2964 —ציפיות מבוגרי חב"ד להיות פעילים בקהילת חב"ד

B"H, Eve of Rosh HaShanah, 5715.

Brooklyn.

Haraha"ch iy"a nu"n etc. Aharon Eliyahu Gershoni

Shalom u'Vrachah!

Some time ago I received your letters directly and also through others, in which you write about the idea to publish a book on the persecutions against Judaism in our country in earlier times, and you ask my opinion on this. It is difficult to express an opinion on such a matter without prior specific knowledge about the content of the book, whether its purpose is to add a chapter to Jewish history from that dreadful period or if it also aims to highlight aspects of Kiddush Hashem as they relate particularly to observant Judaism. In any case—whether in the first way, the second way, or otherwise—the book must include accurate information: names, places, times, etc. It is necessary to consider whether there is any danger for relatives who are still behind the curtain (in those countries), especially since there is no clear information from there about what is happening with them or their attitude toward such matters in general. On the other hand, writing only in general terms without mentioning names requires consideration as to whether such writing will achieve the desired benefit.

Regarding your question if I have material on this subject: certainly I do not have organized material—especially since the writings and notes from the estate of my father-in-law, the previous Rebbe zatzal, have not yet been properly arranged—and it is very likely that there is no such material in writing. It still needs to be gathered from Anash who came from our country and preserved it in their memory; I have not yet found anyone to take up this work.

You surely know that from German restitution funds a large sum was allocated for research into recent Jewish history; however, their main focus is Poland and similar countries where these concerns do not apply. Certainly also in Eretz HaKodesh it should be possible to clarify details about this support through appropriate offices and individuals.

Relying on what you wrote at the beginning of your letter—that you studied at Yeshivas Tomchei Temimim etc.—the words and actions of tzaddikim endure forever; this also applies to the strengths they invested in their students. Therefore it is surprising that you do not mention your good activities in the Chabad vineyard. It is well known there is an expectation and complaint: "They made me keeper of the vineyards (that is, these too are vineyards and must be guarded), but my own vineyard I did not guard," which means there is a deficiency that gives rise to a claim—not so much an external claim but one from within one's own soul. May it be G‑d's will that you bring good news about this soon.

As we approach the new year coming upon us and all Israel for good and blessing, I hereby express my blessing to you and all yours: may you be inscribed and sealed for a good and sweet year materially and spiritually.

Blessings.

P.S. Regarding the polemic pamphlet against...: It is understood that how one conducts polemics depends on local conditions and reader response. Nevertheless, these points are essential: (a) When discussing an existing religion—not creating a new one—it is understood one must consider its fundamentals; (b) It is also clear that only someone whom religion does not exclude as a believer can serve as critic or thinker; (c) The decision as to who is a believer or heretic does not rest with just anyone but depends on existing religious principles. As a result of all this: The very approach of... stands opposed to Moshe's Torah and Israel; therefore all his arguments—whether they seem logical or not—are irrelevant to our faith. Also, if he intends to create a new religion he should not mislead readers by saying otherwise. By clarifying these points appropriately much ink and paper can be saved.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that those who learned in Chabad institutions are expected to actively contribute within Chabad circles. He stresses personal responsibility for communal involvement while offering practical advice regarding sensitive historical documentation and religious debate.