ב"ה, ב' אייר, תשי"ח
ברוקלין
שלום וברכה!
...מהנכון הי' שיתייעצו ביניהם אם יש מקום להדפיס חוברת אשר תכלול הרצאות התלמידים דישיבת הערב בעת חלוקת התעודות, ואפשר רק תוכן הרצאות שלהם או נקודות כמובן בצירוף הנאומים (בשלימות או בקיצור) של הרבנים שנוכחו וכו' שהרי זה בודאי יביא עדוד לתלמידי ישיבת הערב, ויהווה מקום להוספה בקנאת סופרים וכו'.
לאידך גיסא יש להתחשב בהנימוק שלא להתגרות יותר מדי, ובסגנון ניט אויפרייסין די אויגין. ובהתבוננות כולם יחד בזה בטח יוכלו לשער איזה טענות מכריעות.
בברכת הצלחה בלימודו לעצמו תורת הנגלה ותורת החסידות ולהוספה בעבודת התפלה לתוספת הצלחה בהשפעתו על הזולת לראות פרי טוב במושפעיו טוב האמיתי וביחד עם זה גם טוב נראה ונגלה.
בברכה לבשו"ט בכהנ"ל.
In this thoughtful letter, the Rebbe responds to Rabbi Naftali Rot regarding the growth and development of the Yeshivas Erev program in Jerusalem.
The Rebbe suggests that it may be worthwhile for the organizers to discuss whether they should publish a booklet in connection with the distribution of diplomas. This booklet could include selections from the lectures, talks, or Torah presentations delivered by the students of the evening yeshivah. If publishing the full material would be difficult, perhaps summaries, outlines, or key points could be printed instead.
The Rebbe further recommends including, in full or in abbreviated form, remarks delivered by the rabbis and distinguished guests who attended the event. Such a publication would give honor to the occasion and create a lasting source of inspiration.
The Power of Encouragement
The Rebbe explains that printing the students’ work would certainly strengthen and encourage the participants. When people see their efforts valued and recognized, they become more motivated to continue learning and growing.
He adds that this can also awaken the positive force described by our sages as “Kinas Sofrim tarbeh chochmah”—the healthy competition among scholars increases wisdom. When one student sees the accomplishments of another, it can inspire him to strive higher as well.
Proceeding With Caution
At the same time, the Rebbe notes that there may also be reasons not to publicize too much or make the program overly prominent. Sometimes excessive publicity can create unintended opposition or draw unnecessary attention in ways that may not be helpful.
Therefore, the Rebbe advises that all those involved should think the matter through together. Through calm and honest discussion, they will be able to determine which considerations are decisive and what course of action is best.
Personal Blessings
The Rebbe concludes with warm blessings for Rabbi Rot personally:
- Success in his own studies of Nigleh (the revealed parts of Torah) and Chassidus
- Growth in the service of prayer
- Success in influencing others in a positive way
- The merit to see true and lasting good results from his efforts
- Not only spiritual good, but good that is open, visible, and tangible
He closes with blessings for good news in all these matters.
Lesson of the Letter
This letter teaches that growth requires both enthusiasm and wisdom. Encouragement, recognition, and healthy competition can inspire great achievement—but every initiative must also be weighed carefully. True leadership means knowing when to advance boldly and when to proceed thoughtfully.