The Legacy of Rabbi Azriel Meir of Lublin

From His Life

Rabbi Alter Azriel Meir Eiger of blessed memory was born on the holy Shabbat, 25th of Shevat 5633, to his father, Rabbi Avraham, a known scholar, and grandson of Rabbi Leibele Eiger of Lublin. He was raised in a sacred environment, under the guidance of great Torah scholars who imbued him with knowledge and fear of heaven under the vigilant eye of his father and grandfather, sparing no effort to impart to him the treasures of Torah and spirituality. Even in his youth, he gained recognition as a remarkable individual destined to enhance the glory of his ancestors' house.

After marriage, as a young man, he was supported by his father-in-law, the pious benefactor Rabbi Chaim Rokach, descendant of the esteemed Rabbi Elazar Rokach of Amsterdam. After a few years, he settled in Lublin where under his father's inspiring presence, he continued his dedication to Torah and service without interruption, mingling with the great people of his father's circle until he was identified as a special individual.

Recognizing his talents, his father appointed him to document and publish his Torah teachings. These efforts eventually led to the publication of the books 'Scepter of Judah'.

Despite the opportunity to financially benefit from the prestige of Torah, he chose to engage in iron trade and, with Hashem's help, prospered. Nevertheless, he dedicated just a short time each day to business, focusing mainly on Torah and divine service. He became known for his generous charity and kindness, always welcoming those in need with a smile and supporting them in every possible way.

Upon his father's passing on the 22nd of Tevet 5674, Rabbi Azriel Meir found himself leading a community left without a shepherd. Despite initially resisting, he ultimately took on this responsibility alongside his brother, responding to the deep desire of the community.

In his leadership, he adhered to the path of his forebears, maintaining principles of truth and humility, eschewing ostentation and preferring quiet study and service. It was precisely this approach that won him the admiration of many, who saw in him a leader to follow. Although he was reluctant, his compassionate nature compelled him to take on the communal burden and strive for the community's spiritual and material upliftment.

The period of his leadership in Lublin was brief, as the outbreak of World War necessitated his move to Pilov, where he reestablished his court, attracting followers and spreading spiritual light. Yet, this was short-lived due to ensuing hardships, requiring another relocation to Otwock on medical advice, where he continued to inspire until returning to Lublin in 5697. Sadly, the turbulent times of World War II brought about severe trials, culminating in his passing on the 5th of Tammuz, 5701, in Warsaw.

"Crown of Torah," Nisan 5765, p. 19

During his early leadership period, Rabbi Azriel Meir maintained a minimalistic style of leadership, holding his gatherings at home rather than the study hall. Known as a great scholar well-versed in both revealed and hidden Torah traditions, he initially refrained from expansive teachings, citing a teaching that one should publicly share Torah only upon reaching the age of forty-two.

"Yehuda LeKedusho," (Tel Aviv 5761) Vol. 3, p. 136

Once, entering his synagogue during the Sukkot holiday for the Mincha prayer, he found young men casually chatting instead of studying. He sternly reprimanded them, using this incident to clarify a puzzling Talmudic teaching about sleeping under a bed in a Sukkah.

He explained that while one is obligated to sleep in a Sukkah, some leniencies are adopted due to discomfort, especially in cold climates. However, if one chooses to sleep under a bed in a Sukkah, it suggests they are not troubled by discomfort, fulfilling their Sukkah obligation improperly and earning additional accountability for not observing the mitzvah correctly each time.

This insight clarified upon witnessing the negligence in Torah study, emphasizing that constant Torah engagement is a person's ultimate purpose. If one spends Shabbat, free of weekday distractions, engaging in Torah study, it validates their weekday tasks. However, neglecting Torah even on Shabbat indicates unjustifiable negligence. [As told by Rabbi Menachem Mendel Eger of Lublin.]

"Yehuda LeKedusho" (Tel Aviv 5761) Vol. 3, p. 153

When Rabbi Alter Azriel Meir Eger suggested implementing a general business contract, gaining support from notable figures, it addressed the potential for financial dealings to inadvertently involve interest, a severe concern. He advocated for all loans to be structured as business partnerships, allowing the lender to receive a financial return, thus avoiding the prohibition of interest.

Despite awareness limitations and contract accessibility issues, the proposal gained traction, with many communities adopting it, reducing the rigorous difficulties surrounding interest. Known scholars and rabbis recognized the significance of this initiative, striving to establish its practice universally, outlined in his book "Rabbinical Decree" with endorsements from renowned authorities.

Encouraging annual contract execution, he published guidance in religious newspapers, promoting widespread adoption. His continual written correspondence with Torah giants reflects the importance and integration of this enactment within community norms.

This initiative finds detailed exploration in published discussions and his writings addressed the critical nature of regulating interest practices, reinforcing the ethical conduct of financial trade.

"Yehuda LeKedusho" (Tel Aviv 5761) Vol. 3, p. 199

Desired by All

The Torah discussions led by Rabbi Azriel Meir served not only as learning sessions but also provided guidance and inspiration, blending profound insights into the fundamentals of faith and piety with a distinct approach rooted in genuine Hasidic philosophy.

Sadly, the majority of these precious discourses and teachings were lost during the tragic destruction of European Jewry, taking with them the deep wisdom and sanctity imbued by their leader.

One discourse remains from those dark times, shared by a surviving disciple.

A young scholar sought his counsel during Shavuot, preparing diligently to engage in meaningful conversation. Upon presenting a deep Talmudic discussion, he asked for spiritual guidance. Rabbi Azriel Meir responded:

"My dear son, although Torah knowledge depends in part on one's natural intellect, the pursuit of awe and piety is solely dependent on one's desire. As the Psalmist says (Psalms 111:2), 'Great are the works of the Lord, sought out by all who desire them.' Talents may be divine gifts, yet striving for spiritual growth is a result of one's own yearning." [Told by Rabbi R. Malachi, who personally experienced this teaching.]

"Yehuda LeKedusho" (Tel Aviv 5761) Vol. 3, p. 156