1992 —הקצאת זמן הישיבה ללימוד ענינים מרובים ולידיעת התניא בע"פ

B"H, 26 Teves, 5713.

Brooklyn.

Haraha"ch vavac"h iy"a nu"n oseik b'tzt"z etc. Moharanan Nissan Neminov

Shalom u'Vrachah!

Regarding what you wrote about your distress over the matter of memorizing Tanya that you instituted: The virtue of knowing Tanya by heart is well known, as stated in the talk of my father-in-law, the Rebbe, in 5691 (Riga), and also see the letter printed at the end of Ha'aros u'Kitzurim l'Tanya. What was said in my name on this matter is only this: since the students are limited in their study time and therefore lack even a superficial knowledge in several areas, it is evident that the yeshiva schedule should be devoted to acquiring knowledge in several subjects, and consequently there is not so much time left for memorizing by heart. However, it is understood that this should not cause you any distress or similar feelings—especially since you informed my father-in-law, the Rebbe, about this at the time.

It would be appropriate to speak with the students: since in Paris they spend all day within the walls of the yeshiva, they should dedicate some of their own time to memorizing by heart—not only during yeshiva study hours but also from their personal time—in addition to whatever time is set aside for this in the yeshiva schedule.

Regarding your daughter and son-in-law, Rabbi [Vilidehem], and their children—may they live—all is well. The bris took place at its proper time. May they raise their children to Torah, marriage, and good deeds; may your eyes and those of your wife see much true chassidic nachas from them and from all your descendants.

With blessings for success in your holy work and for proper health—for a healthy body is one of the ways of Hashem.

P.S.: I spoke with Haraha"g v'Haraha"ch iy"a nu"n Moharba"g before his trip from here regarding efforts for his trip here; if possible—that he should come some days before Yud Shevat. It is surprising that you do not mention anything about this in your letter. Enclosed is a booklet recently published.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that while yeshiva schedules may limit time for memorization like Tanya by heart, students can use their own extra time to pursue such goals. Prioritizing both breadth of knowledge and depth through personal effort brings blessing and success.