5951 —חנוכה, נרות להאיר, וקריאה לחינוך תורה

B"H, First Night of Chanukah, 5718.

Brooklyn, NY.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

On this Festival of Lights, it is certainly unnecessary to elaborate on the meaning that our Rebbeim called their students—students of Tomchei Temimim—by the name "Neros Leha'ir" (lights to illuminate), as explained at length elsewhere. The point is that each person must also illuminate their surroundings with Ner Mitzvah Torah Or (the candle of mitzvah is Torah light) and the luminary within Torah. Naming something reveals and draws from its root and source into practical matters. As explained in many places in Chassidus, naming connects the soul with the body, etc.

Accordingly,^[1] we can also explain the debate about whether Adam named even the fish, since they are creatures from Alma D'iskasya (the concealed world), which is contrary to revelation. However, Alma D'iskasya compared to a higher world is also considered revelation; this is why some say even fish were named. See Tosafos Chullin 66b, Chizkuni and Radak to Bereishis 2:19, Midrash Chaser Veyater and more.

Even though this title was given to students of Temimim, it is understood that their students' students also bear this title—for this is the goal of good education: that students become like their teacher. Especially since Tomchei Temimim was exiled from its original place in Lubavitch—the title and mission of "lights to illuminate" must be fulfilled wherever any of them are found—and certainly where several are together with their children and grandchildren.

The task to illuminate has many forms—some primary, some secondary, some only in pressing circumstances. But the main straightforward way is through education—effort in proper education with one's body, money, and soul—as explained regarding tzedakah and gemilus chassadim (acts of kindness), which includes education.

This role is especially important now and in places where every moment in education is precious because there is an opportunity to uplift many sons and daughters of Israel—and neglecting this endangers their future.

It goes without saying that in Eretz HaKodesh (the Holy Land), which will be rebuilt by Moshiach Tzidkeinu (our righteous redeemer), this situation is especially strong now because many immigrants arrive with their families; how they settle—in general matters and especially in education—during their first period determines their entire future.

Accordingly, my call and request to all Anash (our people), especially youth: each should examine if they are capable of working in educating Jewish boys and girls. Since a person may err about himself, he should consult experts on this matter.

Those who have talent should strive as needed to arrange things so they can personally engage in education—as teachers or principals or similar roles. Certainly one needs knowledge in several fields; many already have much knowledge and only need completion; some already have full knowledge; others can quickly acquire what’s needed while working. The work itself teaches one how to improve.

Those who clearly lack talent for this must enlist to strengthen educational institutions based on holiness. The main point here is influencing parents: if they truly want happiness for their children—not just spiritually but materially—they must educate them purely according to our tradition. Every effort here is worthwhile since it affects all their children's future.

The conclusion from all above: anyone who thinks he or she can be a teacher—I ask you immediately seek ways to use your talents for this field as much as possible; it’s an urgent need now.

May these days of Chanukah—which add increasing light outside one's home—also increase "lights to illuminate," so those already shining will shine further outwards as it says "Yafutzu Maayanosecha Chutzah" (your wellsprings will spread outward). Those not yet illuminating should raise their flame until it rises by itself—as described at the end of chapter 9 in Igeres HaTeshuvah—that it be double strength to make up for lost years when strengths were not used properly.

Since our Sages said about "Maggid Devarav L’Yaakov..." (He tells His words to Yaakov...) that what He commands Israel He does Himself—may Hashem fulfill "Veshinantam Levanecha" (you shall teach them diligently to your children), giving Jewish boys and girls wisdom, understanding, knowledge—in general matters and particulars—and may they illuminate all around them with Ner Mitzvah Torah Or and the luminary within Torah—with expansiveness, joy, and gladness of heart.

I await good news regarding all above and conclude with abundant blessings for great success for all participants as mentioned above—them and all their families—may they stand blessed both materially and spiritually together.

Summary

The Rebbe urges everyone—especially youth—to take responsibility for Jewish education as a primary way of spreading light during Chanukah. Each person should assess how best they can contribute personally or by supporting institutions so every child receives pure Torah education.