A Captivating Prediction
The avreich, Mr. Ben-Shimol, related the following narrative in order to sanctify Hashem’s Name:
My father was once arrested in France due to a scandal incited by the media. The police were seizing people of stature, in an attempt to extract information regarding specific people whom they were after.
Since my father was completely innocent, he could not provide them with what they wanted. Instead, they imprisoned him for a full nine months, without informing him of the reason of his incarceration. His lawyer averred that the whole thing was extremely suspicious. But he was kept under lock and key, his family sick with worry over his fate.
When Rabbi David Pinto, shlita, arranged to receive people in Paris, my sister asked for his blessing on behalf of our father. She related his words at that meeting, “In another day or two, your father will be released. B’ezrat Hashem, in the merit of the tzaddik, Rabbi Chaim Pinto, everything will be straightened out.”
The truth is, when my sister heard these words, she was in inner turmoil. On the one hand, she believed wholeheartedly in the merit of the tzaddikim and had perfect faith that her family would witness great miracles. But on the other hand, it was difficult to believe that her father would suddenly be a free man.
The unbelievable indeed took place. The very next day, Father was called to stand before the judge, who informed him that his case was closed. He was vindicated and could return home.
- Building of the Kollel Ohr Chaim VeMoshe, Paris
Father phoned the family and asked for them to come for him. They were full of questions. Who, what, where, and when did he obtain his release? He only said that B’chasdei Shamayim he was freed. He himself had no explanation. His release became publicized, to everyone’s delight.
I have no doubt that from the moment that Rabbi David prayed for my father’s deliverance, Hashem set my father free.
The man’s story caused a tremendous kiddush Hashem.
