Shiurim in this topic
Aryeh Leib Gelman was a prominent Jewish communal leader, identified in the correspondence as standing at the head of a political party and deeply involved in public affairs, particularly relating to the Jewish community and the Land of Israel.
The Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, addressed Aryeh Leib Gelman in a letter dated 17 Teves, 5711 (1951), expressing both respect and urgent concern regarding the state of education among immigrant children and youth in the Land of Israel. The Rebbe references the words of his father-in-law, the previous Lubavitcher Rebbe, who attested to Gelman's ability to rise above party lines when it comes to matters affecting the Jewish people as a whole.
The Rebbe's letter is characterized by a tone of earnest appeal and communal responsibility. He highlights the deteriorating situation of Jewish children's education, especially after their relocation to transit camps (ma'abarot), describing it as a crisis that endangers not only the current generation but also future generations. The Rebbe distinguishes between various types of communal problems, emphasizing that the issue of education is paramount because it concerns the very survival of the Jewish people, rooted in their religious and moral state.
The Rebbe urges Gelman to transcend political boundaries and use his influence and leadership to address this critical issue. He expresses disappointment at the lack of effective action from Gelman and those under his influence, particularly referencing a recent Mizrachi conference where the issue was discussed but not acted upon. The Rebbe calls upon Gelman to fulfill his duty in safeguarding the religious education of tens of thousands of Jewish children, warning of the grave danger of assimilation and loss of faith.
From the letter, it is clear that Aryeh Leib Gelman was recognized as a person of significant influence within the Jewish community, particularly in matters of public policy and education. The Rebbe’s respectful address and reliance on the testimony of the previous Rebbe indicate Gelman’s longstanding reputation and capacity for leadership beyond partisan interests. The correspondence reflects the Rebbe’s expectation that Gelman would act as a guardian of Jewish continuity, especially in times of crisis affecting the spiritual welfare of Jewish youth in Israel.