3149 —בחירת שתילי אתרוגי קלבריה משדות מסורתיים לא מעובדים

B"H, 1st of Tevet, 5715.

Brooklyn.

Haraha"g vaharaha"ch iy"a nu"n oseik b'tzt"z Morenu Harav Mordechai HaKohen

Shalom u'Vrachah!

In response to your letter from Motzaei Shabbat Kodesh, the eve of the 24th of Kislev: Regarding what I wrote about Calabria etrogim, it is well known that the highest standard is what has been practiced since the days of the Baalei HaTosafot—to take etrogim from there, as brought in Shut Chatam Sofer and quoted in Shaar HaKolel (the reasons according to Kabbalah are a separate matter). Therefore, one should strive to take seedlings and cuttings from that region, and ideally from the same field from which etrogim have been taken all these years. Even better if it is not from an orchard—that is, not a plot tended by people—but rather from a forest. Certainly such areas can be found.

Regarding what you wrote about the issue of orlah: Haran Sheyichye Alboim and especially his father-in-law Reb D. Ludmir Sheyichye have practical experience in this matter, as it is said. Therefore, you can inquire with them for details on how to take the tree with its rock in a way that ensures it is sufficient.

Certainly at the farbrengen on the bright day of Yud-Tes Kislev you also participated in the division of Shas, and most importantly made good resolutions regarding practical daily life. It is unfortunate that, as appears from your silence, nothing like this is being published in the Italian press—even though someone capable can be found locally for this task—even after the departure of Avrech Naeh Sheyichye.

Blessings and regards,
In the name of the Lubavitcher Rebbe shlita,
A. Kwint
Secretary

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that for maximum hiddur in Calabria etrogim, one should seek out traditional sources—ideally non-cultivated fields—and consult experienced individuals regarding halachic concerns like orlah. He encourages publicizing positive communal activities and making strong resolutions in daily life.