2187 —מדוע חסידות נקראת חסידות, תכלית השם

B"H, 7 Menachem Av, 5713.

Brooklyn.

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

Shalom u'Vrachah!

I acknowledge receipt of your letters from Motzaei Shabbos Kodesh Chukas, the 20th, 26th of Tammuz and Rosh Chodesh Menachem Av.

Regarding your comment about calling the teachings of Chassidus by the name "Chassidus" (which even Rabbeinu HaZaken used for it—as is known from Iggeres HaKodesh on the topic and order of avodah in studying Chassidus printed in Ginzai Nistaros p. 45)—and not after the Rebbeim, etc.: This is similar to how we call the Torah of Hashem in general simply "Torah," based on its effect—meaning instruction for daily life for the soul as it is connected to the body. So too with Chassidus: its name points to its purpose. As is well known from Rabbeinu HaZaken's saying—when asked what is Chassidus, he answered: to become someone who does not mind harm to himself so long as he prevents harm to another, based on our Sages in Niddah (17a).

I am very deeply pained—as I have written many times—by the delay in sending Kehot publications to Eretz HaKodesh (may it be rebuilt and established), especially since Elul and Tishrei are approaching and arrangements should have been made so that by then the books—especially those on Chassidus—would already be there and could be distributed at a low price.

Enclosed is the kuntres that was published not long ago.

With blessings for success in all good.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that calling these teachings "Chassidus" highlights their essential purpose: guiding daily life toward selflessness and care for others. He also urges timely distribution of Chassidic texts so they can inspire people during important months.