A Musical Dispute and a Moment of Grace: When the Vizhnitzer Choir Won Over Rav Dov Landau

A distinguished visit took place on Thursday, when HaGaon Rav Dov Landau, Rosh Yeshivas Slabodka, paid a visit to the sukkah of the Vizhnitzer Rebbe in Bnei Brak.

The meeting between the two was marked by warmth and mutual respect. During the visit, they reminisced about earlier years, when Rav Landau had the privilege of basking in the presence of the previous Vizhnitzer Rebbe, the Damesek Eliezer zt”l, during his time in the city of Rechovot in 1946. The conversation also touched upon the spiritual significance of the Yom Tov and reflections on the Yom Tov of Sukkos.

After partaking in a lechaim, the Rebbe personally escorted Rav Landau out of the sukkah and accompanied him to the street, where they exchanged brachos before parting.

But the visit concluded with an unexpected and heartwarming moment. As Rav Landau exited, a group of young Vizhnitzer bochurim began joyfully singing “Ki Orech Yamim” in his honor. True to his humility, Rav Landau motioned for them to stop the singing, not wishing to receive public tribute.

The spirited young chassidim, however, were quick to find a graceful solution. With a knowing smile, they explained that the song was being sung “for the honor of the rebbe.” Hearing this, Rav Landau acquiesced, allowing the melody to continue as he made his way to his car, driven by Vizhnitz philanthropist Reb Mattisyahu Yisroel Gruzinger.

The brief exchange left onlookers smiling — a perfect blend of modesty and wit, sealing the visit with harmony and respect.

{Matzav.com Israel}