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In this deeply personal and profound sermon, we confront the unanswerable question of why tragedies befall righteous individuals, using the life and legacy of Rabbi Zvi Kogan HY"D as a source of inspiration. While acknowledging the pain and darkness, we explore the Jewish response: to transform sorrow into an unstoppable commitment to goodness, light, and purpose. Drawing from the teachings of the Rebbe and our Patriarchs' connection to wells, we learn that even in the depths of despair, the hidden springs of resilience and holiness can be uncovered to nourish a world in desperate need of light.

Key Takeaways

1. The Power of Purpose
   Rabbi Zvi Kogan lived a life filled with purpose, building a vibrant Jewish community. His legacy teaches us that purpose gives life meaning, even in the face of adversity.
2. Transforming Pain into Action
   The Jewish response to tragedy is not paralysis but action. Every mitzvah we do brings Divine compassion into the world and counters the darkness of fear and hatred.
3. The Symbolism of Wells
   Our forefathers' wells symbolize the discovery of hidden strength and inspiration amidst struggle. Just as spring water emerges pure and life-giving from beneath the earth, so too does our greatest light often emerge from our deepest struggles.
4. Small Acts, Big Impact
   Simple, consistent actions—lighting Shabbat candles, giving tzedakah, or teaching children—create ripples of light and holiness that transform the world.
5. Carrying the Legacy
   Rabbi Kogan’s legacy challenges us to be lamplighters, bringing light to the darkest places through courage, faith, and consistent acts of goodness.
6. Faith in Justice
   The phrase HY”D, “May G-d avenge their blood,” reaffirms our faith in G-d's ultimate justice, rejecting chaos and vengeance while affirming our role as bearers of moral clarity.

Pledge A Mitzvah in Memory of Rabbi Zvi Kogan HY"D. https://onemitzvah.org/tzvi/rabbi-bernaths-team

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