3. The purpose of the ceremony:
An Upsherinish represents the child’s formal start of education in Torah and Mitzvos. The main aspect of this custom is the haircut which leaves the son with visible Peyos, thus fulfilling the Mitzvah of not shaving the sideburns, as well as leaving the Jewish imprint on the face of the young child.[1] Aside for the educational aspects of leaving the Peyos on the child, it also draws onto the soul of the child additional holiness.[2] It is also customary to be particular to educate the child from this time and onwards to perform other religious duties, such as wearing a Yarmulka, Tzitzis, saying morning blessings, Kerias Shema Sheal Hamita, and other matters of the like. In essence, the Upsherinish is the inauguration of a Jewish boy into Torah and Mitzvos.
| The power of the ceremony in the child’s education:
The Rebbe states that on the day of the third birthday, there is a great revelation in heaven above to assist the child in his spiritual education in Torah and Mitzvos. Cutting the hair to form out the Peyos, and performing the Upsherinish ceremony, is thus a great custom amongst the customs of Israel.[3] On this day one has an opportunity to draw additional holiness onto the soul of the child, in both spiritual and material matters.[4] |
Educating the child in having Peyos as done generationally certainly draws down great holiness onto the soul of the child.[5]
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[1] Mishneh Chassidim Iyar Vesivan 1:7; Ginas Veradim Gan Hamelech 62; Shaareiy Teshuvah 531:7; Kaf Hachaim 531:30; Shivim Temarim 68 Kapos Temarim 14; Igros Kodesh Rayatz 2:438; Brought in Hayom Yom 4th Iyar; Sefer Haminhagim p. 87; Divrei Yatziv Y.D. 133; Shefa Chaim Michtavei Torah 5:357
[2] Igros Kodesh 14:313
[3] Igros Kodesh Rebbe Rayatz 2:438; Igros Kodesh 5:21; Sefer Haminhagim p. 87
[4] Igros Kodesh 14:313
[5] Igros Kodesh Rebbe Rayatz 2:438
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