7085 —קרית גת, ישיבת חב"ד, ושנת ה-200 להסתלקות הבעל שם טוב

B"H, 22 MarCheshvan, 5720.

Brooklyn, NY.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

Since the election season has already passed, and surely also its "Isru Chag," I allow myself to once again address the content of our conversation when you were here—mainly regarding two points: the matter of Kiryat Gat and the Chabad yeshiva there. I hope that you, as chairman of Romanian immigrants, are doing all you can in this regard. Also concerning your assistance with Kfar Chabad II—I wrote at greater length about this to our friend Mr. Shazar and will not elaborate here since I trust our conversation remains fresh in your memory.

On this occasion I will note that this year marks the 200th anniversary of the passing—the hilulah—of the Baal Shem Tov. This awakens memories passed down from generation to generation and especially recalled during jubilee years. Since the motto for all Jewish matters is—as our sages say in their Mishnah—action is paramount, so too the purpose of these memories is to inspire deeds in his spirit.

It is well known that one of the Baal Shem Tov's first activities—even before his public revelation—was to strengthen Jewish settlements in villages and inns at crossroads, not only spiritually but also materially. From this comes a lesson for each of us; further elaboration is unnecessary.

With respect and blessings for good news in all mentioned matters.

I read in the press about a seminar for religious teachers and that apparently even the Moshavim Union has a part in it. I am interested to know details about this; thank you in advance.

Summary

The Rebbe encourages practical support for Jewish communities and institutions, drawing inspiration from the Baal Shem Tov's legacy that remembrance must lead to action both spiritually and materially.