3773 —שינוי מנהג הקהילה ומנהגי תפילין ספרדיים

B"H, 14 Elul, 5715.

Brooklyn.

Havavac"h iy"a nu"n his work is the work of Heaven Tzvi Leib HaLevi

Shalom u'Vrachah!

In response to your letter from 4 Elul ... regarding what you wrote about the number of lines in tefillin and the Sephardic custom in this matter. In every country’s customs there are two types: a custom that is precisely fixed in a certain way, or a situation where the custom is the absence of a custom—meaning everyone does as they wish and there is no set practice. It is understood that with the first type one should let them follow their ancestral custom, and only if there is an initiative from their side should one consult each time how and what to do. But regarding the second type, it is proper—pleasantly and peacefully—to establish the accepted custom among us since for them too there is no contradiction in this, and so it is with the number of lines as you write.

Regarding what you wrote about your conduct on the second day of Yom Tov: since you and your entire family are abroad (outside Eretz Yisrael), I do not see any reason for doubt; you should celebrate the upcoming festivals on both the first and second days.

I was pleased by what you wrote that your studies are progressing and that you strive to influence the students even in areas that are not directly your subject with them; after all, ultimately all matters have one purpose—which is accepting upon oneself the complete yoke of Heaven’s sovereignty, especially as explained that all mitzvos are included within each other.

Enclosed is Likkut Elul, which will surely merit to benefit many through its content—and the merit of the many depends on him.

With blessings for success in your holy work and for being inscribed and sealed for good.

* Regarding what you write that they are not particular about this and most—in their tefillin shel yad—have six lines: this contradicts what is written by the author Sifrei Lamed Hei (and no one disagrees), at least ideally ^[3], and those who follow Kabbalah were stringent about this according to Arizal’s practice, as well as according to Sephardic custom as is known. Perhaps an erroneous custom occurred. If so, it is obvious that seven lines should be established—as above.

Summary

The Rebbe distinguishes between fixed customs and lack thereof, advising not to change established traditions lightly but to guide communities gently when no set practice exists. He emphasizes maintaining proper halachic standards in tefillin according to tradition.