Source: A letter written in the Rebbe's name, 15 Menachem Av 5717: Igros Kodesh, vol. 15, no. 5635.
In the Alter Rebbe's Shulchan Aruch: Orach Chaim, Siman 36, seif 2.
1. The Question of Tefillin Parshiyos Tradition
A question was posed to the Rebbe regarding the appropriate tradition to follow when ordering new tefillin for family members who come from Chabad backgrounds. The individual wanted to know whether the parshiyos—the Torah passages written inside the tefillin—should be written according to Chabad custom or according to the more widespread tradition used by most Jews. At the heart of the question was a desire to fulfill what Hashem truly wants: should one follow the majority practice, or adhere to their familial and communal heritage?
2. The Rebbe’s Response: Surprised by the Question
The Rebbe expressed surprise at this line of questioning, emphasizing that this matter has already been established as halacha. He referenced a principle from the Gemara: "דבאתרי' (השייכים) דרב נהוג כרב" ("in the places [that belong to] Rav, they follow Rav"). The Rebbe questioned why one would think it more pleasing to Hashem to use tefillin written in accordance with the majority custom, rather than following the tradition of one's own community.
3. The Authority and Intent of the Alter Rebbe
The Rebbe clarified that when the Alter Rebbe instituted his version of tefillin, he did so with full intent that it should be most acceptable before HaKadosh Baruch Hu—the Holy One, blessed be He. In fact, during the time of the Alter Rebbe, those who followed his teachings were even fewer than today, when Chassidus has spread much further. Nevertheless, he instructed his followers to write parshiyos in a specific way, demonstrating that fidelity to one's tradition is paramount.
4. Following Established Paths and Leadership
The Rebbe encouraged the questioner not to constantly seek out questions and contradictions but instead to walk in the straightforward path—naaseh v’nishma—first do, then understand: "והלואי כבר הי' עוזב דרכו לחפש קושיות וסתירות ויתחיל ללכת בדרך הישרה בהקדמת נעשה לנשמע" ("If only he would already leave off seeking questions and contradictions, and begin to walk in the straight path, putting 'we will do' before 'we will hear'"). This is how our holy Rebbeim have guided us: by establishing clear customs for their communities. This approach is not unique to Chabad but is a general principle for all Klal Yisrael—the Jewish people.
5. Inclusivity and Uniqueness of Chabad Custom
The Rebbe referenced the teaching of the Maggid of Mezritch, who was also the teacher of the author of the Hafla'ah, who was the teacher of R. Nosson Adler, who was the teacher of the Chasam Sofer. The Maggid explains that there are “thirteen gates” through which prayers ascend—one for each tribe and an inclusive gate for all Jews together, which includes all twelve (see the introduction to Shaar HaKollel on the Siddur). The Alter Rebbe’s approach was designed not as an individualistic path but as an inclusive one, suitable for all.
6. Minority Status and Following Tradition
Addressing concerns about following a minority practice, the Rebbe pointed out that Jews themselves are a minority among nations; religious Jews are a minority among Jews; Chassidim are a minority among religious Jews; and Chabad is a minority within Chassidim. Yet, in matters such as these, we do not determine right action by majority rule but by fidelity to our Rabbis’ teachings and our established traditions.