7664 —הדרכה בבחירת חברים ושמירה על ערכי חסידות

Shalom u'Vrachah! [10 Sivan 5721] I acknowledge receipt of your letter from the 8th of Sivan, and it is with great astonishment that I read such a strange idea, even as a mere possibility, that one of your sons would leave an environment saturated with Torah, the words of the living G‑d and its matters, to join a group led by those who reject these principles, etc., etc.

Surely, in our times it is impossible to say that people are unaware of Chassidus—its content and guidance—regardless of which circle of Torah scholars they belong to. And this knowledge does not allow a person to remain neutral, because Chassidus demands not only an inclination towards it but also action. One can either accept it or reject it. At most, one can ignore the whole issue, but those you mention do not follow the path of ignoring (for whatever reason). On the contrary, they intend to make clear rulings on these matters. And this is obvious.

All that was said above remains true—even if we were not speaking about a son from Anash and one who possesses the talents and knowledge your son has—especially so in this case. There are many students like him with whom he can connect, as I know from their letters and other information.

It is understood that as a study partner (chavrusa), there should be compatibility not only in knowledge and talents but also in character traits, etc., so you should consult those who know the Avrechim and choose from among them those who seem most suitable. May Hashem grant them success.

It is very likely that your son's mood, about which you write, has nothing at all to do with the matters you mention but rather results from the change in atmosphere from being here to coming to Eretz HaKodesh. And this is sufficient explanation.

Blessings that together with her husband the Rav, she will raise all their children in a manner fitting the will of our Rebbeim Nesi'im and derive true nachas—Chassidic nachas—in every sense.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that when choosing companions or study partners for one's children, both spiritual alignment and personal compatibility are crucial. He emphasizes maintaining strong Chassidic values despite changes in environment or outside influences.