1610 —התגברות על מכשולים וקבלת התורה בשמחה ובעומק

B"H, 3 Sivan, 5712.

Brooklyn.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

I pleasantly received your letter from the 21st of Iyar after a long silence, which I regretted without knowing the clear reason for it. Thank G‑d, as you write, all is well with you and your entire family. Certainly, despite what you write in your letter about the various difficulties and disturbances you face—as explained in the teachings of Chassidus—these are only concealments and obscurations given so that one may overcome them and subdue the sitra achra (the side of impurity). Through this, the glory of the Holy One Blessed Be He is revealed in all worlds. Therefore, there is no need to be overly distressed by this; on the contrary, there is reason for joy, as explained in Tanya chapters 27 and 31—see there.

In these days of preparation for receiving the Torah, I conclude my letter with a blessing—in the wording of my revered father-in-law, the Rebbe—may you receive the Torah with joy and inwardness. May it be G‑d's will that you also illuminate your surroundings in this way: to enlighten them with the candle of mitzvah and Torah light—and the luminary within Torah is Chassidus.

With blessings for the festival.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that challenges are meant to be overcome and can lead to greater revelation of G‑dliness. He encourages us to receive the Torah with joy and depth, and to inspire others by spreading Chassidus and mitzvah observance.