Utilizing One’s Unique Talents to Spread Chassidus

In a letter dated the 13th of Nissan, 5718, the Menachem Mendel Schneerson writes to Yitzchak Shlomo Alfasai, acknowledging receipt of his letter as well as his book Hasaba HaKodesh and the publication Machanayim, which included articles about the Aliyah of Chassidim and the early settlement of Chabad in Eretz Yisroel.

The Rebbe expresses appreciation for sending these works and encourages him to continue sharing his publications, including contributing them to the central library for the benefit of the public. He then offers a blessing that the recipient should utilize the talents with which he has been endowed to spread the teachings of Chassidus and its ways of life to ever-expanding circles.

While emphasizing that the dissemination of Yiddishkeit in general is essential and serves as a foundation, the Rebbe highlights a crucial principle: when a mitzvah cannot be fulfilled by others, it takes precedence even over Torah study. Citing the teaching of the Sages (Moed Katan 9b), the Rebbe explains that although Torah study is of the highest value, a mitzvah that cannot be performed by others overrides it.

The Rebbe applies this principle to the spreading of Chassidus, noting that relatively few individuals possess the ability and expertise to communicate its teachings effectively. Therefore, one who has such talents carries a unique responsibility, and this mission takes precedence—even before general outreach—because it is a task that others cannot easily fulfill.

Additionally, the Rebbe explains that spreading Chassidus naturally leads to strengthening Yiddishkeit. It is impossible for a person to internalize Chassidic teachings without this ultimately transforming their conduct and lifestyle in accordance with Torah and mitzvos. Thus, the influence of Chassidus extends far beyond its immediate study, bringing about a broader elevation in observance.

The Rebbe concludes with a blessing for a kosher and joyous Pesach and for true redemption—both from physical worries and spiritual limitations—so that one can serve Hashem with joy and continue this sense of freedom throughout the entire year.

In a postscript, the Rebbe notes a correction in the recipient’s book regarding the passing of the Baal Shem Tov. Based on a talk of the Previous Rebbe, he clarifies that the passing occurred on the first day of Shavuos, which that year fell on a Wednesday, and not as stated otherwise. He also references an additional story cited in the book and its source in earlier teachings.

Summary:
The Rebbe teaches that one must prioritize using their unique talents where they are most needed. Since spreading Chassidus is a rare ability, it takes precedence and ultimately uplifts all of Yiddishkeit.

Hebrew Translation:

במכתב מיום י"ג ניסן תשי"ח, הרבי כותב לר׳ יצחק שלמה אלפסאי ומודה לו על ספרו "הסבא הקדוש" ועל החוברת "מחניים", שבה הופיעו מאמרים על עליית החסידים וחב״ד לארץ ישראל.

הרבי מברך אותו שינצל את כשרונותיו להפצת תורת החסידות והנהגותיה בחוגים הולכים ומתרחבים, ומעודד אותו להמשיך לשלוח את ספריו לטובת הרבים.

הרבי מדגיש שאף שהפצת יהדות בכלל היא יסוד חשוב, ישנה עדיפות למצווה שאי אפשר לעשותה על ידי אחרים. על פי דברי חז״ל (מועד קטן ט ע״ב), מצווה כזו דוחה אפילו תלמוד תורה. הפצת החסידות, שהיא מלאכה שרק מעטים מסוגלים לה, נחשבת למצווה מסוג זה, ולכן יש לה קדימות.

בנוסף, הרבי מבאר שלימוד החסידות מביא בהכרח לשינוי בפועל בחיי האדם ובהנהגתו, ומחזק את שמירת התורה והמצוות.

הרבי מסיים בברכה לחג פסח כשר ושמח ולגאולה אמיתית מכל דאגות גשמיות ורוחניות, כדי לעבוד את ה׳ בשמחה כל ימות השנה.

בפסקה נוספת הרבי מתקן פרט בספר לגבי הסתלקות הבעל שם טוב, ומבהיר שעל פי דברי הרבי הקודם היה זה ביום הראשון של שבועות שחל אז ביום רביעי.