6064 —עבודת הנוער כזכות וכצנור של ברכה

B"H, 20 Shevat, 5718.

Brooklyn.

Havavac"h iy"a nu"n engaged in tzt"z with many accomplishments David Yitzchak Ginzburg

Shalom u'Vrachah!

I acknowledge receipt of your letter from the 9th of Shevat and those before and after it, in which you outline your holy work regarding the network and matters of Tzeirei Agudas Chassidei Chabad, etc. I was especially pleased to read about the youth gathering in Kfar Chabad, and I am sure more detailed reports will be received about this. May it be G‑d's will that the impression from these gatherings (and not just an impression but actual practical results) will continue in the days that follow. As I have written many times, such gatherings—even more internal farbrengens—are like plowing and sowing; obviously, further work is needed afterward so that the results grow properly and successfully, as is understood.

It seems from your letter that despite all my letters urging and encouraging from here, until now there has not been full recognition that matters of Tzeirei Agudas Chassidei Chabad are not a burden or obligation on its members but rather a privilege. Moreover, it is also the channel and vessel for both spiritual sustenance and material livelihood—and by livelihood here I mean all human needs: food, clothing, home, children, life, and abundant sustenance. It is indeed surprising how this truth is not recognized when it is already clearly explained in many maamarim of Chassidus, sichos, etc. As the saying goes: "On an action one does not ask questions," especially when Dorin Marka is in the middle. But this very knowledge should lessen concealment and hiding; on the contrary—it should transform darkness into light as explained at the end of Iggeres HaKodesh section 25 on the verse "Asher shalat ha'adam ba'adam lera lo" (that man rules over man to his detriment), meaning that through this itself one is aroused to pray with greater intent from deep within the heart. And indeed, the purpose of all Torah and mitzvah—even "b'chol derachecha da'eihu" (in all your ways know Him)—is prayer: connection and unity with Hashem.

May it be G‑d's will that you find illuminating words to explain this matter to yourself as well as to your fellow members—and within ever-expanding circles—for ultimately this point is a pillar and foundation for easing service in serving Hashem.

Regarding giving maaser (a tenth) to charity: it is somewhat surprising to ask about this since it is a matter stated in Shulchan Aruch—especially among chassidim. On the contrary: if—as you write—they are still struggling with their salary until now, then there is even more reason for advice based on our Sages' counsel: "Salt for wealth is its reduction," not the opposite G‑d forbid.

Regarding using content from my letter about the first candle of Chanukah also for fundraising purposes—it is surprising there should be any doubt since it explicitly discusses this there; see there. The concern that this might lessen people's seriousness about enlisting for actual teaching: those who wish to use it for such purposes do not need anyone's notification regarding its content since it is a general letter—anyone interested for whatever reason can become aware of it.

Regarding requests for more detailed instructions concerning work with Tzeirei Agudas Chassidei Chabad—it is surprising what more detail could be needed after so many letters have been received. True, these letters did not specify that one person should deal with this detail or another with another detail because this must come through personal initiative so that involvement will endure—as is known: accepting authority (kabalas ol) is fundamental but one cannot serve long-term solely through accepting authority; there must also be pleasure and satisfaction involved...

Those who clearly have no talent in this area should enlist to strengthen and establish educational institutions—purely holy ones.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that youth work brings both spiritual and material blessing when approached as a privilege rather than a burden. He stresses clarity of purpose, giving charity even when means are limited, sharing inspiration broadly, and strengthening education where one's talents best fit.