R. Nachum served as a magid or rabbi in Prohobist and lived in a state of constant poverty. He attired himself in unadorned, shabby, and tattered garments. During a trip to Chernobyl, the balei batim (laymen) residing there formed a fondness for him. Upon seeing his worn-out attire, they proposed that if he were to assume a position in Chernobyl, they would provide him with a new kaftan and topcoat. Upon his return to Prohobist, the local balei batim admitted their inability to bear the financial burden, and that if he came across such good fortune in Chernobyl, they would release him. Thus, he went on to become the rabbi of Chernobyl, and before departing for his new position, he requested that his son-in-law, R. Avraham Asher, be appointed as his successor in Prohobist.
Y.F.
Pinchas Landau
