4572 —המעשה עיקר יותר מהלימוד, לעורר אחרים, והדרכה בעניני בריאות

B"H, 29 Tammuz, 5716. Brooklyn.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

In response to your letter from the 16th of Tammuz. Thank you for writing about the farbrengen during the recent auspicious days, although you were brief relative to the importance of these matters (and surely you will elaborate next time).

My strong hope is that in line with the teaching of the Mishnah: "Not study but action is primary," which implies that study is great but action is even more essential, each person according to their position and situation should strive to bring about immediate positive change in deed, speech, and even thought among the participants and those influenced by them in the days following.

May it be G‑d's will that this be with outstanding success. And just as you bring good news about the farbrengen—may Hashem grant you to share good news in this as well.

Based on the above, my wonder at the beginning of your letter is also understood: your heart has begun to burn with a desire to learn and yet you delay—even though the Creator and Ruler of the world commands daily Torah study in all its parts, as known from Hilchos Talmud Torah by our master the Alter Rebbe, author of Tanya and Shulchan Aruch, chapter 1. Paragraphs 4 and 10. Even more so based on our Sages (Eruvin 64a): "Whoever says this teaching is pleasant and this teaching is not pleasant" (even if he admits it is still a teaching but not pleasant for him—understood). And in the words of Tanya Kadisha (beginning of chapter 41): "Hashem stands over him and observes him and examines his mind and heart if he serves Him properly." Lengthy discussion here is unnecessary.

Surely you will inform me in your reply—perhaps you were not precise in your previous letter and did not mean it literally. Or at least you have corrected these matters immediately with regret and teshuvah for the past; if previously you would read one page (except where correcting past neglect requires more), now read two pages etc.—see Iggeres HaTeshuvah end of chapter 9. It is understood that all this applies not only to yourself but also to all those influenced by you. It is already known that "VeAhavta L'Reiacha Kamocha" (You shall love your fellow as yourself) is a great principle in Torah. I await good news about this as well.

As per your request, all those whom you wrote about will be mentioned at the holy resting place of my revered father-in-law, the Rebbe zatzal.

Surely you keep the three well-known daily study portions: Chumash, Tehillim, and Tanya.

Blessings,
In the name of my revered father-in-law, may he live,
A. Kvint
Secretary

Your letter from the 24th of Tammuz has been received.

Regarding your question about your health—stop thinking about it entirely. Instead, consult a doctor and follow his instructions regarding your daily routine etc., without occupying your thoughts with this matter.

Similarly regarding what you wrote about your sister—she too should consult a doctor. Our Sages said that Torah gives permission to a doctor to heal. In every matter our Sages said there must be a natural means. May "the Healer of all flesh" send their healing.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that while Torah study is vital, practical action takes precedence; we must inspire others toward positive change as well. For health concerns, one should act responsibly by consulting doctors rather than worrying excessively or relying solely on thought.