Rabbi, Mystic, Leader - The life and Times of Rabbi Levi Yitzchak Schneerson

Rabbi, Mystic, Leader - The life and Times of Rabbi Levi Yitzchak Schneerson


Compiled By: Rabbi Naftali Tzvi Gottleib

Translated By: Elchonon Lesches


This biography uncovers the roots of the dedication and sacrifice that nurture the current Lubavitch movement. Rich with details, it provides perspective, inspiration, courage and insight into the towering personality of Rabbi Levi Yitzchak Schneerson, Rabbi of Yekatrinoslav, Ukraine, father of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson.

Whether it was defying the Communists, informers or other radical social elements, Rabbi Levi Yitzchak, stood in the breech at the risk of his life to keep Judaism vibrant and alive in the Soviet Union.

Brimming with details documented only after the fall of communist Russia, the story heartbreakingly portrays the final years when Rabbi Levi Yitzchak was tortured and exiled to the remote village of Chi’ili, Kazakhstan, for “counterrevolutionary” activities. 

Under the most grueling living conditions, beset with hunger, sickness and little hope of release, we see the portrait of the inner man—the man who lived each moment by the dictates of his soul and his faith in G-d.

Aided by the indomitable spirit of his life-long partner, Rebbetzin Chana, Rabbi Levi Yiztchak was able to write his novel Torah insights with natural ink manufactured by the Rebbetzin from grass and herbs she secretly gathered in the fields.

Even under such brutal circumstances, exiles, refugees and local people continued to flock to him. His advice, encouragement and wisdom, revealed the noble soul of a spiritual giant.