חיפוש דרכים חדשות לעומת הליכה בדרכי החסידות המוסדות

B"H, 1 Elul, 5713.

Brooklyn.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

I hereby acknowledge receipt of your two letters in which you write about your state of mind, your general approach to learning, especially in Chassidus texts, and some of your ideas that came to mind regarding the sayings of our Sages.

It seems from your letters that you specifically wish to seek out new paths and innovations of your own—not just a novel interpretation of a concept but also to find a new way altogether. Even if we assume you will not err in your search and will find the true point and the correct path both generally and for yourself in particular, there is no doubt that you will lose much time and effort. As our Sages say: "A person does not truly grasp words of Torah unless he first stumbles over them." In your case, the stumbling would be in the very path itself, not just in a particular matter or law. It is self-evident that since all Jews are believers, children of believers, we know simply that nothing was created in this world for naught—especially regarding a Jewish person whose days are numbered according to his service in Torah and mitzvos which he must fulfill. Every day and hour spent on something already paved by the earlier ones—who are like angels—even if it is considered a mitzvah for which you will receive reward, on the other hand you are not doing your unique service and thus wasting time on matters that are not yours; usually this leads to lacking in what you actually need to do.

This can be compared to someone who wants to learn Mishnah but says he does not want to look at its commentaries; instead he exerts himself until he can arrive at the pilpul (analysis) brought in Gemara, Rashi, Tosafos, etc.

If you heed my advice: turn away from this path. Study Chassidus texts where our Rebbeim have clearly shown us the way—in both revealed Torah study and Chassidus—and also how to perform mitzvos with joy and beauty. Then many things that are now doubtful for you will be seen as already clarified by those before us long ago; many things for which you think you've found an answer—you'll see that's not really the explanation nor is it the right path.

One test to know whether one is on the right path or not is to examine the outcome regarding beautifying mitzvah observance, consistency in Torah study, and warmth in Ahavas Yisrael. Consider your conduct in all these areas honestly: did your involvement with these studies mentioned in your letter lead to an increase in all these areas—or on the contrary, did it cause weakness? There is no need to elaborate further.

The conclusion from all this: set aside certain hours each day from focusing on your talents and essence; instead learn practical halachos necessary for daily life as well as Chassidus—Tanya, Derech Mitzvosecha, etc. For heavenly assistance: every weekday before prayer give some coins to tzedakah; after prayer each day—weekday, Shabbos or Yom Tov—recite Tehillim according to its daily division for the month. May Hashem grant you success to stand on "the king's road," not searching for new paths or trails; it will be good for you both materially and spiritually.

With blessings for a good inscription and sealing for a good year and Torah study with awe of Heaven.

Summary

The Rebbe guides against unnecessary innovation when established chassidic teachings provide clear direction. True spiritual progress is measured by increased mitzvah observance, Torah study consistency, and love for fellow Jews.