Letter 6188 – Preserving a Share in the Holy Land

Letters of the Rebbe, Volume 17, Letter 6,188.

Boruch Hashem, 23rd of Nissan, 5718, Brooklyn.

Sholom U’vrocho.

The Rebbe writes that he is responding to the recipient’s letter from the third day of Chol HaMoed Pesach.

From the timing of the correspondence, it appears that during that particular Pesach no letters were written during Chol HaMoed, unlike in some other years when responses were occasionally sent even then. Now, on the 23rd of Nissan, which is Isru Chag, the day immediately following Pesach, the Rebbe is responding.

The recipient had written concerning the sale of a lot or parcel of land.

The Rebbe notes that our Sages expressed a negative attitude toward selling land in the Holy Land. Ownership of property in Eretz Yisrael carries special value, and one should not part with it lightly.

However, in this case, the sale was being considered for an important purpose: to provide for the needs of the recipient’s daughter and her dowry in preparation for marriage. For such a significant need, there is room for leniency.

Even so, the Rebbe advises that it would be proper to retain at least some portion of real estate — some permanent property — in the Holy Land. In other words, even if it is necessary to sell part of the property in order to help marry off the daughter, one should try not to divest oneself completely. It is important to preserve some personal share and connection in Eretz Yisrael.

The Rebbe then distinguishes between expenses directly connected to the wedding itself and expenses for traveling to the wedding.

If the funds are needed for the actual marriage arrangements, that is one matter. But if the sale is being made primarily to cover travel expenses to attend the wedding, then the matter requires more careful consideration, especially if the travel costs are substantial.

Rather than issuing a direct ruling, the Rebbe advises a practical path. He suggests that the recipient sit together with three friends and present the entire matter before them in detail. After hearing all the circumstances, they should consider the issue carefully.

The Rebbe adds a blessing that Hashem should grant them the proper idea and the correct guidance as to how to advise him.

This is a recurring approach found in many letters: at times, instead of deciding the matter personally, the Rebbe directs a person to consult trusted individuals who can weigh the practical realities and help determine the proper course of action.

The Rebbe concludes with a blessing.

In a postscript, the Rebbe writes that he is surprised the recipient made no mention of his positive activities before Pesach in spreading Yiddishkeit — especially concerning the campaign to distribute Shmurah Matzah.

It was well known how strongly the Rebbe encouraged involvement in making Shmurah Matzah available to others before Pesach. The Rebbe therefore expresses surprise that no report was included and adds that surely the recipient will fill this in on another occasion.

The letter leaves two clear messages: to value and preserve one’s connection to Eretz Yisrael, and to remain actively involved in helping others with Yiddishkeit, especially through practical mitzvah campaigns.