Shiurim in this topic
Meir Witsky is addressed in the Rebbe’s correspondence as an avrech (young Torah scholar) actively involved in organizing and teaching Torah classes (shiurim) in his local synagogue. The Rebbe’s letter recognizes his efforts to renew communal Torah study and foster Jewish observance among the synagogue’s members.
The Rebbe’s letter to Meir Witsky, dated 4 Tammuz 5711 (1951), expresses appreciation for his initiative in reestablishing a Torah class in the synagogue and for conveying greetings and updates about the community’s Shabbos Mevarchim customs. The Rebbe encourages him to further inspire the congregants to adopt additional Shabbos Mevarchim practices, such as the communal recitation of Tehillim (Psalms).
The Rebbe shares a teaching discussed on Shabbos Parshas Shelach, focusing on the episode of the spies (meraglim) and their reluctance to enter the Land of Israel. Drawing from Chassidus and Rashi, the Rebbe explains that the spies’ error was preferring a life of pure spirituality in the desert over engaging with the physical world in Eretz Yisrael, where mitzvah observance involves daily material activities. The Rebbe emphasizes that fulfilling G-d’s will in ordinary, practical matters—when done as a Jew should—is even more precious than the exclusive spiritual pursuits of the desert.
Applying this lesson to contemporary Jewish life, the Rebbe encourages Meir Witsky and his community not to be discouraged by the challenges of exile or by the limited scope of their Torah study (such as learning from the Kitzur Shulchan Aruch or stories of the righteous). He assures them that serving G-d with joy, even in simple ways, fulfills the Divine will and brings spiritual warmth into their homes.
The Rebbe concludes by asking Witsky to convey his greetings to all participants in the classes and blesses them with success in their Torah learning and in spreading Jewish warmth throughout the community.