The Baba Sali Behind the Wheel

Rav Dovid Chai Abuchatzeira of Nahariyah used to relate that his father-in-law was often the driver for the Baba Sali in Morocco. Once, the Baba Sali traveled to Casablanca to take part in a seudas mitzvah, and as was his custom, he gave out lechaim from a strong drink called machiyah. When the seudah ended, he asked the driver to take him back to Tafilalet that same day.

His relatives asked why he was in such a hurry and could not wait until the next day. He explained that he had to get back because he was having guests. "How do you know you are having guests?" they asked. He smiled and said, "I know."

Finally they told him the problem. His driver had had one lechaim too many, since he could not refuse a lechaim from the tzaddik, and he was drunk and merry and in no condition to drive. The Baba Sali answered, "There is no need to worry. Sit him in the driver's seat, start the engine, and I will do the rest." The family was used to the Baba Sali's miraculous ways, and seeing how firmly he insisted, they did as he said.

They sat the driver down and started the engine, and then they watched in wonder as the car drove itself home. They reached Tafilalet by sunrise, and the driver had to be carried to bed, for he had no idea where he was. The Baba Sali arrived safe and sound.