7307 —עידוד לבן הבוחר בלימוד תורה על פני תעודות חילוניות

B"H, 20 Iyar, 5720. Brooklyn.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

In response to your letter dated 5/6, in which you write about your son, expressing concern that he should study in order to receive a matriculation certificate (bagrut), etc., as if this is the only way for your son to secure his future.

It is surprising, since you are living in a place like Eretz HaKodesh (may it be rebuilt and established), you surely know that thousands of Avrechim—may they multiply—of your son's age are in yeshivas throughout Eretz HaKodesh, learning our holy Torah, which is also called the Torah of Life, encompassing both this world and the next. They study with diligence and perseverance, with inner confidence, joy, and gladness of heart.

What increases my astonishment is that you must have seen what has been published in various newspapers in Eretz HaKodesh regarding what is happening within the souls of the youth there and their conduct. The strongest protection against the unusual winds blowing in the streets is found specifically in these yeshivas. To such an extent that among thousands of wayward youths, not one is found among those who learn Torah all day.

The primary duty of parents regarding their children is to establish them firmly in life without inner rifts or conflicts (complications). After having tried various educational approaches recently—as shown by dry statistics published everywhere and similarly in other countries—the results have been clarified decisively.

In other words: even if your son did not have an inclination toward this type of learning, your role would be to influence him to agree at least for several years. Now, by G‑d's kindness, you have been blessed with a son possessing good character traits who has chosen on his own the good, beautiful, and holy path—to follow this approach and study accordingly. You should thank G‑d for His blessing and strengthen and encourage your son in his decision so that he continues to grow.

Certainly—and certainly—the One about whom it is said "HaZan et haOlam kulo b'tuvo b'chen u'vchesed u'vrachamim" ("Who sustains the entire world with His goodness, grace, kindness, and mercy"), who sustains two and a half billion people—will provide him with his livelihood at its proper time as well as for your son while he studies the Creator's Torah with warmth and enthusiasm. This will increase G‑d's blessings as it says: Im Bechukotai Telechu ("If you walk in My statutes") [as our Sages explain: laboring in Torah]... "and I will give your rains..." along with all the blessings listed in the parsha.

Blessings for true Jewish chassidic nachas from your son—which is true nachas—and with health and gladness of heart from all the above.

Summary

The Rebbe encourages parents to support their son's dedication to Torah study over secular achievements, assuring them that true success and protection come through commitment to Torah values and that G‑d will provide all necessary blessings.