Approbation 5 for Likutay Moharan by Rabbi Efraim Zalman Margolis author of Bais Efraim and Pri Tevuah

Approbation for Likutay Moharan

Note from the English Translator
Rabbi Ephraim Zalman Margulies (1762–1828), a towering figure in both Talmudic scholarship and Chassidic piety, was renowned across Jewish communities far and wide for his extraordinary intellect and mastery of Torah’s revealed and esoteric dimensions. Based in Brod, he served as a leading rabbinic authority, authoring significant works such as Beit Ephraim, a responsa collection, and Pri Tevua, a commentary on the Torah, alongside other writings. Known for his sharp analytical mind and deep spiritual insight, he was celebrated as a "great man among giants," whose influence extended through his leadership and teachings. His approbation for Likutay Moharan reflects his recognition of Rabbi Nachman’s profound contributions, cementing his legacy as a pivotal scholar and spiritual guide in the Chassidic movement.

By the honorable Rabbi, the distinguished genius, renowned across all corners of the earth and distant seas, the great and towering sage, sharp and erudite in all chambers of Torah, reaching the heavens, may his light shine, our teacher Rabbi Ephraim Zalman Margulies of Brod, of blessed memory, author of Beit Ephraim, Pri Tevua, and other works:

I have heard a report, O Ephraim. For many days, a great voice has resounded, praising Rabbi Nachman, that he is a great man in Torah and Chassidism, a holy man who unravels riddles, knows the secrets of wisdom and the rose of mysteries, deciphering hidden matters and revealing secrets in Scripture, Talmud, and Aggadah. This is his inheritance from his ancestors, from fathers to descendants, for he draws from the holy lineage, a shoot from the divine stock of the renowned Baal Shem Tov, of blessed memory, a man of delights. His seed is blessed, a holy seed whose name and deeds testify to their sanctity. These men are people of virtue, drawing hearts with cords of enlightened discipline, gladdening hearts, enlightening eyes, raising the stumbling, and setting them on their feet. From among them has emerged a great and mighty tree, Rabbi Nachman, the holy Chassid, renowned and exalted, who has written a work of beauty and praise, expositions on verses and Aggadot of Rabba bar Bar Hana. His exposition is sanctified, like that of a Tanna requiring intention. These words are pleasant and delightful, beloved and pleasing to those who read them and walk in their simplicity, sweeter to the listening ear than flute or drum, sweeter than honey and nectar. The aforementioned holy Rabbi requested this of me, to see my signature affixed, a splendid writing, exalted in holiness. Though I am indeed unworthy that he sent to me, especially since how can I grasp words that stand at the heights of the world? I have not entered into judgment over every hidden matter—there, lions stand before you, and you ask the hidden—yet my great love, like mighty waters, cannot be quenched. I am a companion to all who fear God and His holy ones, and my soul desires to fulfill the will of the righteous, may their merit protect us. I said, let it be, what shall I desire? According to the need of the hour, I glanced at the beginnings of sections, as one peering through lattices, and found in them words of substance, hidden delights that please. All within it contributes to holiness, and I raise my hand to join those who approve, following the words of the great sages of our time who preceded me. I am found among those who fulfill their request, joining the assembly of the holy Rabbis, the exalted sages, for Torah and testimony. With their decree, I establish my hand, a decree binding for ten years from the day it is brought to the altar of the printing press. Let any who approach beware for their soul, fearing serpents and vipers’ heads. Those who heed the words of the sages will inherit the good of the upright.

The words of the insignificant one among colleagues, sealing the matter of truth in the weekly Torah portion of (containing) 'and I will remove affliction from your midst', and to 'fulfilling the number of your days' (gematria 568-) of the 6th millennium (5568), in Brod.

[Signed by],
the insignificant Ephraim Zalman Margulies of Brod