7742 —בחירת בית ספר חסידי וחשיבות יראת שמים

Shalom u'Vrachah! [3 Elul 5721]

In response to your letter from Rosh Chodesh Elul, in which you write about your birthday, and also about your place of study—which is not in... because you believe that the educational institution in... is not on the same level. The wonder and surprise are clear, especially knowing your home—a chassidic home—and your upbringing of this kind. Therefore, it should be clear in your mind and decision that the highest level is specifically that which is established and directed by the Frierdiker Rebbe, Nasi Yisrael.

The explanation is certainly that knowledge itself is not the main thing, but rather the results—that they should fit the person's purpose in this world, as our Sages say: "I was created to serve my Creator." Fulfilling this purpose depends on the degree of yiras Shamayim (fear of Heaven) in education and help from Above, with siyata diShmaya.

And since, as you wrote, you are entering a new year—"most years bring wisdom"—may it be G‑d's will that He guide you to truth: "The beginning of wisdom is fear of Hashem," to be educated within a chassidic framework, within the four cubits of the Frierdiker Rebbe. Certainly through this there will be an increase in arousing great mercy regarding your other matters as well.

May it be G‑d's will that instead of those who may have learned from you regarding their educational institution as mentioned above, from now on you will serve as a living example of a chassidic daughter—in both your education and where you are found. I mean literally: education in an institution of the Frierdiker Rebbe, Nasi Yisrael, as stated above.

Blessings for good news soon and with wishes for a good inscription and sealing for the new year.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that true educational excellence lies in an environment infused with yiras Shamayim and chassidic values. Choosing such a setting shapes one's character and life mission far beyond academic achievement alone.