During the months of Adar, Nissan and Iyar of 5748 the Rebbe, Shlita, devoted many of his Sichos (talks) to the potential religious importance of birthday celebrations.
Citing Halachic and Aggadic sources, as well as traditional Chassidic practices the Rebbe has urged everyone to make appropriate gatherings on birthdays and to encourage and emphasize more Torah study, more Tzedakah, etc.
This essay is based on several discourses from the 25th of Adar, Shabbos Mevorchim Nissan, the 11th & 13th of Nissan, Acharon Shel Pesach, Shabbos Shemini as well as the letter of Erev Rosh Chodesh Nissan.
In this publication we have endeavored to compose a digest of the various concepts and suggestions presented by the Rebbe, Shlita, in the hope of providing the English-speaking world with a clear idea of this important subject.
We have been forced to edit and condense some of the Sichos for the sake of continuity.
We have also abstained from including all of the technical, halachic references and the copious footnotes which a more detailed translation should include.
Our goal is to present a clear and concise picture of the Rebbe's ideas on the importance of birthday observance.
We hope this will encourage more and more people to follow the Rebbe's advice.
And in the merit of the increased Torah and mitzvos - we will create the ultimate dwelling place for the Shechinah and the ultimate salvation, through our righteous Moshiach - Now!
As an introduction to the essay we are printing the Sicha of the 25th of Adar, 5748, the anniversary of the birth of Rebbetzin Chayah Mushka Schneerson Zichrona L'Vracha (5661-5748), which marked the initiation of the Campaign to celebrate birthdays.
