6593 —חשיבות לימוד תורה לאברכים צעירים והדרכה בבחירת מקצוע

B"H, 9 Kislev, 5719.

Brooklyn.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

This is in response to your letter from November 6th. I was greatly surprised to read that you are no longer studying in yeshiva, even though you are only 20 years old. The holy books explain at length how important Torah study is throughout a person's entire life—how much more so during the years before one bears the burden of supporting a family. As the well-known saying from the Mishnah goes: Im Lo Achshav Eimatai (If not now, when?).

Regarding your question about purpose: there is enough time to consider this; ultimately, one's livelihood depends on Hashem, Who nourishes the entire world with His goodness, grace, kindness, and mercy. He, blessed be He, has promised that if we study Torah and fulfill mitzvos—even when the time comes to work—there is still enough time before marriage to learn a profession for a few hours, while the rest of the time can still be spent learning in yeshiva.

What you wrote about studying electronics at home is unclear to me because such studies are connected with various machines and instruments that can only be used in a school setting. Perhaps "electronics" is not the correct term here.

At an auspicious time you will be mentioned at the holy resting place of my father-in-law, the Rebbe zatzal nishmaso Eden (may his merit protect us), as well as your mother for what she needs. It goes without saying that every addition in matters of Torah and mitzvos by any family member—especially by you who brings this request—will add to Hashem's blessings in all that is needed.

It would be appropriate for you to keep the custom of saying each day after davening in the morning the daily portion of Tehillim as it is divided among the days of the month—and every weekday before davening to give a few cents to tzedakah. Your mother should also keep up the good custom of Jewish women to give tzedakah every time before lighting candles on Erev Shabbos and Erev Yom Tov.

With blessings for good news in all mentioned above,
In the name of my father-in-law, the Rebbe shlita,
Mazkir

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that Torah study remains vital throughout life but especially before taking on family responsibilities. He encourages balancing career preparation with ongoing learning and emphasizes daily Tehillim and acts of charity as sources of blessing.