10174 —המשמעות של יב-יג תמוז לישיבת אחי תמימים נוארק

B"H, Eve of Rosh Chodesh Tammuz, 5731.

Brooklyn, NY.

To all participants in the testimonial dinner of Yeshiva Achei Temimim in Newark, may Hashem be upon them and grant them life.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

I send my greetings and heartfelt wishes to the esteemed guests and participants at this gathering, which is taking place before Rosh Chodesh Tammuz approaches.

This month holds special significance for Yeshiva Achei-Temimim in Newark, as it does for many similar educational institutions in various parts of the world that were established by and in the spirit of my revered father-in-law, the Admor. This is because it is the month of his liberation forty-four years ago, after he risked his life with self-sacrificing activity for Torah and Judaism in a struggle against a powerful regime.

His liberation on Yud-Beis–Yud-Gimmel Tammuz was a turning point not only in his own life and work but also for all Russian Jewry, which at that time comprised the majority of the Jewish people and stood in danger of forced assimilation and destruction under the pressure of a colossal power that would stop at nothing to carry out its plans. His victory over such a mighty adversary was not just a personal triumph but a victory for all Israel, as subsequent years have shown. Torah-Judaism and the spirit of Netzach Yisrael remained firmly rooted in that land, and Russian Jewry continued to serve as a source of Torah and Chassidus whose influence is felt to this day in Eretz Yisrael and everywhere else—including here in America.

It has often been emphasized that the purpose of commemorations in Jewish life is not merely to record important events from the past but so that they serve as lessons for the present and future. True, no one can compare themselves to the Baal HaGeulah with his extraordinary powers and self-sacrifice for Torah and Ahavas Yisrael. However, we must not forget that the circumstances under which he worked and fought are incomparable to those we have today here in this country. We live, thank G‑d, in a land that values ideals of freedom and religious values; here one does not need to risk one's life to live according to Torah or maintain Torah institutions. All that is required is to strengthen one's own connection with Torah-Judaism and have a firm will to uphold Judaism—giving up no more than time, effort, and money.

The historical events commemorated on Yud-Beis–Yud-Gimmel Tammuz also clearly show that wherever there is firm willpower and determination to act accordingly, then G‑d's blessing and success are assured—especially when it comes to matters involving public merit: the merit of many Jewish children (may they multiply), whose entire future is bound up with this Torah institution.

Considering that the yeshiva will soon move into its new beautiful home, I hope that all friends of the yeshiva will further strengthen their support so that it may continue to flourish, grow, and go from strength to strength. In this way we will also broaden the channels through which we receive Hashem's blessings in all our needs—both material and spiritual together.

With honor and blessing for success and good tidings,
M. Schneersohn

Summary

The Rebbe teaches us to draw inspiration from past triumphs over adversity by strengthening our commitment to Torah education today. Supporting institutions like Achei Temimim ensures Jewish continuity—and brings blessings both materially and spiritually.