ב"ה, א' שבט, תשי"ח
ברוקלין.
הוו"ח אי"א נו"נ וכו' מוה' שלמה שי'[1]
שלום וברכה!
לאחר שתיקתו הארוכה, (וכנראה ממה שכותב במכתבו שנתקבל ז"ע מפני סיבות משונות, כי גם במכתבו זה אין סיבה מספיקה) מאשר הנני קבלת המכתב עם הפ"נ שיקרא בעת רצון על הציון הק' של כ"ק מו"ח אדמו"ר זצוקללה"ה נבג"מ זי"ע,
וזכות דבורו דברי התעוררות בהתועדויות אודותן כותב תעמוד לו ולכל ב"ב שיחיו לכאו"א בהמצטרך לו בגשמיות וברוחניות גם יחד, ובודאי לא יסתפק בהאמור אלא יוסיף מאמצים בהפצת המעינות חוצה, שפשוט שהכוונה בזה באופן ע"ד מרז"ל גדול תלמוד שמביא לידי מעשה, וכידוע דרישת רבותינו נשיאינו שמכל ענין בחסידות צ"ל בכן, וכיון שדורשים זה בודאי שניתן היכולת והכחות האפשרים למלאות הדרישה במילואה ולא זו בלבד אלא שברור ג"כ שאוכלים פירות עבודה זו גם בעולם הזה ובעניני עולם הזה, שהרי זהו ענין של צדקה וגמ"ח כי מביאים את המתועדים ואת השומעים והמקבלים לחיי עולם עולם הזה וחיי עולם הבא גם יחד, ואחכה לבשו"ט בכל האמור.
בברכת הצלחה בכל האמור ולבשו"ט מתוך הרחבת הדעת אמיתית.
נ.ב.
בטח אף שלא אישרו עד עתה, נתקבל מכתבי - בעתו - לזוגתו שתליט"א.
A Call to Action: From the Study Hall to the Streets
Source: Igros Kodesh, Vol. 16, Letter #6,029
Date: 1 Shevat 5718 (January 22, 1958)
Recipient: Reb Shlomo Rosenfeld, Bnei Brak
Introduction: Breaking the Silence
The Rebbe opens the letter by addressing a prolonged silence on the part of Reb Shlomo. Although Reb Shlomo had recently written to explain the lapse in correspondence, the Rebbe remarks— with fatherly firmness and characteristic warmth—that the reasons offered do not fully justify such a lengthy interruption. The Rebbe emphasizes that the bond between a chassid and his Rebbe must remain constant, alive, and ongoing.
The Spiritual Request (Pidyon Nefesh)
The Rebbe acknowledges receipt of Reb Shlomo’s letter, which included a pidyon nefesh—a personal spiritual petition. He assures him that it will be brought to the holy tziyun of his father-in-law, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, to be read at an auspicious time. The Rebbe offers a heartfelt blessing that all the requests contained therein be fulfilled, bringing success and blessing—both spiritual and material—to Reb Shlomo and his entire family.
Words of Encouragement at the Farbrengen
Reb Shlomo had previously shared words of inspiration at a farbrengen. The Rebbe notes that the merit of speaking those words stands as a source of protection and blessing for him. Yet the Rebbe urges him onward: a chassid must never rest on past accomplishments. While the words spoken were meaningful, the Rebbe encourages him to expand his efforts in hafatzat hamayanot—spreading the wellsprings of Chassidus outward.
The True Purpose: Study That Leads to Action
A central theme of the letter is the Chassidic axiom that “the greatness of study lies in that it leads to action.” The Rebbe explains that the study of Chassidus is not meant to remain an abstract intellectual pursuit. Its true purpose is realized only when it produces tangible results—real change in conduct and a practical impact on others.
The Rebbe adds that since this is what is demanded of us, we are surely granted the Divine strength and vitality to fulfill it. Each person is endowed with the capacity to teach and influence others in a way that leads to meaningful action.
Kindness with Eternal Benefit
The Rebbe beautifully reframes Reb Shlomo’s outreach as gemilut chasadim—acts of loving-kindness. By encouraging others in their service of Hashem and drawing them closer to the wellsprings of Chassidus, he is performing the highest form of kindness: granting another person a share in eternal life.
The Rebbe cites the Mishnah’s teaching that one “enjoys the fruits of such deeds in this world, while the principal remains for the World to Come.” Accordingly, the blessings resulting from this work will be evident both in tangible, worldly success and in everlasting spiritual reward.
Postscript: A Family Connection
In a brief postscript, the Rebbe notes that a separate letter was sent to Reb Shlomo’s wife, conveying blessings to her as well. This closing detail highlights the Rebbe’s encompassing concern for the entire family, ensuring that both husband and wife are supported and uplifted in their spiritual journey.
Summary of Blessings
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For the fulfillment of the spiritual petitions submitted
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For the strength to translate Chassidic study into practical action
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For revealed success in all material and spiritual matters
- 1 רוזנפלד, בני ברק.
B"H, 1 Shevat, 5718. Brooklyn.
Harav vavac"h iy"a nu"n etc. Shlomo Rozenfeld
Shalom u'Vrachah!
After your long silence (and apparently from what you write in your letter that was received, it was due to various reasons, though even in this letter there is not sufficient reason), I hereby acknowledge receipt of your letter with the pidyon nefesh which will be read at an auspicious time at the holy resting place of my father-in-law, the Rebbe zatzal. The merit of your words of inspiration spoken at the farbrengens you mention will stand for you and all your family members for whatever is needed both materially and spiritually together. Certainly you will not be satisfied with what has been said but will increase efforts in spreading the wellsprings outward. It is obvious that this must be done in the manner our Sages said: "Great is study for it brings to action," and as is known from the demand of our Rebbeim that every matter in Chassidus must be so. And since this is demanded, certainly the ability and possible strengths are given to fulfill this demand fully—and not only that, but it is also clear that one enjoys the fruits of this work even in this world and in matters of this world as well. For this is an act of tzedakah and gemilut chasadim because it brings those who participate and those who hear and receive closer to eternal life—life in this world and life in the World to Come together. I await good news regarding all the above.
With blessings for success in all the above and for good news with true broad-mindedness.
P.S. Surely, even though it has not yet been confirmed until now, my letter—sent at its proper time—to your wife may she live a long and good life—has been received.
Summary
The Rebbe teaches that Chassidus must lead from learning to action—spreading its teachings outward with confidence that G‑d grants us strength for success. Acts of spiritual outreach are true kindnesses whose rewards are felt both materially and spiritually.