Harnstein - Devorah Leah

הארנשטיין - דבורה לאה

Devorah Leah Harnstein (descendant of Chabad lineage)

Devorah Leah Harnstein was a correspondent of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, and a descendant of prominent Chabad families. Her correspondence with the Rebbe reflects her connection to the spiritual legacy of her mother, Rebbetzin Sheina Brocha (Dulitzky), daughter of Rabbi Meir Yitzchak of Ovruch, himself a son of the Tzemach Tzedek.

Correspondence with the Rebbe

The Rebbe’s letter to Devorah Leah Harnstein, dated 8 Teves 5715 (1954), responds warmly to her sharing of personal memories regarding her late mother’s spiritual character and manner of prayer. The Rebbe emphasizes the profound value of memory and the spiritual inheritance passed down through generations, especially among the descendants of individuals distinguished by both spiritual depth and practical accomplishment. He encourages Mrs. Harnstein to channel the inspiration from these memories into positive action, highlighting the Torah’s perspective that while thought is powerful, “action is primary.”

The Rebbe further underscores the importance of even seemingly small deeds, quoting the Baal Shem Tov that a soul may descend to this world for seventy or eighty years just to do a single favor for another Jew, particularly in matters of spirituality. He assures Mrs. Harnstein that her efforts and recollections serve not only her own spiritual fulfillment but also elevate the souls of her ancestors.

The tone of the letter is encouraging and nurturing, blending personal warmth with spiritual guidance. The Rebbe also references the keen interest of the Previous Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchak Schneersohn, in family history and the preservation of memories, urging Mrs. Harnstein to continue this practice for the benefit of future generations.

Shiurim in this topic
3176. Memory, Influence, and the Power of Small Deeds זיכרון, השפעה, וכוח המעשים הקטנים
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9211. Condolence Letter on the Passing of Shlomo HaKohen and the Meaning of Traditional Comfort מכתב תנחומים על פטירת שלמה הכהן ומשמעות הנחמה המסורתית
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9252. The Deeper Meaning of Chanukah, Light, and Joy for Women המשמעות העמוקה של חנוכה, אור, ושמחה לנשים
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9276. Healing, Tu BiShvat, and the Human as a Microcosm רפואה, ט"ו בשבט, והאדם כעולם קטן
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