Is one to marry who they love, or is one to learn to love who they married?!
So many are in utter disbelief of the Chassidic dating process. Most often there is a matchmaker who introduces to the parents of the potential bride and groom an individual who they do not know. The research process begins, and if the parents are satisfied with what they have learned about their potential ‘in-law,’ they discuss it with their son/daughter, and then a first date is set. The amount of dates is usual anywhere around 10, give or take, although if still unsure, there can be more. These dates are held in public areas, anywhere from a Hotel lobby over soft drinks, to a restaurant or the likes. If the young man and the young woman decide that they are for each other, they become engaged (yes, the young man proposes), and a wedding date becomes set for anywhere from an average of 3-5 months later. In the interim, the fiancés maintain modesty and moderation in the quantity and quality of their meeting and talking.
Can one, in their furthest stretch of imagination claim that the young couple to be are in love?! Really?! 10 public dates, and they have the deepest of true feelings called love?! Absolutely not! What they have ascertained if but compatibility, chemistry, and a common ground on which to build a partnership, respect and love.
Now, the process of creating love begins. This lecture will explore how one goes about building this love. Simultaneously, it will explore how one builds a feeling of love for G-d.
This lecture is based upon a maamor delivered by the Rebbe in 1964, exploring the mystical powers of Noach’s Ark.
If you have any questions or comments on this lecture please email Rabbi Avrohom Lipszyc at TheJewishMind@icloud.com.
