6099 - Queen Esther as a Model for Communal Leadership

Empowering the Foundation: Queen Esther as a Model for Oholei Torah (Volume 16, Letter 6,099)

Introduction In this encouraging letter from the 7th of Adar, 5718, the Rebbe writes to the Ladies Auxiliary of Oholei Torah. Having just received news of a successful Purim event, the Rebbe connects their modern-day communal activism to the timeless role of Jewish women in history, particularly Queen Esther. The tone is one of deep appreciation for their dedication to Chinuch Al Taharas HaKodesh (education on the foundations of holiness).

Success as a Catalyst for Growth

The Rebbe expresses great satisfaction with the "Veranstaltung" (event) the Auxiliary recently held for Purim. However, he reminds the women that success is not just a destination but a springboard. He urges that this victory should serve as a "living example" to inspire even greater efforts to expand and strengthen the institution. For a school like Oholei Torah, which famously prioritized a purely sacred curriculum, the support of the Ladies Auxiliary was—and remains—the backbone of its growth.

The Measure-for-Measure Reward

To inspire continued dedication, the Rebbe references the "holy books" which articulate the immense reward for those involved in sacred education. He emphasizes that this reward is not just for the individual activist but extends to their entire families. By looking after the "children of the community," the Rebbe suggests that Hashem, in turn, provides special blessings for the activist's own home and children.

Esther HaMalka: Responsibility and Potential

Since the letter was written during the month of Adar, the Rebbe draws a direct parallel to the miracle of Purim. He points out that the salvation of the Jewish people was brought about through the Mesiras Nefesh (self-sacrifice) of a single Jewish woman: Queen Esther.

The Rebbe gives a profound charge to the Jewish women of today:

1. Recognize Potential: Understand the immense spiritual power a woman possesses to change the course of history.

2. Accept Responsibility: Great potential brings a "full measure" of responsibility.

Just as Esther recognized her unique position "for a time such as this," the women of the Auxiliary are encouraged to see their role in sustaining Oholei Torah as a vital mission for the survival of the Jewish people.

Summary of Key Lessons

• The Power of Jewish Women: Like Queen Esther, the Jewish woman has the unique capacity for self-sacrifice that can complete a miracle for the entire nation.

• Education is the Priority: Strengthening Chinuch Al Taharas HaKodesh (pure holy education) is described by the Rebbe as "most very important work."

• Momentum Matters: Use the success of a single event to widen and expand the scope of your communal influence.

• Family Blessings: Involvement in communal holy work draws down specific Divine protection and "Nachas" for one's own spouse and children.

• Potential Equals Responsibility: The more opportunities one is given to help, the greater the responsibility to act.