1767 —צער מהעדר המשמעת והדרכה למוסדות כפר חב"ד

B"H, 10 Menachem Av, 5712. Brooklyn.

The administration of Kfar Chabad, may G‑d be upon them for life.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

I acknowledge receipt of your letters from Tuesday, the 4th, 6th, and 24th of Tammuz and Erev Shabbat Pinchas past, as well as from Thursday, the 5th of Menachem Av with its enclosures.

b) The lack of discipline and therefore the disorder prevailing in the village causes me very great pain. I do not know a clear solution to this; seemingly no further advice is needed beyond recognition itself. As explained, recognition also means an inner understanding and feeling that the village bears the name Kfar Chabad. When it was founded it received the blessing of my revered father-in-law the Rebbe (of blessed memory), and it is known what he said here during his lifetime in this world: "He himself leads the matter." Therefore, they must look at all matters of the village as relating to his desire and will and name; this is not just a private matter. The practical difference is twofold: On the right side—since this is his matter and he is the leader of the generation (Nasi HaDor), through him all influences for our generation flow—not only spiritual but also material influences (as is known that this is the role of a Nasi: all influences for the generation—without exception—come through him; thus it was necessary that even physical meat for the generation in the desert be provided through Moshe Rabbeinu, even though he said 'From where shall I have meat?' As explained in Chassidus on this verse). Thus one receives his influence (if only the channels are suited to his desire and will) with success (meaning above natural order), and uses it for healthy and joyful matters. On the other hand, when things are not done properly, this increases negative forces not only in their own domain but also in that of the Nasi HaDor; thus it affects everyone—to a much greater degree than just because all Israel are guarantors for one another. There is no need to elaborate further since this matter is quite simple—especially for those involved in Chassidus who have a sense for connection etc.

d) I have already written about the great necessity to campaign to increase the number of residents in Kfar Chabad. Even if space is currently tight, you wrote long ago that you are preparing to add houses; therefore you must begin campaigning about this as soon as possible.

e) During Mr. Shazar's visit with me he told me plainly that everyone has long agreed they should remain where they are now and that they will be assisted in every way. Therefore I do not understand why your letter writes about this as if there is still doubt.

f) I have already written to Agudas Chabad's administration about an even greater necessity regarding building: 1) a vocational school; 2) an agricultural youth aliyah center. Even though the vocational school mainly fits Lod Yeshiva's program, since for several reasons its location will be in Kfar Chabad, it greatly concerns you too. Especially since there is hope for a source of livelihood through this—as well as from agriculture—for many families. Therefore it is surprising and needs review why these discussions are being conducted so carelessly. May it be G‑d's will that you do not miss your opportunity but use it fully.

g) Regarding what I wrote about assistance received for Shemitah: my surprise was not so much about receiving it (since the sum was very small), but rather that I learned about it incidentally from others (though as known everything is by Divine Providence), while I have long emphasized that for these matters' benefit information must reach here promptly because often there are immediate practical consequences here. This has nothing to do with giving me honor G‑d forbid. I am surprised why this detail has still not been arranged.

h) I am pained that both in Kfar Chabad and generally in our institutions in Eretz HaKodesh each institution acts as an independent unit. Each director views other institutions as competitors or opponents (konkurenten). While it's true each director must first care for his own institution—that's his main job—they must also realize that strengthening any Chabad institution in Eretz HaKodesh will likely help develop their own institution too. Sometimes one institution must even yield temporarily for another's benefit; this isn't really a loss because soon enough good will come even from such a loss. My intention isn't about things beyond reason or law but simply logical matters (and proof: non-Jews also act like this). Sometimes it's suspected that since an institution stands to gain its management may distort judgment—but surely it's always possible to find among Anash several neutral people regarding these issues before whom all sides can present their arguments; then—as per Admor HaEmtza'i's saying: when one describes one's situation to another "it becomes two nefesh Elokis against one nefesh habehamis." My hope is that at least from now on you will correct this both in Kfar Chabad and other institutions.

The particular issue prompting me to write about this:

i) I have already written about lack of development at Kfar Chabad's girls' school. While I understand Anash's cool attitude toward girls' education since they were never used to paying special attention when their own forms were being shaped—we have only our Nesi'im's guidance: my revered father-in-law began taking special interest in girls' education already while still in Riga; especially from 5700 onward he invested much more effort—even more than became publicly known. This teaches us what today's demand is—especially now in Eretz HaKodesh when girls' education has become increasingly essential. Therefore each one among us must change or at least force his opinion/habit and decide within himself—even if he doesn't feel drawn—that since my revered father-in-law instructed so it's certainly essential by Chabad standards! In practice: since I've heard that lack of suitable space most hinders development at Kfar Chabad's girls' school—I strongly urge you again: choose a more suitable place for girls' learning as soon as possible (so word can spread before term begins); ideally also expand kindergarten facilities...

With blessings for success materially and spiritually to each one individually.

Summary

The Rebbe urges discipline, unity among institutions, proactive growth efforts—including girls’ education—and timely communication within Kfar Chabad’s leadership so all actions align with their sacred mission under guidance from above.