1477 —פסח, יציאת מצרים, וחינוך כל ילד יהודי

B"H, Rosh Chodesh Nissan, 5712.

Brooklyn, NY.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

The days of the festival of Pesach are approaching. Every matter in the world teaches a lesson to a thoughtful person—whether in matters between man and G‑d or between man and his fellow—or both. It is very easy, with proper contemplation, to find such lessons in the eyes of Torah—Torah meaning instruction for life—as its name "Torat Chaim" (Torah of Life) and its mitzvos indicate. Especially so regarding its general principles.

One of the most unique among these is the remembrance of the Exodus from Egypt—a great foundation and strong pillar in our Torah and faith—which differs from all other miracles in that we are commanded to recall it (and also the splitting of the sea) every day. Even more so are we commanded at the start of Pesach—on the night when the festival is sanctified.

There are many things to learn both from this concept itself and from its manner and details. Here I wish to emphasize just one point—a point common to both the beginning and end of Pesach—which contains a practical lesson for our lives not only during the festival but throughout the entire year. For this is indeed the purpose: that all influences and lights revealed on festivals should extend through all days of the year—especially those of Pesach.

The beginning of Pesach's laws and customs—as soon as night falls—is the Seder. Immediately at its start—and as one of its main elements—is: "Vehigadeta levincha" (And you shall tell your child). We change and introduce several things to arouse curiosity in children. Moreover, this obligation applies not only regarding wise sons but also: one wise, one wicked, one simple, and one who does not know how to ask. All must be gathered for the Pesach Seder; according to each child's understanding and ability—the father teaches him.

The conclusion of Pesach is marked by another miracle: on this day Hashem split the sea for us, and every Jew points with his finger saying: "Zeh E-li ve'anvehu" (This is my G‑d and I will glorify Him). The sons and daughters born and raised during times of exile's hardship—these children recognized Hashem first. The end of Pesach is bound up with its beginning.

We must strive with all strength and energy to seek ways, advice, and strategies—even if it means changing one's nature or habit—to honor the younger generation and bring every Jewish boy and girl—wise, wicked, simple, or unable to ask—closer to Torah and mitzvos. Then we are assured that with our youth and elders we will go toward redemption with our sons and daughters.

Our generation—a generation born and raised during difficult times of exile's decrees and persecutions (may it never be again), even upon those who survived—and especially upon children whom Hashem has given as signs so that Torah will endure among Israel—even as others rise against them to destroy them (G‑d forbid), through an education that calls evil good and good evil; darkness light and light darkness; bitter sweet and sweet bitter; because they have despised Hashem's Torah—the Holy One will save them (and us) from their hands. This generation will soon merit through Moshiach Tzidkeinu to be also a generation of redemption—the true redemption as foretold by our holy prophets—not by might nor by power but by My spirit says Hashem Tzevakos. Each person will recognize Him; he will point with his finger saying: "Hinei Elokeinu zeh kivinu lo veyoshienu; zeh Hashem kivinu lo nagilah venism'chah b'yeshuaso" (Behold our G‑d! This is whom we hoped for; He saved us! This is Hashem for whom we hoped—we will rejoice in His salvation).

With blessings for a kosher and joyous Pesach,
M. Schneerson

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that Pesach’s core message is about educating every Jewish child—regardless of background—to connect deeply with Torah. By prioritizing outreach even amid challenges, we ensure continuity from exile toward redemption for all generations.