1. Birth of Rebbetzin Nechama Dina
The first day of Cheshvan marks the birth of Rebbetzin Nechama Dina, the wife of the Previous Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak. She was born in the year 5642 (1881). The name Nechama Dina is significant in Chabad, as many girls are named after her. Following the passing of Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka, there was an increase in girls named Chaya Mushka, and similarly, many girls were named Chana after the Rebbe's mother.
2. Family Background
Rebbetzin Nechama Dina was born in Kishinev to Rabbi Avraham Schneersohn, son of Rebbe Yisroel Noach of Niezhin, known as the Maharin. The Maharin was one of the sons of the Tzemach Tzedek, the third Lubavitcher Rebbe. Several sons of the Tzemach Tzedek became Rebbes in their own right, with the youngest son, the Rebbe Maharash, continuing directly in Lubavitch.
3. Marriage to the Previous Rebbe
At just 16 years old, Nechama Dina married the Previous Rebbe. Her life as a Rebbetzin was marked by challenges due to the turbulent times faced by Jewish communities. The Previous Rebbe's life was fraught with difficulties that made her role particularly demanding.
4. Life Challenges and Relocations
The couple faced numerous hardships during their lives, including persecution in Russia and multiple relocations across Europe—to Latvia and Poland—before finally settling in the United States. These physical challenges were compounded by their responsibilities within Jewish life and Chassidus.
5. Final Years and Legacy
In her later years, Rebbetzin Nechama Dina lived in New York. She is buried in the cemetery where many significant figures from Chabad are interred, near the resting place of her husband, the Previous Rebbe, which serves as a place for many to seek blessings and remember her contributions to Jewish life and Chassidus alongside her husband.
Notes
Rebbetzin Nechama Dina (5642–5731 / 1881–1971) – wife of the Previous Rebbe and mother of Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka, the wife of the Rebbe. See 13 Elul 5657 – her wedding.
Rabbi Avraham Schneersohn – her father. See 2 Cheshvan – his yahrzeit. Her mother, Rebbetzin Yocheved, passed away on 16 Cheshvan.
Rebbe Yisroel Noach of Niezhin (the Maharin) – her grandfather, a son of the Tzemach Tzedek. See 17 Nissan – his passing.
The Previous Rebbe – see 10 Shevat – his passing.
Rebbetzin Chaya Mushka – her daughter, wife of the Rebbe. See 22 Shevat – her yahrzeit.