3366 —איזון אידיאליזם ומעשיות בהפצת ספרים יהודיים

B"H, 22 Adar, 5715.

Brooklyn.

Haraha"g vavac"h iy"a nu"n Avraham Aba Friedman

Shalom u'Vrachah!

In response to your letter from the 19th of Adar, in which you write about how to approach the work of spreading books and matters of fear of Heaven, strengthening Judaism, and similar topics.

Although you are correct that this work of spreading should be done in the greatest way and among the widest circles, like any new endeavor—and as is known from our Sages' statement that all beginnings are difficult—when one starts with a broad or even average-scale plan, in most cases many difficulties arise. This weakens resolve and leaves an undesirable impression on those involved, resulting in a loss outweighing the gain because the work diminishes over time. In such cases, one must consider what is possible, not only what is desirable. As is well known from the Baal Shem Tov's precise reading of 'VeHayah Reishischa Mitz'ar (And your beginning will be small)' (and specifically through such a beginning), 'Acharischa Yisge Me'od (your end will greatly flourish).' Therefore, the committee founded for this purpose in Detroit should have begun its work from easy to difficult matters and with topics that are certain and free of complications—not with questionable ones. That is, books whose content may seem appropriate but whose author raises significant doubts (and thus I wrote 'may seem,' since inevitably some doubt from a questionable author will also be present in the book). Over time, as committee members become accustomed to this work, the work itself will show them what needs changing from their initial approach. It will then be easy to make changes because the start was not too large or broad. Gradually they can expand their activities both regarding the types of people they engage with and regarding the books and pamphlets they distribute.

It is already well known that Rambam rules in Hilchos Deos that the middle path in such matters is the proper and good path. The times demand—and it is necessary—to engage in spreading activities without delay; on the other hand, however, the beginning should be moderate as explained above.

For these reasons, detailed publicity in newspapers about book titles etc. is also premature at this stage. Besides the fact that it involves extra expenses, by making any kind of list one takes responsibility for all books included therein; likewise, books not included are presented by their absence as being outside the category of kosher books or at least outside those of first rank—which will certainly provoke opposition. At least at the start of this work one should avoid this as much as possible.

I am confident that if you begin as above—working according to these points but with proper energy—especially during these days before Pesach and Chol HaMoed which are suited for such activity—you will surely see success.

With blessings for success in all above and for a kosher and joyous Pesach.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that when starting communal projects like spreading Jewish books or strengthening Judaism, it is wise to begin with clear goals and manageable steps rather than aiming immediately for maximum reach. Gradual growth leads to lasting impact.