A Mohel and a Surprising Visit: The Unbelievable Village Blunder

In this week's Torah portion, Tazria, the mitzvah of brit milah (circumcision) appears. The mohel, who performs this mitzvah, is dedicated and specialized, much like a shochet (kosher butcher).

An intriguing and unfortunate incident occurred in the month of Nisan, 5595 (1835), in the town of Lishtova. Rabbi Michael Peshkas, the town's mohel, was deeply committed to this sacred task. He went out of his way to perform bris milah, even traveling to distant towns at his own expense. If he was given a payment, fine, if not – so be it. He performed countless circumcisions for the children of poor families for the sake of heaven.

However, a strange folly overtook the town's shochet, Michael Raab. Perhaps envious of his friend's dedication, Michael Raab approached Rabbi Peshkas and claimed, "Congratulations are in order, my wife gave birth to a son a few days ago, and she's at her parents' village far from here. I couldn't find anyone as righteous as you to travel for the mitzvah. Please come next Sunday to perform the bris for my son born with good fortune." Sadly, this was a complete fabrication and a cruel prank.

Rabbi Michael Peshkas took a carriage and traveled four hours to that village. He entered with joy and exclamations of congratulations into the home of Michael Raab's parents. He saw the mother and family full of happiness, but they were baffled by his arrival; the newborn was a girl, not a boy! All the villagers gathered, ridiculing the unfortunate mohel at the scene of disgrace and anger.

When the residents of Lishtova heard about the shochet's disgraceful conduct, they convened a court. Should such a person remain a sacred officiant in the town? Could he be trusted in carrying out mitzvot? The decision was tough, so they referred the matter to the esteemed Chatam Sofer, who responded (Choshen Mishpat 176): The shochet's first sin was the grave transgression of hurtful speech, causing his friend distress. Secondly, he owed damages for wasted time and travel expenses. Therefore, he should be removed from his position until he appeases the esteemed mohel, Rabbi Michael Peshkas, compensating for his loss and distress. Only if Rabbi Michael forgives him and the shochet sincerely repents, should he possibly return to his duties.