6103 - Transforming the Secular into Holiness

The Power of Transformation: Turning the "Secular" into Holy (Igros Kodesh, Vol. 16, Letter 6,103)

Introduction

Written on the 8th of Adar, 5718, this warm letter is addressed to Lipman Shapiro, a cousin of the Rebbe's mother who was active in Tzeirei Agudas Chabad in Cleveland. The letter captures the joyful energy of the month of Adar, focusing on the Chassidic concept of V’nahafoch Hu—the miraculous "turning around" of circumstances from darkness to light.

The Segulah of Adar: Everything Can Turn Around

The Rebbe begins by acknowledging the "headlines" of activities reported by the youth of Agudas Chabad in Cleveland. He points out that we are currently in the month of Adar, a time of Segulah (special spiritual power).

Just as in the Megillah, where the decree against the Jews was completely overturned—V’nahafoch Hu—the Rebbe suggests that this power of transformation is available to us in every generation. Whether it is a physical threat from enemies or a spiritual obstacle, Adar provides the strength to see a complete reversal of fortune where the "threat" is transformed into a source of victory and celebration.

From "Nations of the World" to "Yehudi"

Drawing on a verse from the Megillah stating that "many of the nations of the land converted to Judaism" (rabbim m’amei ha'aretz mis-yahadim), the Rebbe offers a profound Chassidic interpretation.

Citing the Likkutei Torah, the Rebbe explains that this doesn't only refer to people; it refers to matters and sparks. In our daily lives, there are "non-Jewish matters"—secular activities, mundane objects, or unrefined character traits. The mission of a Jew is to refine these areas so they become "Jewish," meaning they are elevated and utilized for holiness. As the Sages say, "Anyone who denies idol worship is called a Yehudi." When we take a secular area of life and redirect it toward Hashem, we are performing a literal act of transformation.

Expansion in a "Wide Way"

The Rebbe concludes with a blessing that this work of spreading Yiddishkeit and transforming the world should be done in a "wide way"—not just spiritually, but with physical abundance as well. He emphasizes that the news of these activities should not just remain consistent but should follow the principle of increasing and growing for many years to come.

Summary of Key Lessons

• Harness the Time: Utilize the unique energy of Adar to push for breakthroughs. It is a month where the natural order is more easily overturned for the good.

• The Mission of Refinement: Look at the "secular" parts of your day—your work, your hobbies, your environment—as opportunities for Mis-yahadim (becoming Jewish/holy).

• True Identity: Being a "Yehudi" is defined by your actions and your rejection of everything that contradicts Divine will. By doing the right thing, you "convert" that moment into a holy one.

• Report the Good: It is important to share "headlines" of successful activities. Sharing good news encourages others and creates a vessel for even more blessings.

• Physical and Spiritual Success: Chassidus doesn't separate the two. The Rebbe’s blessing is for growth to be experienced both in one's spiritual mission and in their physical needs "in a wide way."