2015 —נוכחות השכינה כאשר עשרה מתאספים, אפילו בלי שיחה בדברי תורה

B"H, 16 Shevat, 5713.

Brooklyn.

Mechutan Haraha"ch iy"a nu"n oseik b'tzt"z Morenu HaRav Zev Dov

Shalom u'Vrachah!

I received your letter in due time about the month of redemption, and thank you for the good news about the farbrengen that was held. It is well known from our Sages: "Afilu bi'asara [Shechinta] sharya" (Even when ten are gathered, the Shechinah rests), and as explained by the Alter Rebbe, this applies even if they are not speaking words of Torah (Iggeres HaKodesh sec. 23; see also Kisei Eliyahu on Yerushalmi Eruvin ch. 1 halachah 10). How much more so when those gathered listen to words of Torah! Certainly, good resolutions were also accepted regarding practical action, and may it be G‑d's will that these good thoughts and resolutions will also be drawn into actual deed.

Enclosed is a brief overview about the life history of my revered father-in-law, the Rebbe zatzal nishmaso Eden nasi Yisrael, which will surely be beneficial in strengthening the light of Chassidus in your surroundings.

Blessings for chassidic nachas from all your descendants—and you yourself are included as well.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that whenever ten Jews gather, the Shechinah is present—even without Torah discussion—and even more so when Torah is spoken. He encourages turning good intentions from such gatherings into concrete actions.