7071 —מלוה מלכה, השראה משבת בראשית, והתלהבות בתורה

B"H, 14th of Marcheshvan, 5720. Brooklyn.

To the honored participants in the Melaveh Malkah gathering, the meal of David Malka Meshicha, on Motzaei Shabbos Kodesh Parshas Bereishis: "Bereishis bara Elokim es hashamayim v'es haaretz" (In the beginning G‑d created the heavens and the earth), may Hashem be upon you for life. Shalom u'Vrachah!

It pleased me to receive your letter at the aforementioned gathering along with your good resolution regarding communal Torah study. Especially in light of the saying of my revered father-in-law, the Rebbe zatzal: regarding Shabbos Bereishis and its matters—"Vi m'shtelt zich avek—azoi geit dos" (How one positions oneself—so it goes), which gives hope and confidence that you will conduct yourselves with this good measure throughout the coming year, with appropriate joy and gladness of heart.

May it be G‑d's will, as brought in Orach Chaim Siman 300 regarding the advantage of this meal in benefiting the essence bone (loz), from which man will live etc.—that renewed vitality and enthusiasm should be felt in all matters of Torah and mitzvos, as well as in daily life.

Especially since we are now in the two-hundredth year since the passing (yahrzeit) of the Baal Shem Tov, whose teachings are founded on serving Hashem with joy, vitality, and enthusiasm. Our Rebbeim have told how the Baal Shem Tov "loved brightness," even literally; it is well known how he and his students increased candles on Motzaei Shabbos.

Blessings for good news in all mentioned above—and obviously also for good news regarding the strengthening and development of the holy institution Talmud Torah Beis Yosef Yeshivas Lubavitch located in your camp.

Summary

This letter encourages maintaining inspiration from Shabbos Bereishis throughout the year by acting with joy and enthusiasm in Torah study and mitzvos. Drawing from teachings of the Baal Shem Tov, it highlights how positive beginnings shape continued success.