8209 —הדפסת שולחן ערוך, אנציקלופדיא תלמודית, ואתגרי הקהילה

B"H, 22 Teves, 5720. Brooklyn.

Haraha"g Haraha"ch iy"a nu"n oseik b'tzt"z tzm"s etc. Shlomo Yosef Zuvin

Shalom u'Vrachah!

In response to your letter from the 18th of Teves, I have asked the administration of Kehot to reply promptly regarding the printing of the Alter Rebbe's Shulchan Aruch as you mentioned about the Avrech... It is questionable what can be done here, since action (pressure) is effective in matters dependent on will, but only rarely in those dependent on ability. And since you have already become involved in this matter, you surely saw the letter from Ksav Kodesh HaTorah. Even though I am not familiar with the customs of Jerusalem in such cases, it seems that the demands are unusually excessive even among those who tend to exaggerate.

Regarding what you wrote about Haraha"g etc. Reb Dovid Chanzin—it is surprising that you do not mention his position as a dayan (rabbinic judge), especially since recently Rabbi Walgelernter visited me and during our conversation he mentioned that in his meeting with you this issue was also raised. Also from Reb Dovid Chanzin I have not received any information about this...

Regarding what you wrote about Encyclopedia Talmudit—my attitude toward this project is well known; therefore I will act appropriately if your writing requires it. But I must repeat again that several months ago when speaking with a representative of the Claims Conference (Committee for Restitution and Compensation), I expressed my surprise that they do not increase their support for publishing the encyclopedia. They answered me: on the contrary! And if only the publishers were more diligent so they would also increase their grant. When I asked if they had informed the project's administration about this, they answered affirmatively.

My hope is that at least in connection with the yahrzeit of my revered father-in-law, the Rebbe—may his merit protect us—on the tenth of next month, there will be increased activity in all Chabad institutions in Eretz Yisrael among all Chabad activities everywhere. For unfortunately I still do not merit good news and proper celebrations—perhaps not even somewhat less than that.

And soon—regarding the Vaad Batei Sefer HaReshet in Jerusalem which apparently has not yet begun operations; likewise regarding Chabad housing there—which it seems has been discussed for over a year—and I was informed... that they hope by the end of Shevat to lay... the cornerstone! This pain adds to my distress over the situation in Eretz Yisrael concerning Yeshivas Toras Emes and so forth.

Since we are commanded to conclude with good and since Hashem does not come with complaints against His creations, certainly the conclusion and seal of all above will also be as in our prayer: we ask and effect from the Source of blessings what is good for us. May it be His will that it be speedily in our days.

Summary

The Rebbe addresses communal difficulties but urges continued effort and faith that G‑d will bring positive outcomes. He highlights both practical limitations and spiritual encouragement while emphasizing hope for improvement through collective action.