4711 —הדרכה לוועידה הארצית של צעירי אגודת ישראל באמריקה

B"H, 15 Elul, 5716.

Brooklyn, NY.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

In response to your invitation to participate in your annual conference, which will take place, G‑d willing, on the days of 17–19 Elul. May it be His will that the conference arouse its participants—and even those outside it—to fulfill their spiritual mission: instilling Torah study and mitzvah observance into daily life, especially among the younger generation who are still at the threshold of life.

The necessity for this activity is all the greater in our era—a time of crisis both globally and particularly within our people—a period that has led to utter disappointment with secular ideas and outlooks. As with every time of crisis, it is the youth who are most shaken; those not educated in Torah-true faith and religion stand confused, searching and groping for a path in life.

There is a special obligation—and at the same time a special privilege—for every member of the younger generation who stands in the light—the light of Torah and its radiance—to be a living example of a Jew living Jewishly both at home and beyond. Through this—and naturally also through direct action—one can influence one's entire environment and especially other young people to follow the correct path: the path of Torah and mitzvah.

Our Sages described signs of the era preceding Mashiach: "Youths will shame elders," etc. The words of our master, the Alter Rebbe (author of Tanya and Shulchan Aruch), regarding the rebukes in Parshas Bechukosai—as well as those in this week's parsha and all rebukes in Torah—are well known: Although these rebukes appear as curses, in truth they are only blessings (Likkutei Torah Bechukosai 48a).

May it be His will that the youths and young people among Bnei Yisrael in America not make peace even with those matters that are inconsistent with complete Torah—matters which their elders have ceased fighting against. Rather, even regarding these issues they should fight vigorously and loudly proclaim that our Torah is a Torah of truth; truth allows no compromise; it is eternal and governs every Jew's daily life everywhere and at all times.

We have been assured by the Creator and Leader of the world that with appropriate strength and necessary energy one ultimately prevails in this battle. May it be His will that this happen without concealment or delay—for every moment during these fateful times carries with it the destiny of many Jewish souls: whether they will declare loyalty to our Torah of life and its mitzvos or be swept away (G‑d forbid) by those who begin with compromise but end with total rejection of Israel's tradition.

Blessings for tangible activities to elevate Israel Saba by instilling Torah and mitzvah authority among ever-widening circles—and wishes for a good inscription and sealing for the new year.

Summary

The Rebbe urges Jewish youth leaders to inspire their peers through personal example and active outreach, emphasizing unwavering commitment to Torah values even amid societal challenges. Every effort can impact countless lives during critical times for our people.