The Rambam on the Table

The Tosher Rebbe once related that Rav Mottel of Neshchiz used to keep a copy of the Rambam's Yad HaChazakah on his table at all times. When his son, Rav Yitzchok of Neshchiz, was asked why his father kept this custom, he explained that his father once had a vision in which the Rambam appeared before him with a complaint: "Why do you not study my sefer?"

"I apologize," answered Rav Mottel, "but with people coming to me day and night with their problems, I simply cannot help them and also find time to study your sefer."

The Rambam replied, "At least keep a copy of my sefer on your table. I promise that if you keep a copy before you at all times, then whenever you need to help a Jew and bring some yeshuah for someone, you need only open my sefer and look inside. I assure you that you will find some cure and manner of healing."

"That," concluded Rav Yitzchok, "is the reason for this custom."