3890 —חובת הקצין הדתי לקדם אוכל כשר ולהעיר זהות יהודית

B"H, 19 Iyar, 5716. Brooklyn.

The Avrech Shalom Leib, sheyichyeh

Shalom u'Vrachah!

In response to your letter, which is already with the military rabbinate, describing your position and that you are not stationed in one place but move around, etc.—certainly it is unnecessary to remind you of the great importance of ensuring that food is kosher according to halachah. Especially since, in addition to being one of the primary mitzvos, it is explained that non-kosher foods (G‑d forbid) dull the heart and mind, thereby diminishing a person's ability to absorb Torah and mitzvos—even those commandments that human intellect itself acknowledges. This is also alluded to in Tanya, beginning of chapter 8. Surely you can use this position to explain as well to those you meet the great importance of being careful with kosher food specifically.

With all this, it is also understood that one should not be satisfied with only the above-mentioned official duties; rather, you should take advantage of your contact with many Avrechim—perhaps you are the only one whose words they will accept regarding Judaism—and therefore you must awaken them about their roots as children of Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov. You should explain and clarify that regardless of their current status or situation until now, in a single moment they are obligated—and have the privilege—to be upright Jews in their daily lives in every sense of the word. Certainly you will find in Chassidic discourses and holy talks many ideas and expressions that will help you explain these matters.

We are already assured that Chassidim’s involvement in these matters is blessed with success—provided it fulfills our sages’ teaching: words that come from the heart enter the heart. May it be G‑d’s will that you do all this to your utmost ability; this will also increase G‑d’s blessing and your own success as an individual so that "from your own flesh you shall not hide" (Yeshayahu 58:7), going from strength to strength in Torah study and mitzvah observance with excellence.

Blessings and regards to your friends who wish to fulfill these things; then they will succeed in fulfilling the command of the Creator of the world—and "your camp shall be holy," for then "the L‑rd your G‑d walks among your camp..." (Devarim 23:15).

Summary

A chaplain must use his unique position not only to ensure kosher food but also to inspire fellow Jews about their heritage and daily observance. Sincere words from the heart can awaken Jewish identity and bring lasting spiritual success.