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Raskin, Eliyahu Yosef was a Jewish communal leader and active correspondent with the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson. His letters to the Rebbe reveal his involvement in communal affairs, charitable activities, and personal matters, seeking the Rebbe's guidance on issues ranging from community development to family concerns.
The letters exchanged between Raskin, Eliyahu Yosef and the Rebbe span a variety of topics, reflecting a relationship of respect and spiritual mentorship. The Rebbe addressed Raskin's personal and communal challenges, offering practical advice, blessings, and encouragement.
In a letter dated 5 Adar I, 5711, the Rebbe responded to Raskin's inquiry about relocating overseas. The Rebbe advised that, based on available information, South America might offer better opportunities for resettlement than the United States, particularly when the education of children was not a primary concern. The Rebbe concluded with heartfelt blessings for health and successful settlement.
Other letters, such as those from Elul 5711, show the Rebbe's appreciation for Raskin's participation in discreet charitable giving, emphasizing the high virtue of supporting others without publicity. The Rebbe encouraged Raskin to continue his involvement in tzedakah, Torah study, and communal Torah classes, linking these activities to spiritual vitality and attachment to the living G-d. The Rebbe also referenced the custom of reciting the chapter of Tehillim corresponding to one's age, urging Raskin to adopt this practice as he reached a new milestone in years.
Further correspondence reveals the Rebbe's guidance regarding communal leadership. Upon learning of Raskin's efforts to improve his community and fundraise for a mikveh, the Rebbe expressed joy and encouragement, while also advising caution about accepting a rabbinic position in another community (Ria de Zhaneira) due to its complexities. The Rebbe assured Raskin that he would mention him and his family in prayer at the resting place of the previous Rebbe, and sent additional materials to aid his communal work.
The Rebbe's letters also addressed personal concerns, such as Raskin's request for blessings for his son serving in the military. The Rebbe instructed that the son should be careful to put on tefillin daily, even if not in the morning, and prayed for his safety. Additionally, the Rebbe offered guidance for Raskin's role as a prayer leader during the High Holidays, emphasizing the importance of understanding the prayers and immersing in a mikveh before Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, in accordance with the wishes of the previous Rebbe.
Throughout their correspondence, the Rebbe consistently expressed appreciation for Raskin's charitable donations, which were delivered to the Lishkas Chashain, a fund supporting individuals and institutions discreetly. The Rebbe blessed Raskin and his household that the merit of their tzedakah should bring them a good and sweet year, health, and continued success in their endeavors.