For thousands of years, one of the primary ingredients of Jewish prayer has been the sound of song. Indeed, it can be said that the element of music has elevated man in his service to his Creator more so than any other force or human faculty.

It is through the Koach HaNiggun that we can properly express our feelings towards Hashem, and during the Yom Tov of Sukkos, when we are enveloped in Hashem’s warm and loving embrace, there is no better time to express our devotion to Him by way of song. Therefore, we sing Hallel every day, echoing the illustrious words of David HaMelech and his inimitable articulation of praise and longing prayer, thereby filling our decorated dwellings with the harmonious sounds of Divine service.

It is written that the closest place to Hashem in heaven is the Sha’ar HaNeginah – the Gateway of Music. Every once in a while, there is a song that is sent down from above which contains the key to that exalted entrance. And every once in a while, there is a messenger sent to deliver that song – to implant that key – into the hearts and souls of mankind…

I would like to highlight one such song and the holy messenger who transmitted it to the world in today’s Shabbos Chol HaMoed Oldie of the Week. If you have ever had a meal at my Shabbos or Yom Tov table, then you more than likely have witnessed me climb onto this particular soapbox before (it usually occurs at some point between the main course and dessert). You see, the thing is, while the world knows the tune and can sing it with ease, the fact remains that many people still do not know the origin of this monumental melody, nor have they ever heard of its initial emissary – the man who first delivered that special key.

Moh Oshiv has undeniably made its way into the rarified realm of the universally sung, and has quietly become one of the most beloved tunes of Klal Yisroel. Go to any shul, school, or kumzitz of any kind on Rosh Chodesh, Chanukah, or any of the Shalosh Regalim and you will hear it – guaranteed. In this song, composed by Rav Aviezer Wolfson, we find a true portrayal of Jewish feeling and dedication. Its tune conveys the expression of love mixed with the deep emotion which Dovid HaMelech felt when he sang these words, giving thanks to the Creator for His endless kindness.

Now, when I stop people on the street and ask them who sings Moh Oshiv, most will answer, “Mordechai Ben David – now would you please leave me alone?” But the truth is, it was first sung by a nearly-forgotten talent by the name of Leibale Haschel, who, in my opinion, deserves a little more of the credit than he generally receives. It is for this reason that I think a brief bio is in order.

Yehuda Aryeh Leib Haschel was born in Argentina in 1958 to a renowned Chassidic family. Already at a very young age, it was clear that he had extraordinary vocal ability. When he was 14 years old, he, together with his family, made Aliyah to Eretz Yisroel where the wunderkind would begin his rise to professional music stardom.

In 1978, he sang on two tracks for Camp S’dei Chemed’s “Dimensions in Jewish Sound” album. But it was in 1979 that celebrated songwriter R’ Chaim Banet made Haschel a featured soloist for “Hinei Unoichi” – the fourth volume of the popular Seret-Vizhnitz “Ranenu Chassidim” series. From there, he would catch the ear of eminent arranger and accomplished composer Moshe Laufer who would not only take him under his wings, but would help him release his first solo record, Moh Oshiv LaHashem in 1980.

In the years to follow, especially after being voted Israel’s Singer of the Year, Leibale would find himself to be in very high demand. He would make appearances on another 1980 album called “Live Chasidic Wedding,” and sing with Yitzchok Bitton on his first Raya Mahemna album in 1982. That same year, he released his second solo record called “Ad B’li Dai,” and went on to be one of the showcased talents on two of the four Suki & Ding “All Star” records (“Jerusalem” in 1983 and “Simcha” in 1985).

Haschel once again called upon his Chassidic heritage and was the voice of the 1985 “Nigunei Pittsburgh: Yismechu Hashomayim. In 1986, he sang on Chaim Banet’s “Gam Ani Odecha” and would appear on the La Vista “An Evening of Stars” album on which he sang Carlebach’s Mimkomcha. His final solo album was his “Mital Hashomayim Umishmanei Ha’aretz” in 1987, which would be followed by appearances at Sheya Mendlowitz’s 1989 productions of HASC’s A Time for Music Part II concert, and “Welcome Back Yom Tov” studio album.

Throughout his career Leibale would be called upon to perform all over the world and would very often do so free of charge, because besides for a golden voice, he possessed a heart of gold as well. He would open his home to anyone in need, and so in addition to his exceptionally sweet and melodic sound, Leibale became just as known for his superior hospitality and outstanding generosity.

Unfortunately, this Yiddishe gem – a jewel in the world of Jewish music – did not live to see some of his greatest hits become worldwide favorites. Tragically, Leibale Haschel a’h passed away quite suddenly on the 25th of Shvat of 5755 (1995) at the young age of 36. However, at least when it comes to Moh Oshiv, one can certainly imagine the audience that gathers in heaven every month, and throughout the year, when somewhere, without fail, this beautiful song is sung in all its glory.

Wishing all of you a splendid Shabbos Chol Hamoed!