3693 —הרחבת העבודה החינוכית והתמודדות עם התנגדות

B"H, 2 Menachem Av, 5715.

Brooklyn.

HaAvrech HaVavac"h Iy"a Nu"n Osek b'tzt"z Shalom Dov Lipschitz

Shalom u'Vrachah!

In response to your letter from the 25th of Tammuz... It is clear and self-evident that you must strengthen your efforts in expanding holy education without regard for obstacles or opponents. It is best to keep in mind the points from my previous letters—namely, not to scatter your energies on matters outside your primary and main mission. May it be the will of Hashem that the desire of the L‑rd in your hands will succeed to increase Torah with pure awe of Heaven, so that its study becomes a true elixir of life.

Regarding what you wrote about the tefillin boxes measuring two fingers by two fingers: see Sefer Shiurei Torah by Rabbi Naeh z"l; it is known that our custom follows this measurement, as also mentioned in Tanya, Iggeres HaKodesh section 10 (page 115a).

Concerning learning Mishnayos for a yahrzeit on Tisha B'Av: until midday, the study after prayer is in the chapters of Ta'anit and Mo'ed Katan as is customary. After midday, we follow the usual practice—that is, one who studies this throughout the year continues even on Tisha B'Av; see Hayom Yom for this day.

Regarding visiting the cemetery: although it is mentioned in halachic works, I did not see my revered father-in-law, the Rebbe zatzal sheyichyeh ad meah ve'esrim shanah amen (may he live long), do so. Perhaps one reason is that immersion in a mikveh beforehand is not possible on this day. Similarly, I found this explained in Nimukei Orach Chaim 559 by the Rebbe of Munkatch. As for what you wrote about some going only outside [the cemetery], even in this manner I did not see my revered father-in-law act so. This too can be explained based on what is written elsewhere: even looking at or seeing a cemetery creates some connection; therefore, this too may be linked to the lack of immersion mentioned above...

Blessings and regards to all your friends.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches us to focus our energy on our core educational mission and not be discouraged by opposition or distractions. He also provides practical guidance regarding halachic customs and maintaining proper priorities in our service of Hashem.