6968 —על דיבור נכון, הפצת המעיינות, ואחריות בהתוועדויות

Shalom u'Vrachah!

I was shocked to receive a letter from... regarding the farbrengen in the synagogue in which he participated, specifically about the style of speech he used and certain expressions regarding certain individuals, etc.

It is certainly unnecessary to elaborate on how much self-sacrifice our Rebbeim had for spreading the wellsprings outward. They were precise not only about the word "wellsprings" but also about "outward," which shows how completely out of place any opposition or fighting against spreading is. It is also unnecessary to emphasize that using inappropriate expressions anywhere—even if none of those present would find fault—is still a great responsibility when speaking publicly. All the more so when among those present are people who are not favorably disposed toward Chassidus and its matters. And since spreading the wellsprings is a directive from our Rebbeim—meaning it is a Torah matter—even a doubt should be treated stringently; all the more so since this spreading is saving Jewish lives, like pikuach nefesh; and especially in this farbrengen where it was certainly not just a doubt.

There are some whose use of such expressions comes as a result of having tasted too much mashke (liquor), but even here I see no necessity for it. On the contrary—according to many talks from my father-in-law, the previous Rebbe—this behavior is objectionable (if not to use an even stronger term) in itself as well.

I do not know if I would have written all this if it only concerned the past, but since I am concerned for the future as well, I am making my opinion clear and explicit: using such expressions is not only forbidden according to Torah [as ruled by Rabbeinu HaZaken in Orach Chaim section 156:10-11 and at the end of Hilchos Ona'ah section 25], but it also opposes the work of our Rebbeim Nesi'im. And if drinking mashke might lead to what was described above, then one must refrain from it wherever there is such concern.

It is understood that you have permission—and perhaps even more than permission—to publicize what I have said here, especially since I am personally involved in this matter. After all, complaint letters from... that reached me claim first and foremost that all this was said because he was chosen for a mission to a certain country on my special behalf.

It is also understood that there is no element here of anger or annoyance—only notification of an error I made when I said that so-and-so would surely do everything possible according to intention as I understand it and by means leading to this intention. Apparently regarding these means at least—I made a complete mistake.

At an auspicious time I will mention him at the holy resting place of my father-in-law, the previous Rebbe, for success according to what he wrote. May it be G‑d's will that he will report good news regarding all of this.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that proper speech and conduct are essential when representing Chassidus and fulfilling its mission. Even small missteps can undermine efforts to spread holiness; therefore, one must act with care and responsibility at all times.