5786 —עמידה ללימוד חסידות והתמודדות עם התנגדות

B"H, 7 Tishrei, 5718.

Brooklyn.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

In response to your letter in which you write about the incident with the Rav... shiyichyeh, who spoke sharply regarding the study of the inner dimension of Torah, etc. It would be proper to compile statements from Rav Chaim Vital (in his introduction to Shaar HaHakdamot, also printed in Etz Chaim, Warsaw edition, and as an addition to the kuntres Etz Chaim by my revered father-in-law, as well as from my revered father-in-law the Rebbe Maharashab in the aforementioned kuntres), and to add the well-known passage from the holy Baal Shem Tov's letter: "When your wellsprings will spread outward, then Mashiach will come." If he also has the advantage of being from among those considered 'worldly,' you can include words from the Gra that redemption depends on this. Send him these sources with a request that he do one of two things: either state that he disagrees with these authorities and says the opposite of their opinion, or else retract his public statements and announce publicly that he is withdrawing them, just as he publicized his contrary words. Even if this does not achieve all that was stated above, it will certainly serve as a shield regarding future occurrences.

Certainly you are preparing a plan to utilize the upcoming auspicious days in the broadest manner possible. May it be G‑d's will that it be successful.

With blessings for inscription and sealing for good and a good and sweet year.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches us to respond to opposition against Chassidus by presenting authoritative sources and respectfully requesting public clarification or retraction. Proactive preparation for spiritual opportunities brings blessing and success.