The Dream Letter: An Ancient Accusation Resurfaces After 300 Years

In the month of Tishrei in the year 5681, Rabbi Mordechai Roznblat of the Lithuanian town of Oshmina was seen running frantically to find a local historian. Upon reaching the home of this historian, Rabbi Roznblat posed a pressing question: Do you know of an incident, many years ago, where someone slapped Rabbi Yosef ben Lev?

Rabbi Yosef ben Lev, known as the Mahari"ban Lev, was the rabbi of Saloniki and a leader of his generation, living during the time of the Rabbi Joseph Caro.

The historian confirmed the tale: Baruch, a wealthy community patron, lost a court case presided over by Rabbi Yosef ben Lev and was ordered to pay a large sum. When meeting the rabbi on the city street later, he boldly slapped him. Fear of Baruch, a converted Spaniard who had become a community leader due to his wealth, kept witnesses from intervening. Rabbi Yosef walked on but eventually halted, tearing his garments in mourning for the desecration of Torah's honor. Tragically, that same spot witnessed a massive fire that erupted in the dead of night, consuming many Jewish homes, synagogues, and study halls. Following this, a deadly plague broke out affecting the Jewish community.

So why was the rabbi of Oshmina concerned with an event that unfolded over 300 years prior?

In a special document called "The Dream Letter," Rabbi Roznblat described a series of dreams that plagued him that month. In these dreams, he encountered a dignified figure claiming to be sent from the afterlife. Initially withholding his purpose, the figure eventually revealed himself as Rabbi Yosef ben Lev, informing Rabbi Roznblat that he was descended from Baruch, the man who struck him. Consequently, the accusation still hung over him. He needed to purchase the works of the Mahari"ban Lev and study them to bring about his correction.

The letter was addressed to Rabbi Pinchas Michael, who, as Rabbi Roznblat's dream indicated, had prepared manuscripts of the Mahari"ban Lev for printing yet hadn't published them. To avoid his own accusation, he was urged to print them so Rabbi Mordechai Roznblat could buy and study them. Furthermore, Rabbi Roznblat noted in the letter that when he didn't immediately comply with this dream directive, his wife fell ill, and he was told she fell ill because of this delay.

Rabbi Pinchas Michael heeded the message, published the books, and Rabbi Roznblat purchased and studied them as instructed by his dreams. Though Rabbi Roznblat kept the matter private, Rabbi Pinchas Michael published "The Dream Letter" in his own book, revealing the extraordinary story.