6240 —הבהרה על מקורות התניא וחיזוק לימוד החסידות

B"H, 11 Iyar, 5718.

Brooklyn.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

In response to your letter from the 4th of Iyar, in which you ask: Is it correct what people say—that when our master the Alter Rebbe writes in his introduction to Tanya "from books," he is referring to the works of Maharal of Prague? This is indeed how chassidim interpret it when studying Tanya, based on what they received from elder chassidim through generations, though I have not heard this directly from my revered father-in-law, the Rebbe—may his merit protect us—even though generally chassidic tradition is authoritative. Note also that the phrase "from books and from scribes" appears as well in the introduction to part two of Tanya (called Chinuch Katan), and also in the wording of Shaar HaTanya. I heard from my revered father-in-law that the words "Sefer Likkutei Amarim... in a long and short way with Hashem's help" are from the Alter Rebbe himself (and in chapter 42, with reversed order). Incidentally, this same phrase is also found in Avodat HaKodesh by R. Meir ibn Gabbai, part four chapter one, and several times in Shnei Luchot HaBrit.* [Found in a manuscript by a chassid: see Yerushalmi Yevamot chapter four halacha eleven—Rava d'Matnita Rava d'Ulphana—see there.]

Regarding what you wrote about strengthening Chassidus: see the writings of my revered father-in-law where he discusses this at length, especially Kuntres Limud HaChassidus and Kuntres Toras HaChassidus. The main strengthening is based on the Mishnah's teaching that action is primary; here this means to study amply and practically—to not let a day pass without learning this Torah, and on Shabbos to add even more.

You surely know about the three well-known daily study portions—Chumash, Tehillim, and Tanya—and keep them. We have often heard from my revered father-in-law that they are suited for every soul and are a segulah for many matters.

Blessings for good news.

Summary

The Rebbe clarifies traditions regarding Tanya's sources and underscores that authentic chassidic practice means consistent daily study of Chassidus. He encourages not missing even one day of learning these teachings and highlights their universal benefit for all souls.