wrote that this is an auspicious time for atonement for all transgressions committed during the month.
76. Purim—Healing
Once, a Jew came to the Gaon Yanuka with a photograph of a child in critical condition in the hospital, connected to numerous medical tubes. He asked for a blessing for the child's recovery. The Gaon asked when the child was born, and the man replied: “On Purim.” The Gaon instructed him to read one chapter of Megillat Esther every day, as well as Psalm 6 and a prayer for healing, and assured him that, with the help of the Almighty, he would witness miracles and wonders. That is what happened, and the child recovered completely.
77. Kisei Eliyahu
The Gaon Yanuka explained the concept of Kisei Eliyahu as follows. Eliyahu HaNavi serves as the sandak in two aspects: the aspect of נס “nes” (miracle) and דק “dak” (purification).
The aspect of Eliyahu HaNavi brings forgiveness for sins, while the aspect of the angel Raphael brings healing to the infant. He also explained that when the prophet Elisha, Eliyahu's disciple, asked to be granted a “double portion” of his teacher's spirit (the ability to perform miracles), he was asking to inherit both aspects: those of Eliyahu and Raphael. The name Eliyahu (whose gematria is 52) equals twice “dak” (דק) - 104.
78. Pesach—Healing Through “Biur Chametz”
Before Pesach, a man came to the Gaon Yanuka and spoke about his son's illness—an enlarged kidney. The doctors had decided that the boy would have to remain on antibiotics for the rest of his life. The father asked for a blessing, and the Gaon Yanuka instructed him to recite a prayer for healing twice a day, promising that he would see miracles.
During “biur chametz” (the burning of chametz), the father decided to throw all the antibiotic tablets into the fire along with the chametz. A week later, new scans were taken. The doctors were astonished—the kidneys had healed completely, naturally and miraculously.
“Hodu la-Ado-nai ki tov, ki le'olam chasdo”!
79. The Prayer of Thanksgiving—Reading Tehillim 100 and 150
The “Korban Todah” (thanksgiving offering) brought in the Beit HaMikdash was accompanied by 40 loaves of bread, in order to publicize the miracle. When the person who had been saved distributed the loaves, people asked what the food was for, and he told them about the miracle, thereby sanctifying the Name of the Almighty.
Nowadays, teaches the Yanuka, one who experiences a miracle should read these two psalms for 40 days and tell his story publicly, as a modern-day Korban Todah.
It is good to distribute 40 loaves of bread to yeshivah students.
80. Back Pain and the Amidah
A man came to Rabbeinu complaining of back pain. The Gaon explained that the Gemara says (Berachot 28a): “Rabbi Tanchum said in the name of Rabbi Yehoshua ben Levi that one who prays must bow until all the vertebrae in his spine become relaxed.” The Gemara further says (Bava Kamma 16a) that a person's spine turns into a snake after seven years, especially if he did not bow properly during “Modim” in the Amidah prayer. If a person bows before the Almighty, said Rabbeinu, the pain will pass.
Rabbeinu explained that this teaches a person humility before his Creator—that whenever someone experiences back pain, it is a sign that he must submit himself more fully to the Almighty and bring his will into alignment with the Divine will.
81. Three Times of Et Ratzon (Divine Favor)
The Gaon Yanuka said that there are three special times of et ratzon—moments of Divine favor:
— during Birkat Kohanim (the priestly blessing),
— during hagbah (the lifting of the Torah),
— during the Torah reading itself.
During Birkat Kohanim and hagbah, one should present one's personal requests. But during the Torah reading, one should not ask for anything—instead, one should listen attentively to every word read by the Torah reader (ba'al korei), since the seven aliyot correspond to the seven days of the week.
Regarding Shnayim Mikra ve-Echad Targum (reading the weekly Torah portion twice in Hebrew and once with Targum Onkelos), Rabbeinu taught that ideally it should be completed before the public Torah reading. In this way, one can hear every word of the ba'al korei during this time of Divine favor. Only if this was not done beforehand may one quietly read along with the Ba'al Korei during the reading itself.
82. Tehillim 150 and Counting the Number of Words
Another distinguished Jew told Rabbeinu that his eldest son had never spoken. After receiving Rabbeinu's blessing, the child began to speak and even sing. The father brought the boy to Rabbeinu, who said to him: “Know, my child, that nothing brings greater joy to the Almighty than when a small child praises His great Name.”
Then Rabbeinu instructed the father to teach his son the 150th chapter of Tehillim and added that it is beneficial to count on one's fingers the number of words of praise in this psalm.
83. Never Despair
A man was standing by the Gaon's window when a thick fog descended. Rabbeinu commented on the verse: “And Moshe approached the fog” (Shemot 20:18), explaining that the Torah teaches us that the true good—the fulfillment of the Almighty's will—is found even in difficulties and fog. If only we could see the spiritual elevation a person attains during difficult times, we would not want the struggle to end. As the verse says: “Hashem is my strength and my song, and He has become my salvation”—that is, it is precisely the difficulties that bring about salvation. One should never despair, for every sin stems from sadness, while one who renews his joy defeats the yetzer hara.
84. When One's Mazal Rises
The Gaon Yanuka said that a person's mazal rises on the day of his birth, and added that some people also celebrate the anniversary of their brit milah.
85. Birkat HaMazon
A distinguished Jew came to Rabbeinu for a blessing, and Rabbeinu told him that the “Sefer HaChinuch” states that the key to a dignified existence is reciting “Birkat HaMazon” (Grace After Meals) with proper concentration and from the written text. One who is careful in this matter will merit a stable and respectable livelihood throughout his life.
86. Heart Disease and Sefer Yechezkel
A distinguished Jew suffering from heart disease asked Rabbeinu for a blessing. Rabbeinu told him that what is written in Chapter 36 of the book of Yechezkel about the heart would be fulfilled in him:
“And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit within you; and I will remove the heart of stone from your flesh and give you a heart of flesh.”
87. Kidneys and Apple Cider Vinegar
When a Jew suffering from kidney disease said that doctors had recommended a kidney transplant, the Gaon Yanuka instructed him to drink one tablespoon of natural [raw] apple cider vinegar (sold in a glass bottle), diluted in a glass of water, morning and evening, every day, and, with the help of the Almighty, he would see miracles and would not need surgery. “This,” Rabbeinu said, “is one of the wonders of nature.”
88. Tikkun Chatzot in Times of Trouble
One Jew wept before the Gaon because he had been arrested for hiring foreign workers to renovate his home. Rabbeinu told him, first and foremost, that one must always observe the law. He then added that he should replace his workers with better ones and make sure to recite Tikkun Chatzot, for whoever mourns the destruction of the Beit HaMikdash will have his home cared for by the Almighty. Rabbeinu explained the time and significance of Chatzot Laila, Tikkun Rachel, and Tikkun Leah, and advised him to set an alarm so that he could rise at midnight and recite them. Rabbeinu concluded: whenever a person is beset by trouble, it is because the Almighty wishes to share in his pain—the pain of the Shechinah.
89. Manna
It was Rabbeinu’s daily practice to read the section about the manna. He asked: Why does the Torah use the expression, “I will rain down bread from Heaven” (mamtir), rather than “I will bring” bread from Heaven? Rabbeinu explained that just as there are differences between places—for one person, a wheat field grows beautifully, while another’s remains dry and barren—so too it is with livelihood. The Almighty decides to grant abundance to one Jew and not to another. Therefore, the Torah uses the term “mamtir,” implying a Divine outpouring and teaching that livelihood comes only from the Almighty, Who enriches and impoverishes; it does not depend on a person’s excessive efforts.
Rabbeinu also taught that the manna eaten by the Israelites in the wilderness healed their bodies and even restored limbs to those whose hands or feet had been amputated during the Egyptian servitude. That is why it was called “manna”—for when someone was healed, people would say: “Man hu?”, meaning “Who is he?”—because the Jew who had once had a limb amputated was now standing whole.
Rabbeinu was also asked why the Exodus from Egypt is mentioned fifty times in the Torah and commemorated daily in Kriat Shema and Birkat HaMazon. He explained that we must constantly remember the power of the Almighty: after a long and cruel exile, during which, as related in the Midrash, the Egyptians placed a lit candle on a Jew’s head after grueling labor, and if he moved and the candle fell, they beheaded him—the Almighty redeemed us with an outstretched arm, signs, and wonders. Likewise, in every difficulty, a Jew must strengthen himself and know that the Almighty can change everything in an instant. This is alluded to in the verse “Ehyeh Asher Ehyeh”: the first “Ehyeh” refers to the redemption from Egypt, while the second refers to the future Redemption.
Rabbeinu noted that the phrase “your complaints” appears repeatedly in the section about the manna. The lesson is that when a Jew encounters difficulties seemingly caused by someone else—whether a spouse, employer, neighbor, or anyone else—he should not blame the person who caused them. They are all merely agents of the Almighty, Who arranges everything for a person’s benefit. One who blames people is, in essence, complaining against the Almighty Himself, as the verse says: “It is not against us that you complain, but against the Almighty.” Such complaints change the nature of prayer: for one who complains, prayer is full of grievances and devoid of gratitude; but one who does not complain lives with joy, and all his prayers are praise and thanksgiving.
90. Eating Before Shabbat—A Loss of Wealth
The Gemara (Gittin 38b) states that many families lost their wealth because they entered Shabbat after having a lavish Friday afternoon meal and had no appetite for the Shabbat meal.
We learn this from the Torah’s account of the manna: those who tried to gather more than they were allotted found it filled with worms. This teaches us that what is decreed for a person cannot be increased through human effort, as the Torah says: “An omer per person.” Moreover, for those who lived with faith, the manna fell near their homes, proving that overexertion is falsehood, while faith is truth.
Lashon Hara and the Double-Tongued Serpent
Rabbeinu said that one must be extremely careful regarding the sin of lashon hara. Anyone who speaks negatively about a fellow Jew is speaking against the children of the Almighty, as it is written: “Israel, in whom I take pride.” The Rosh writes that even one who merely thinks negatively about another must repent, and certainly one who expresses it aloud. Negative speech creates division, which is the path of the primordial serpent with its forked tongue.
92. When a Child Does Not Speak
A Jew came to the Gaon Yanuka asking for help because his young son did not speak. Rabbeinu instructed him to carefully recite aloud the blessings of enjoyment, “Brachot HaNehenin” (blessings over beverages and food).
93. When a Shidduch Depends on the Parents
A distinguished Jew brought a note with the names of his daughters, who were having difficulty finding shidduchim. Rabbeinu would usually instruct people to recite Tehillim 31 and 71, but this time Rabbeinu said that the problem lay with the father himself—he needed to recite Chapters 31 and 71 and study the Torah section concerning Korbanot.
94. Traffic Laws Through Tehillim
When the Gaon Yanuka was asked for a blessing for success in a legal case involving traffic regulations, Rabbeinu instructed him to recite Tehillim, Chapters 25 and 51. Rabbeinu also said in the name of Rabbi Aharon of Belz that meticulous observance of traffic laws is a Torah obligation.
95. Hitbodedut
Rabbeinu was asked how a person can merit “yishuv ha-da’at” (peace of mind). Rabbeinu replied: through Torah study. He then told another Jew that one who practices “hitbodedut” would merit “yishuv ha-da’at.” This matter was already discussed by the early authorities, and the Arizal said that all his spiritual attainments came through hitbodedut along the Nile in Egypt.
Rabbeinu explained that the minimum time for hitbodedut is 18 minutes—the time required for salting meat—during which a person removes the “impure blood” from within. One who practices hitbodedut in this manner merits having his tefillah and Torah shine more brightly. And if someone finds it difficult to do this all at once, he may divide it into two periods during the day.
This distinguished Jew told Rabbeinu that during hitbodedut prayer he felt a special spiritual elevation, but upon returning to the bustle of daily life, he no longer remembered that feeling. Rabbeinu replied that this was because during hitbodedut prayer he did not look at the sky. It is therefore best to practice hitbodedut prayer under the open sky. One who contemplates the heavens “takes the heavens into himself.” His mind becomes accustomed to thinking about the Almighty, as King David said: “The heavens declare the glory of G-d, and the sky tells of His handiwork.”
The voices and doubts that torment a person arise precisely when he looks toward the ground. But when his gaze is directed toward the Almighty, he escapes the bustle of worldly concerns. Rabbeinu added that everything said about looking at the sky applies equally to looking at the sea.
We also see that a person’s prayer is not always complete—the proof is that we recite Tachanun after the Amidah. When a person judges himself, it helps, because “if there is judgment below, there is no judgment above.”
Rabbeinu related an incident from eighty years ago: In Uman, a man who had been buried twenty years earlier was found, and it was discovered that his body was intact. They investigated and asked his wife whether he had been a righteous man. She replied that he was an ordinary person, a laborer. But every midnight he would turn to the Almighty.
Rabbeinu added the teaching of the Kotzker Rebbe: “Do not tell the Almighty how great your troubles are—tell your troubles how great the Almighty is.”
96. Dreams
Rabbeinu taught the following principle: Hold on to every dream that strengthens you. Do not attach significance to any dream that breaks a person.
97. Buying/Selling a Home
The Gaon Yanuka teaches that anyone who buys or sells a home must be careful to recite Tikkun Chatzot.
98. Protection from Negative Thoughts
If troubling thoughts torment a person, the Gaon advises studying Mishnayot from “Masechet Zevachim,” which will help him rid himself of these thoughts.
[To be continued]
(Translated by Silatehilim from the teachings of the Gaon, Rabbi Yanuka)
