1152 —חיזוק היהדות בבאר שבע ובסביבותיה

B"H, 25 Menachem Av, 5711.

Brooklyn, NY.

Haraha"g vavac"h iy"a num"m etc. Shlomo Tanewitzki

Shalom u'Vrachah!

On this occasion I wish to bring to your attention—as you are the rabbi of Be'er Sheva—that in this city and its surroundings several new settlements have recently been established. According to information received here, the state of Yiddishkeit in these places is cause for concern for various reasons, as is understood. It is therefore incumbent upon everyone present in this region—especially upon the rabbi who leads the community—to make every effort and do all within his power to strengthen Yiddishkeit in all its details.

It is well known that my revered father-in-law, the Rebbe, said: "One action is better than a thousand sighs." Surely you are also aware of this saying. It is certain that an emissary—and every rabbi who serves his community with distinction is an emissary of the Merciful One—fulfills his mission. Yet our Sages have said: "We only urge those who are already zealous," which teaches two things: a) it is permissible to encourage; b) encouragement brings benefit. Let this urging serve only as an enhancement.

It is known that from Tu B'Av onward, whoever increases [in good deeds], more is added for him.

I conclude as I began—with blessings that you should share good news regarding your wife's improved health.

I saw on your letterhead that you are the author of Birkat Shlomo. As I do not have this sefer in my library, I am interested to know if it can be obtained.

In a separate package I am sending you the kuntres published for 12 Tammuz—the festival of redemption of my revered father-in-law, the Rebbe zatzal nishmaso Eden yagen aleinu amen.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that strengthening Yiddishkeit requires both personal initiative and communal responsibility. Even those already dedicated benefit from encouragement and increased effort brings greater blessing.