8579 —לקחים מספר הישר ומהאבות לחיי היום יום

B"H, 15 Teves, 5723.

Brooklyn, NY.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

I acknowledge receipt of your letter. As we stand in the weekly Torah portions at the conclusion of Sefer Bereishis—called Sefer HaYashar because the deeds of the upright ones, Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov, are written in it—it is clear and self-evident that this is not merely a story (G‑d forbid) about the deeds of our forefathers. Rather, it is a lesson and instruction for each and every one of us. As our Sages say: Maaseh Avos Siman L'Banim (the deeds of the fathers are a sign for the children). May it be G‑d's will that each one of us among all Israel acts in accordance with the three lines exemplified by our three forefathers: in the line of kindness—the service of Avraham Avinu; in the line of service and prayer—the service of Yitzchak Avinu; in the line of Torah—the service of Yaakov Avinu.

This should be done with pleasure and vitality specifically—even though worldly matters (from the word 'helem,' concealment) limit, obscure, and constrict us. On the contrary: through these constraints we should add vitality! As at the beginning of this week's portion: Vayechi Yaakov (Yaakov lived—all-inclusive of all the forefathers) in Eretz Mitzrayim (the land of Egypt). We must do what is upright in the eyes of Hashem; and "the reward for a mitzvah is a mitzvah"—the upright will behold His countenance. This fulfills the promise that "every eye will see"—with the coming of Moshiach Tzidkeinu speedily in our days.

With blessings for good news as above,
M. Schneersohn

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that stories about our forefathers are living lessons for us: to serve G‑d with kindness, prayer, and Torah study—joyfully—even when faced with challenges. By following their example with vitality, we help bring redemption closer.