The Legacy of Rabbi Moses Isserles (The Rema)

The Life of Rabbi Moses Isserles

I am Moshe, son of my esteemed father, leader and guide of Israel, may he live long, known as Moshe Isserles of Krakow. I was among those exiled from our city in the year 1616 due to adverse air conditions, may it not happen again. We lived in a land not ours, a place without figs or vines, hardly any water without cunning. A city where bread is eaten with difficulties and no wood for heating, and we couldn’t celebrate Purim with feasting and joy. To lift my spirits, I immersed myself in study, for Hashem's commandments gladden the heart. I took delight and pondered the messages in the Megillah, examining every word with care. It was both beautiful and profound, akin to the knowledge of good and evil, leading me to insights about life's entire span, from birth to death, known only to Hashem. I documented my thoughts for future generations and would like readers not to think I am presumptuous in this endeavor. Learning the truth, regardless of its source, needs no justification, whether genuine or partial. Even if I'm wrong, I seek solace in our sages’ wisdom, valuing fruitful discussions over silence, especially regarding the Torah. If I'm mistaken, let it not prevent the exchange of ideas...

I, the compiler, note at the end of the manuscript: "My thoughts on the Megillah, helped by the awe-inspiring G-d whose name be glorified forever, were sent during Purim to my father, leader of our people. He is mighty among the mighty and appreciates my words which combine natural, spiritual, analytical insights as one blends wine."

From the Introduction to his book "MaHar Yayin" on the Megillah

Once, our esteemed teacher (Rabbi David Moshe of Chortkow) received a letter concerning charity. The community leaders, aware the Rabbi planned to send his son, Rabbi Yisrael, to address the matter, argued it improper for him to leave Torah study for errands. The Rabbi told a story of the Rema, who only sought donations from the wealthy citizens of Krakow, ignoring the masses. The town had a water carrier known as "Yankele the Drunk," who after his hard Friday work, spent all his wages on honey mead. One Friday, en route to buy his drink, a poor widow, Ester, lamented how Yankele was buying drinks while she couldn't afford Shabbat candles. Upon hearing this, Yankele placed his money at her window, went home, lay on his bed, and passed away. On Motzei Shabbat, as the Rema studied, Yankele appeared to him, summoning him to a divine court. Initially dismissing it as a joke, the Rema later investigated and discovered Yankele died Friday. Understanding its import, he awaited further visits. When Yankele reappeared, explaining the heavenly complaint against the Rema for selecting only the wealthy for charity, he realized charity's broader responsibility. From that day, he pledged inclusivity in charity, which resolved heavenly concerns.

After recounting the tale to his followers, the Rabbi concluded, "What applied to the Rema, applies equally to us...

Rabbi Chaim Meir Yechiel Shapira of Narael, based on Rabbi Morichov's recollection from the Elder of Chortkow

(Collected Teachings - Chortkow - p.128)

Heard from my father, who heard in youth from truthful people, that due to a calamity or another reason, the Rema stayed in a village near Krakow, leaving behind many writings now housed in a noble’s archives. From the Rema's residence there, the noble rose in stature and retained the manuscripts inscribed into family legacy, aired annually to protect them. I possibly heard from one who witnessed these displays. Who knows if they still exist today.

Rabbi Ephraim Zalman Margaliot"Noble Forebears" p.23

...Now I'll declare genuine: My cherished son Avraham visited the Rema's grave in Krakow, reading from his tombstone stating his demise on Lag Ba’Omer, aged thirty-three... The cemetery’s close to the Rema’s home, who dedicated a property as a synagogue, marked by the year 'Return to Hashem.' This, my son detailed from his visit, venerating their graves... However, "Noble Forebears" records by Rabbi Ephraim Zalman Margaliot assert contrary, with evidence of a different death year and age at passing. Extensive review shows Rema's lifespan in Krakow as leader spans thirty-three years though most chronicles years as fifty-two. Review detailed accounts.

The esteemed Chida

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