The Rav [Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi], who was in a state of poverty and weakness, wished to travel to Mezritch to visit the Magid. Due to his condition, he was unable to make the journey on foot and thus asked the local wagon driver whether he could drive him to Mezritch on his horse and buggy. The latter responded, “Leaving my wife and children without any livelihood is fine since I rely on miracles to sustain them. However, the horses lack awareness of grand ideas. They require oats for sustenance. What will become of them?” The Rabbi suggested that the driver sell one horse, which would provide for his family during his absence and also provide for the remaining horse during the journey. The driver agreed and the two set off on their journey.
However, due to only having one horse, they struggled to maintain control of the wagon. Along the way, they stopped at a tavern. Before having a chance to draw the horse, the shaft of the wagon accidentally broke a window. Realizing what occurred, the owner of the tavern, the paritz (squire), stormed out and furiously shouted, “Who shattered my window?” Fearfully, the wagon driver pointed to the Rav. Upon seeing the Rav’s holy countenance and appearance, the paritz was struck with awe and invited him into his home. He gave the Rav an additional horse to enable him to arrive at Mezritch faster.
While traveling, the rabbi posed a query to the driver, “I am at a loss to comprehend your actions. You displayed faith in me and decided to leave your family without regard for their well-being. However, upon encountering the paritz, you shifted the blame onto me, despite it being apparent that you were the one deserving of punishment.” The driver replied, “That’s why, Rebbe, I pointed to you, as I had faith in you that as a true holy figure, the paritz would not be able to cause you any harm. However, if that were not the case, then you obviously deserve petch (a beating/punishment).” The Rav would often recall this story and end with the conclusion, “If that were not the case, then you obviously deserve petch (punishment).”
Y.F.
Tolner Rebbe
