HAZAK LAUSANNE
Live your Jewish identity!
In the spirit of Chabad and inspired by the Lubavitcher Rebbe's vision to reach every Jew with warmth and love, we offer a welcoming and inclusive space to connect with your roots and embrace your identity.
With thought-provoking classes and discussions, inspiring holiday celebrations and exciting activities for all ages, there's something for everyone at Hazak. Explore and celebrate our Jewish heritage together.
"אִישׁ אֶת-רֵעֵהוּ, יַעְזֹרוּ; וּלְאָחִיו, יֹאמַר חֲזָק"
"L'un prête assistance à l'autre et chacun dit à son frère: "HAZAK!""
Isaïe, Chapitre 41, 6
A Case for Shmurah Matzah
from the desk of Rabbi M. Mendel Naparstek
Dear Friends,
As we approach this year’s Passover, we are reminded that this holiday is not just a time for remembrance, but a time for deep, visceral experience. Through the seder, we immerse ourselves in the story of the Exodus, reliving the journey of our ancestors as if it were our own. Every bite of matzah, every sip of wine, and every action performed during the seder helps us internalize the timeless lessons of freedom, redemption, and resilience. As we eat the matzah of affliction, we reflect on the suffering of our ancestors in Egypt, and as we eat the matzah hastily prepared before the redemption, we rejoice in the freedom that followed.
Our sages say that one who is meticulous with the customs of Pessa'h will be protected from sin for the rest of the year. It is for this reason than many prefer to use shmura matzah; the "rolex" of all matzah. The term "shmura" means "watched" in Hebrew, referring to the careful supervision of the entire process, from harvesting the wheat to baking the matza, to ensure that it does not become leavened.
The Zohar teaches that the matzah we consume on the first night of Passover directly affects our faith, while the matzah of the second night brings healing. With this in mind, it is our hope that the matzah we partake in this year will be of the highest caliber, aligning with the sacred standard of shmurah matzah. As we eat this matzah, may it inspire a deep connection to our faith and bring about the spiritual healing we all seek.
This year, the message of Passover resonates more powerfully than ever. As we sit together around the seder table, our yearning for freedom is felt profoundly. We do not only remember the liberation of our ancestors; we also yearn for the liberation of all those still in bondage. May it be G-d’s will that this Passover be the ultimate festival of freedom, bringing the swift and complete redemption of the Jewish people, and the liberation of all hostages, wherever they may be.
If you would like to receive shmurah matzah for your seder, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We are happy to assist you in obtaining this special matzah to enhance your Passover experience.
Wishing you all a meaningful and joyous Passover, filled with faith, healing, and the hope for true redemption.
Warmly,
Rabbi M. Mendel Naparstek