5579 —ליקויים, חסידות, וצמיחה אישית

B"H, 5th of Tammuz, 5717.

Brooklyn.

Havavac"h iy"a nu"n etc. Yitzchak Weil

Shalom u'Vrachah!

After a long break I received your letter from the 27th of Sivan, and regarding your questions:

a) Whether one recites a blessing on a lunar or solar eclipse. It is known that we do not introduce a blessing that is not mentioned in the Talmud (Beit Yosef Orach Chaim 216). The reason is that we do not bless over these phenomena because they are signs of impending misfortune (Sukkah 29a). On the contrary, they require prayer and outcry to avert them—not a blessing.

b) Whether the Sages were aware of eclipses and if these are natural phenomena. Eclipses are mentioned in several places in the words of our Sages; it is surprising to even question this. It is well known that even the scholars of Egypt and earlier in Babylon had already prepared eclipse tables as recorded in historical works and even referenced in sacred texts. The Jewish people were connected with the scholars of Egypt and Babylon. From these tables it is clear that such phenomena are natural occurrences. However, at the same time they also serve as signs—similar to the rainbow—which is now a natural phenomenon but also serves as a sign as explained at length. There is no contradiction here: solar and lunar eclipses have interpretations by our Sages (Sukkah 29a) when they are visible on earth (and apparent to those who understand how eclipses work). But if the sky is covered by clouds or similar conditions, then it does not serve as a sign or lesson for people on earth; this applies likewise to the rainbow as explained by Torah commentators.

c) What is the difference between those who follow Chassidus and those who do not—does it affect their worldview? Clearly it does; this can be seen tangibly. It would take too long to explain fully in a letter—especially since many books explain Chassidus and its concepts. See also Kuntres Limud HaChassidus by my father-in-law the Rebbe zatzal.

d) Regarding your question about making summaries for Tanya: you can find them at the beginning of Sefer Kitzuim v'He'arot l'Tanya by the tzt"z Rebbe. Of course this does not preclude making your own notes and summaries to help you remember what you learn in Tanya and review it when needed.

e) Studying for oneself versus spreading Judaism as much as possible: As I believe I have already written to you—there is no contradiction between personal study and teaching others; on the contrary, to influence others one must also learn for oneself. However, dividing time between these two pursuits varies from person to person. Since one is naturally subjective about oneself, it is necessary to consult with someone else who can judge objectively.

f) You wrote that communal living and its routines do not suit activities supporting Judaism etc.: As above, this depends on each person's nature; inherently there is no contradiction between communal living (when based on Torah and mitzvahs) and fulfilling one's role as a Jew in this world—as stated in Mishnah: "I was created to serve my Creator." I hope—even though you did not mention it explicitly—that you observe the three daily study portions established by my father-in-law the Rebbe zatzal: Chumash, Tehillim, Tanya—in addition to your set times for studying revealed Torah and Chassidus.

You will surely participate in celebrating Yud-Beis–Yud-Gimmel Tammuz—the Festival of Redemption—especially since this year marks thirty years since the first redemption; as discussed in Shabbat Mevarchim Tammuz regarding the significance of thirty years.

Blessings.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that natural phenomena like eclipses have both scientific explanations and spiritual lessons; personal growth through Torah study complements outreach efforts; living communally can support one's Jewish mission when rooted in Torah values.