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Rabbi Reuven Glick is addressed in the correspondence as a distinguished Torah scholar and the author of the multi-volume work Mishpetei Bnei Adam. The letter from the Lubavitcher Rebbe acknowledges Rabbi Glick’s scholarly contributions and his engagement in halachic discourse, particularly concerning complex issues in Jewish law.
The Rebbe’s letter to Rabbi Glick is a detailed halachic response, prompted by Glick’s book and a previous letter. The Rebbe confirms receipt of the three volumes of Mishpetei Bnei Adam and addresses specific points raised by Rabbi Glick regarding the prohibition against self-harm or self-shaming for monetary purposes. The discussion references the views of the Yesh Shlom on Bava Kama, the Shulchan Aruch HaRav, and other classic sources.
The Rebbe respectfully challenges Rabbi Glick’s distinctions and interpretations, particularly questioning the basis for differentiating between types of self-inflicted harm and the relevance of mockery or neglect of Torah in these cases. The Rebbe emphasizes the principle that a person has no authority over his own body to harm, shame, or cause himself pain, citing both the Shulchan Aruch HaRav and the Radbaz on Rambam.
The correspondence also touches on the definition of a “rasha” (wicked person) in the context of transgressing even minor rabbinic prohibitions or neglecting positive commandments, referencing Tanya and Talmudic sources. The Rebbe offers nuanced explanations and suggests further avenues for study, demonstrating a tone of scholarly engagement and mutual respect.
The tone of the letter is collegial and analytical, reflecting the Rebbe’s esteem for Rabbi Glick’s scholarship. The Rebbe engages directly with Rabbi Glick’s arguments, providing detailed sources and reasoning, and even comments on the structure of Glick’s book. This exchange highlights the Rebbe’s approach to Torah scholarship—valuing rigorous analysis, respectful debate, and the pursuit of clarity in halachic matters.