Study That Leads to Action

Holy Letters of the Rebbe, Volume 17, Letter 6,200. Baruch Hashem, the first day of Rosh Chodesh Iyar—which is essentially the 30th of Nissan—5718, Brooklyn. Shalom u’Vracha.

It appears that this letter, together with the following one, was written to students who had become close to Chabad. They had encountered individuals who introduced them to Chabad teachings and its way of life. The Rebbe writes two very similar letters: the opening is nearly identical, and then each letter develops in its own way.

The Rebbe begins: “Shalom u’Vracha. I hereby confirm receipt of your letter.” He notes that the letter was delayed significantly, more than usual, before reaching him. It seems the Rebbe wanted people to know that their letters were important to him and were never taken lightly. If there was a delay in response, it was because the letter itself had been delayed in arriving.

The student had written to the Rebbe about his studies up until now, and about how he had met members of the Chabad community who introduced him to its teachings and various ideals. Through them, he had begun to draw closer and become acquainted with Chabad.

The Rebbe writes that since our sages of blessed memory taught that “great is study, for it leads to action,” it is therefore his sincere and strong hope that this acquaintance with Chassidus—and certainly this means that the student had already learned something of the teachings of Chabad—should lead to practical results.

That means the learning of Chassidus should not remain theoretical. It should bring about increased devotion, diligence, and dedication in the study of our holy Torah, both Nigleh and Chassidus. It should also lead to greater care in the fulfillment of mitzvos, improvement of character traits, and influence upon friends in these matters.

The Rebbe is presenting the complete picture. Study is not an end in itself. True learning brings a person to stronger action, deeper Torah study in both its revealed and inner dimensions, better observance of mitzvos, refined character, and positive influence on others.

The Rebbe then adds that nothing can stand in the way of the will, especially in the case of a young man of this age, who does not yet carry the burdens of earning a livelihood and is not yet occupied with the worries of parnassah. Since he is able to devote his full time and full energy to Torah study, the Rebbe urges him to take advantage of this special stage in life.

The Rebbe concludes with a blessing that he should share good news regarding all of the above. He blesses him for Torah study with yiras Shamayim, for proper fulfillment of mitzvos in a complete manner, and for good tidings. The letter is signed in the Rebbe’s name by the Rebbe’s secretary.

In essence, the student had written that he had become familiar with Chabad and was interested in learning more. The Rebbe responds that this should not remain merely an interest or acquaintance. It should affect his conduct in practice, helping him improve in learning, mitzvos, character, and influence upon others.

In a note, the student had also asked about his older brother, who was not so religious, and how he could influence him. The Rebbe answers that practical experience shows that the most effective form of influence is through personal example—by becoming a living model of how a Jewish person should conduct himself.

The Rebbe explains this very simply: if you yourself are careful in your daily conduct, ensuring that it aligns with the guidance of our holy Torah, which is a Torah of life, that itself will be the greatest and most effective influence upon your brother.

In other words, the student is asking what he should do for his brother. The Rebbe tells him that the strongest influence will come from the way he himself lives. If he behaves in a manner fully consistent with Torah values, he will become a living example and role model for his brother.

The Rebbe adds that beyond this, it would also be beneficial if the brother’s own friends and acquaintances—those of his age or perhaps older—would help guide him in the proper direction, toward Torah and mitzvos.

The student had also written about his future plans—how he intended to establish himself after completing his studies. The Rebbe answers that it is too early to concern himself with this. Since the student himself writes that there are still two years remaining, it is not worthwhile to burden himself now with such thoughts.

Especially in our times, the Rebbe says, so many things can change in two years. Major and important matters shift rapidly, and it is impossible to know now what circumstances will be later.

Therefore, the Rebbe advises him not to occupy himself with these concerns at present. He should focus on his studies, complete them properly, and when the appropriate time comes, he will then know how to proceed.

So here we see a student becoming closer to Chabad, and the Rebbe encourages him that the Torah and Chassidus he is learning should lead to growth in every area of life. As for influencing his brother, the Rebbe teaches that the most powerful method is personal example. And regarding the future, the Rebbe tells him not to worry now. He still has time, and much can change before then.