6539 —בחירת מקום ללמד, השפעה על הנוער, ויוזמות חידון תורה

B"H, 3rd of Marcheshvan, 5719.

Brooklyn.

Havavac"h iy"a nu"n involved in tzt"z Mohe Yitzchak.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

After a long break, your letter from Motzaei Shabbat Parshat Bereishit was received. In the style of chassidic stories about the custom of our ancestors in Russia long ago—on Motzaei Simchat Torah they would announce: "And Yaakov went on his way." This also marks the beginning of a new period in a person's service generally and specifically in fulfilling one's inner and personal mission, as our Sages teach: to serve my Creator and make for Him (may He be blessed) a dwelling place below. As explained in Iggeret HaKodesh by the Alter Rebbe, section 14: each year brings renewed service on a higher level. In the words of that letter: a light descends that never shone before since the beginning of time—a supreme light—to the highest earth and its inhabitants (all upper and lower worlds), and upon those below through their deeds and service to reveal this hidden light.

You write about your choice between teaching classes in Be'er Sheva or continuing your usual work among youth, having chosen the latter and seeking my opinion. My view matches yours, as I have written before: working with youth influences how they build their homes within Israel—meaning any change in the recipient is a change at the foundation of his future home. His entire future lies ahead. Yet it is worthwhile to consider how you might also have some influence in Be'er Sheva. All matters are by Divine Providence; when a Jew learns he can influence somewhere, that very fact shows he must do so—especially since you were specifically requested for this role. The connection is strong enough that even others feel it (as explained in Chassidus: free choice exists only among Jews who are part of G‑d above; true free will is found only where existence stems from essence itself). Even if you cannot give regular classes there, surely you can arrange periodic visits every two or three weeks. The lecture then should be comprehensive enough to provide material for thought until your next visit. Most importantly, maintain contact by letter or visits so you can continue influencing them practically—as you wrote regarding arrangements for Einot.

Regarding your note that you yourself need more understanding—surely you know no one is exempt from this need. As told in the notes to Tanya regarding learning Tanya and Chumash: both the greatest and smallest are equal here—everyone has a share but none has reached completion. I believe I already wrote to you that this is the ruling in Shulchan Aruch: every Jew is obligated in tzedakah—not only physical gold and silver but also spiritual gold and silver (love and awe), which are brought about through contemplation; love and awe lead to fulfillment of mitzvot as explained at the start of Tanya chapter 4.

Regarding your question about a Tanach quiz—I believe conditions are ripe for proposing a combined Tanach-and-Mishnah quiz; there is good reason to expect it will be accepted since people prefer something new. A Tanach quiz has already been held—even though it was not fully developed—and there remains room for improvement. If Mishnah is added alongside Tanach, both will flourish; even if initially not for its own sake (as per "mitoch shelo lishmah..."). Emphasize the value of Mishnah's language, its eternal nature, its belovedness even among various circles—and highlight that this combination brings novelty and addition.

My deeper intent here should be clear from my opening: this step brings things closer to practical action. Another point: as our Sages explain regarding Written vs Oral Torah—it is through Oral Torah that "we are distinguished from all nations" (Shemot Rabbah ch. 47). Especially since last year's Tanach quiz left an undesirable impression due to certain participants; enough said.

Additionally, note that the first order of Mishnah—Zeraim—is now especially relevant due to Jewish settlement in Eretz HaKodesh involving agriculture etc.; certainly such a quiz should include prizes and printed materials—which can serve as channels for instilling authentic Judaism among those you write about.

I was pleased to read what you wrote about your son and daughter—may you merit true Jewish nachas from both together: nachas both material and spiritual.

Blessings for good news in all mentioned above.

Summary

The Rebbe encourages focusing efforts on youth education while seeking ways to extend influence elsewhere as well, highlights continual spiritual growth for all levels, supports innovative Torah learning initiatives like combined quizzes on Tanach and Mishnah, and stresses infusing every effort with authentic Jewish values.