8021 —עידוד למעורבות קהילתית וחשיבות החינוך

B"H, 22 Tammuz, 5714.

Brooklyn.

Haraha"g vavac"h iy"a nu"n ossek b'tzt"z etc. ...

Shalom u'Vrachah!

I received your letter some time ago in response to mine. Regarding what you wrote about the community activist who visited me and your uncertainty about what he reported concerning ...: he only spoke positively—about his talents, conduct, and activities—but expressed regret that he is not utilizing his abilities for communal matters in general, and especially in education. I agreed with him on this point, even more so—knowing and having heard several times from my revered father-in-law, the Rebbe (may his merit protect us), about the great importance of this matter in all places and times, and certainly in our generation where this is even more critical, especially when one is found in such a place. I did not find an answer to this point even in your letter.

Especially since you write that your business is heavily burdened with debts, and you thank Hashem that now you are able to pay off some of them; if so—the question "Why am I here?" stands out even more strongly.

You also mention that you give a Gemara class etc.; it is well known that "according to the camel is its load," and especially since giving a Gemara class—even though its importance is understood—is not comparable to matters of education, particularly those connected with practical mitzvos. This is a passing mitzvah—and moreover—a passing generation: i.e., youth; if not now, when? To elaborate further would certainly be unnecessary for someone like yourself.

And although you judge ... favorably, my strong hope is that this applies only in your letter to me; but regarding ..., you should use all your influence on him and also enlist others so he will recognize his role and responsibility in this mitzvah that cannot be done by others—which overrides even Torah study as ruled by our Sages (Moed Katan 9b). May it be G‑d's will that you succeed quickly; as above—this is a passing mitzvah and a passing generation.

Certainly you gathered on the days of redemption—12th and 13th of Tammuz—the days of liberation of my revered father-in-law the Rebbe (may his merit protect us), head of Israel; may Hashem grant success to each one who follows the head. From now on may obstacles to spreading Judaism generally—and especially to strengthening and expanding the institutions in which my revered father-in-law invested effort—be diminished or eliminated entirely. Let us walk in his ways—may he protect us.

With blessing,
M. Schneersohn

P.S. Rabbi ... visited me; surely you will convey regards as well as about what he promised me—to do what he can for Yeshivas Oholei Yosef Yitzchak Lubavitch at ... Surely you too will strengthen and assist in this matter.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that every individual must use their talents for communal good—especially education—which cannot be left to others or postponed. Active involvement strengthens both personal growth and the broader Jewish community.