1239 —הוספה בתורה, עסקנות ציבורית, והתרוממות בקדושה

B"H, 15 MarCheshvan, 5712.

Brooklyn, NY.

Havavac"h iy"a num"m oseik b'tzorchei tzibbur etc. Moshe HaKohen Shayevitz

Shalom u'Vrachah!

I was pleased to receive your letter from Sunday of Parshas Lech Lecha, along with your enclosed donation to the Merkaz L'Inyonei Chinuch and Kehot, and the receipts are attached herewith.

I strongly hope you will share good news regarding your health and the health of your wife (may she live), as well as positive reports from your good activities in public service.

It is known from our Sages that there is no true good except Torah; meaning an action is called a good deed if it brings about—or at least causes—the elevation of the prestige of Torah both for oneself and one's surroundings.

Just as the Torah is longer than the earth's measure, so too are the actions to elevate the prestige of Torah without limit. As our Sages say: "Whoever increases is given more," meaning that whoever increases these activities is granted additional strength, might, enthusiasm, and desire to continue and expand these actions both in quality and quantity.

In general, this applies not only to Torah but also to all matters of holiness; for it is a rule in the realm of holiness that one must always ascend in holiness and never descend. There are even opinions that this rule—to always ascend in holiness—is a Biblical commandment.

Based on the above, we can better understand a story I heard from my revered father-in-law the Rebbe (of blessed memory), whose father—when he was four or five years old—entered on his birthday (20 MarCheshvan) to the Tzemach Tzedek to receive his blessing. The weekly portion then was Parshas Vayeira. Upon entering he began to cry; when the Tzemach Tzedek asked why he was crying, he answered: "Because in this week's portion it says 'Hashem appeared to Avraham Avinu,' so I too yearn that He should appear to me; that's why I am crying." The Tzemach Tzedek replied: "When a Jew—a complete tzaddik—at ninety-nine years old knows he needs to circumcise himself, then he is worthy that the Eibershter should reveal Himself to him."

With wishes for proper health for you and your wife (may she live).

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that true goodness lies in Torah and public service done with increasing dedication. By continually elevating oneself in matters of holiness without limit, one merits greater strength and spiritual growth—and ultimately Divine revelation.