4269 —עידוד גידול הישיבה והרחבת חינוך התורה באוסטרליה

B"H, 29 Nissan, 5716.

Brooklyn.

Haraha"ch iy"a nu"n oseik b'tzt"z Yehoshua Shneor Zalman Serbranski

Shalom u'Vrachah!

Your letter from the end of Adar was received in due time, and last week I also received a detailed report through your son-in-law, the vavac"h etc. Mr. Wirdiger. The great value of what you have merited to accomplish in your place cannot be estimated or adequately expressed. I hope that our people there also see this—not just as a superficial observation but as described in Chassidus: a strong contemplation that usually brings about an inner movement, a desire and willingness to increase these matters as much as possible and to the best of one's ability. The success in attracting a large number of students is sufficient proof of all the above and is beyond any doubt.

Regarding what you wrote about the limited time devoted to Torah studies: surely there are also subjects in the curriculum called secular studies that can be filled with holy content. For example, history should be studied from Tanach (Yehoshua, Shoftim, Shmuel, Divrei HaYamim, etc.). However, it is understood that this alone is not enough. Therefore, your idea to approach the Ministry of Education is very correct—especially considering the unique nature of your yeshiva in the entire country where proper Torah and mitzvah education takes place; since there is no other yeshiva like it, it is necessary that even in the lower grades (which serve as preparation for higher ones) there should be an increase in Torah studies.

Certainly you will find acquaintances (bekanntschaft) at the Ministry who can help ensure your request is presented most effectively—and most importantly—that your request will be fulfilled. Especially since in Australia religious matters are also under government jurisdiction (unlike the United States), so the government bears responsibility for providing what is needed here—particularly regarding study hours. It is very likely that letters from rabbis will help with all this.

It is understood that publicizing this effort is not always desirable; it may be better not to frighten some parents into thinking that management's intention is to completely eliminate secular studies—and I rely on your understanding.

It goes without saying that canceling Talmud Torah for those who come after school hours has no basis at all—especially since undoubtedly some of them will eventually start learning at yeshiva even before noon.

Regarding your question about management in general and especially financial matters: I believe I have already written several times that all technical matters should be delegated as much as possible to others; on the other hand, you should remain head and supervisor over all matters involving responsibility. In order for supervision and management to be comprehensive and proper, it is best not to distract yourself with technical issues—including even teaching a class you mention—and certainly not bookkeeping or writing receipts. Since they will respect your authority, it does not have to be done specifically by our people but by someone who will follow your instructions...

In your question whether it is possible to open a girls' division of the yeshiva at that house: certainly things should be arranged so there will be no concern that this division leaves your authority—then it is appropriate.

I was pleased by what you wrote about hiring a teacher for girls etc., and regarding whether to include this under yeshiva activities or inform supporters etc.—this should be considered according to their mood; although generally it is correct that things should reflect reality—that this too is among our people's activities—but care must be taken not to alarm them about extraordinary expenses. In general, nowadays it makes an excellent impression when G‑d-fearing people are seen striving for girls' education too.

Regarding Nshei Chabad's involvement: this too is correct and may add further momentum to Chabad activities overall—thus drawing more women closer than ever before.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that visible success in growing Torah institutions inspires others and justifies further expansion. He stresses filling even secular subjects with holiness where possible, wise advocacy with authorities, delegating technical tasks while retaining oversight, and including girls' education within communal efforts.