The Legacy of Rabbi Aryeh Leibush of Ternigrad

His Life

Around the year 1770, Rabbi Aryeh Leibush was born to his father, the scholar Rabbi Simcha, the son of Rabbi Moshe, the rabbi of Satanov, and the grandson of the famous Rabbi Zvi Hirsh Harif. The family name "Halberstadt" came from the city where his ancestor, Rabbi Zvi Harif, lived. Beyond this lineage, Rabbi Aryeh Leibush hailed from a noble line of rabbis and scholars, tracing back to King David.

When he came of age, he married the righteous Rebbetzin Miriam, daughter of Rabbi David of Ternigrad, son of Rabbi Shmuel, and relative of Rabbi Israel Meshulam Zalman of Konitz. The Rebbetzin also came from a distinguished family of holy individuals.

He settled near his father-in-law in Ternigrad but often returned to Brody.

In Ternigrad, his sons, Rabbi Moshe Yosef and the "Divrei Chaim," were born. This is confirmed by the "Divrei Chaim" himself, who recollects events from his childhood in Ternigrad.

Until the city's destruction, people would show visitors Rabbi Aryeh Leibush's house, highlighting the room where the "Divrei Chaim" was born. His mother donated a synagogue curtain in his honor, which was displayed whenever his descendants visited.

Rebbetzin Miriam, being the only daughter of prominent parents, inherited their vast wealth. Rabbi Aryeh Leibush engaged in extensive trade but never ceased his Torah study and devotion.

During a stay in Brody, a great fire destroyed much of the city, including his home.

Even before the fire, Rabbi Aryeh Leibush wasn't wealthy, as he generously supported various charitable causes. A wealthy acquaintance once offered him 500 rändlich as a gift, but he refused, quoting the Book of Lamentations: "How did Hashem cast down from heaven to earth the glory of Israel," embracing the humility brought by financial loss.

After the fire, Rabbi Aryeh Leibush relocated to Sasov, home to Rabbi Moshe Leib of Sasov, where he often visited with his young son, the "Divrei Chaim."

Rabbi Aryeh Leibush did not stay long in Sasov due to its modest commerce, preferring the bustling city of Brody for his business endeavors and family upbringing.

Back in Ternigrad, Rabbi Aryeh Leibush lost his wife Miriam, who was buried there.

Her grandson recounted a miraculous dream she had of a woman being punished in the afterlife for neglecting a specific commandment. Rebbetzin Miriam awoke to find her apron half-burnt, reminding her of the vision’s importance.

A devout woman, she frequently consulted the righteous sage Rabbi Moshe Leib of Sasov. When pregnant with the "Divrei Chaim," she sought his blessing for healthy childbirth; he rose from his seat, declaring her unborn child would be a great leader.

After Miriam's passing, Rabbi Aryeh Leibush moved to Przemyśl, where he became renowned for his scholarly excellence and was appointed as a judge in a prestigious rabbinical court that required divine insight.

On July 15, 1831, Rabbi Aryeh Leibush passed away and was buried in the old cemetery in Przemyśl. His gravestone inscription reflected his lifelong devotion to Hashem.

Upon hearing of his father’s passing, the "Divrei Chaim," then in Sanz, expressed regret at the news, believing his siblings should have informed him first to say kaddish.

The sage from Nasod recounted a time when the "Divrei Chaim" intended to visit his father's grave after prayer but refrained due to a custom he respected regarding those absent for a decade.

Rabbi Aryeh Leibush left behind illustrious offspring, including Rabbi Moshe Yosef of Zbarazh, the "Divrei Chaim," and Rabbi Avigdor of Dukkla. His sons-in-law included notable rabbinic figures.

Rabbi Aryeh Leibish Shermeler "Sanz", Av 2004, p. 45

An Extraordinary Story

I heard from the revered leader about Rabbi Aryeh Leibush of Ternigrad, the father of the "Divrei Chaim," known for his holiness. Reluctant to accept any rabbinical authority early on, he engaged in trade, trusted for his integrity. During a massive fire in his city, despite losing everything, he danced with joy, grateful to still serve Hashem. He explained he'd be compelled to act differently if he were a non-Jew, but as a Jew, he remained steadfast in faith.

On a commercial trip to Danzig, Rabbi Leibush stayed with Rabbi Moshe of Pshavorsk, known for not recognizing his daughter. Hearing Rabbi Moshe lament about his inability to marry her due to lack of funds, Rabbi Leibush offered the needed amount, blessed by Rabbi Moshe for a son who'd enlighten the world – his "Divrei Chaim."

Rabbi Aryeh Leibush also corresponded with the Rabbi of Apta, who expressed a wish to have met the parents capable of bringing forth such a holy soul.

Later, fearing solitude in a sukkah, Rabbi Leibush invited a man, promising him half of his share in the world to come. Years later, when the man was gravely ill, Rabbi Leibush appeared in a dream, offering to trade that share for additional years and prosperity, which the man accepted. However, he later regretted the trade, seeking the "Divrei Chaim"'s aid, who offered otherworldly assistance.

Rabbi Aryeh Leibush's legacy continues through his sons and grandsons, enriching Jewish faith and community.