Learning with mesirus nefesh

During Napoleon’s campaign to conquer the world, the Rebbe’s of the time were divided about whether or not his success would bode good for the Jewish nation. The Alter Rebbe was of the opinion that the success of Napoleon, while improving the material lot of the Jews, would be very detrimental for them spiritually. Therefore, the Alter Rebbe was vehemently opposed to Napoleon, to the extent of sending his Chassidim to assist the Russian army, including spying on their behalf etc.

Once, the Alter Rebbe invited the Mitteler Rebbe to join him in learning a piece of Zohar. At that very moment, however, there was great tumult outside on account of the sightings of French soldiers, who appeared to be overrunning the country. The Mitteler Rebbe turned to the Alter Rebbe in concern, saying: “Father, what happened to your promise to me that the enemy would not succeed?!”

The Alter Rebbe reassured his son, saying: “I swear to you that the army of Napoleon will meet their defeat here”. The Mitteler Rebbe was calmed, and wanted to now learn the Zohar. The Alter Rebbe, however, indicated that now it was too late, saying “For that Zohar you needed to display mesirus nefesh!”

The Mitteler Rebbe recounted the story, saying that for years he suffered great pain on account of the missed Zohar.