5607 —י"ב תמוז, כוח נגד התנגדות, ושמירת שבת

B"H, 13 Tammuz, 5717.

Brooklyn.

Haraha"ch iy"a nu"n oseik b'tzt"z Yosef Menachem Weinstock

Shalom u'Vrachah!

In response to your letter from the sixth of Tammuz, which was received on the bright day of Yud-Beis Tammuz—the day of redemption of my revered father-in-law, the Rebbe zatzal—who was imprisoned for self-sacrifice for Torah and its mitzvos. Indeed, he stood up against a mighty empire and witnessed open miracles—even an evil angel answered Amen. As is known regarding these matters (though for various reasons not all details are yet publicized), as discussed at the farbrengen.

Since nothing in the world happens in vain, the fact that these reports have reached us is itself a directive in our service: not to be affected at all by the environment and its opposition (even if one would say it is only imagined), but to walk on the royal path—the path of the King of the world. Not only does one fulfill the Creator's command in this manner, but ultimately one also sees success despite opposition—and in most cases it becomes clear that the opposition is not real but only imagined.

I was pleased to see your esteemed father Haraha"g etc. shlita at the farbrengen for the festival of redemption. May it be G‑d's will that you and your entire family experience redemption from all things that disturb Torah study and enjoy peace of mind and ample opportunity to fulfill His mitzvos with joy and gladness of heart...

Regarding what you wrote about ships traveling on Shabbos: it would be worthwhile to ask your friend Haraha"ch etc. Ra'az Slonim to show you his copy of my letter describing ship departures in our times. From there you will see how grave this matter is and how deep is the darkness of exile—that despite it being a clear prohibition with no room for doubt, people turn a blind eye, etc., as I wrote to someone that never before has it happened that those who are careful in G‑d's word should stumble so publicly in a mitzvah equal to all others—and specifically in public and specifically under the name 'Klal Yisrael.' Moreover, they dress this up as 'love for Eretz Yisrael,' etc., etc. It is painful even to elaborate on such a distressing matter.

Blessings for good news regarding all matters mentioned in your letter—and obviously you are included as well—and with blessings for Chag HaGeulah.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that steadfastness against opposition—especially regarding Torah observance like Shabbos—draws strength from Yud-Beis Tammuz’s message: miracles come when we stand firm with joy despite challenges or societal pressures.