Stay Where You Are Needed Most

Holy Letters of the Rebbe – Volume 15, Letter 5436
Baruch Hashem, the 8th of Iyar, 5717 (1957).

The Rebbe writes in response to someone who was considering leaving the country where he lived. He explains that he is answering quickly because of the urgency of the matter, and states plainly that he does not understand the idea of leaving at all.

The Rebbe explains that Hashem has blessed the writer with special talents in the field of authentic Jewish education. In the country where he currently lives, there is a severe shortage of capable people working in that area. The lack is so great that its harmful effects can already be seen in the weakened state of Yiddishkeit there.

The Rebbe therefore cites the teaching of our sages: Aniyei ircha kodmim—the needs of your own city come first. A person’s first responsibility is to strengthen the community in which he already lives before looking elsewhere.

The Rebbe continues that, in his view, the writer has both the privilege and the responsibility to make every effort to find work in Jewish education in his present country. He should not leave, but rather remain where he is most needed.

The Rebbe notes that the writer did not explain what had changed, since his current plans were the opposite of what he had expressed previously. Still, the Rebbe says that whatever the reason may be does not alter the practical conclusion, because two facts remain true:

First, both he and his wife possess valuable talents in the area of proper Jewish education.

Second, the difficult spiritual condition of that country urgently demands more devoted educators.

The Rebbe then adds that perhaps financial concerns may be part of the reason, though he does not believe that is the main issue. Nevertheless, he emphasizes that one should trust in Hashem, who repays measure for measure. Those who dedicate themselves to bringing fellow Jews closer through authentic education will be blessed with all that they need, both spiritually and physically.

The Rebbe concludes with a blessing for good news.

The message of the letter is timeless and powerful: remain where your talents are needed, strengthen the community around you, and trust that when you devote yourself to the needs of others, Hashem will provide for your own needs as well.