9528 —הדרכה על הנהגת קהילה, תפקידי רבנות, והתמודדות עם שמועות

B"H, 22 Tammuz, 5728.

Brooklyn, NY.

Haraha"g veHaraha"ch vavac"h iy"a nu"n oseik b-tzt"z ba'al meretz ve-rav pe'alim etc. — HaRavAG —

Shalom u'Vrachah!

I have received a copy of your two letters. Regarding what I wrote in my letter to Rav Shlamme that I view the entire matter as a case of kas d (the meaning is literal): if the individual truly wishes it, he should continue his role at Beis Rivkah as before and even with greater strength—even if he had previously made certain promises regarding the rabbinic position, etc. This can also be explained according to halachah. However, this is not the main point; rather it depends on the will of the individual and his wife—either one or both together.

The individual does not know that copies of the letters were sent to Keter R., and I rely on your understanding whether to reveal this to him or not.

With blessings for good news.

P.S. Enclosed is a letter from Haraha"ch etc., HaRacham A., and since our Sages have instructed us: "Respect him but suspect him," in our case too I am concerned that although he told me clearly that his visit is only to clarify the situation, he might speak about the need for them to move from there to the neighborhood of our friends Rabbis Zoin and Wolf and so forth—and add frightening rumors that G‑d forbid there could be an undesirable change for our brethren Israel, etc.

Since in my opinion (and I told Rav Z.S.) it is clear this is a rumor fabricated just to frighten and pressure them into moving, as has already been done several times in various places (and so forth), I am concerned he is under pressure to speak in line with those who sent him.

Therefore it is necessary that after this individual leaves—which is expected to be after about nine days—Keter R. should find a reason to visit Rabbis Matosov, Pinson, and perhaps also Lipsker and Djerba (since he plans to visit all these places), and take the opportunity to strengthen the hearts of our brethren Israel so they are not afraid at all—not only institutions but also those who are not Chabad should continue their activities—as well as private individuals.

This should be done in a way that raises great concern about transferring youth from religion when they move to Zoin-Wolf's neighborhood under threat—details you surely know about. As long as there is no actual change preventing such transfers (as mentioned above), it is clear one cannot rely at all on any promises or assurances.

It is also understood that since they promised Chabad that youth educated in Chabad institutions will henceforth be directed toward Chabad if they wish so—and because of relations between Zoin's neighborhood members and Rav Z.S. here—there is absolutely no reason to break ties with them unless absolutely necessary. Therefore it would be good if there was some gap between Keter R.'s visits to these places and Rav Z.S.'s visit so as not to overly emphasize the inner intent.

As mentioned above, Keter R. should also find a reason for traveling to Matosov etc., for another purpose (and so forth).

All this is written based on conjecture and reasonable concern; surely you will learn more details from Rabbis Matosov etc., regarding the visit and discussions—so you will have a clearer picture before you regarding what must be prevented (and so forth).

May it be G‑d's will that His desire succeed through your hand—to calm the spirit of our brethren Israel wherever they are—to strengthen their status within their communities—and to develop our institutions in every way with joy and goodness of heart.

Your letters from 3rd and 7th Shevat were received—as well as the check for ten (which perhaps I already acknowledged) and for eight.

Summary

This letter teaches us about steadfast leadership amid communal challenges: prioritizing genuine intent over external pressures, acting thoughtfully against rumors or manipulation, strengthening both individuals and institutions with wisdom—and always seeking unity for positive growth.