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Shmarya Schneerson was a Chabad Chassid who corresponded with the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, during the early 1950s. The letters reveal his close connection to the Rebbe and his involvement in matters of family, spiritual observance, and communal responsibility.
The Rebbe’s letters to Shmarya Schneerson reflect a warm and personal relationship, marked by spiritual guidance and practical advice. In one letter, the Rebbe addresses Schneerson’s inquiry regarding his son’s upcoming Bar Mitzvah, which was scheduled near Yud Shevat, the yahrzeit of the Previous Rebbe. The Rebbe expresses surprise that Schneerson was not seeking an opportunity to visit the Ohel (the resting place of the Previous Rebbe) at this auspicious time, encouraging him to seize the occasion to connect with his spiritual roots and to refresh the inspiration he received during his time in yeshivah and among Anash (the Chassidic community). The Rebbe assures him that if visiting is not possible, the Bar Mitzvah should still be celebrated with true joy and in the spirit of a mitzvah, together with his family.
In another letter, the Rebbe expresses satisfaction upon hearing of Schneerson’s wife’s recovery and urges him to address an urgent matter regarding his sister’s conversion. The Rebbe emphasizes the spiritual significance of even a single day in such matters and encourages prompt and serious action, assuring that sincere effort brings results. The Rebbe also shares a list of suggestions for observing the yahrzeit of the Previous Rebbe, noting Schneerson’s merit of having been personally close to him and encouraging him to fulfill these practices.
The correspondence highlights several recurring themes: the importance of utilizing spiritual opportunities, the urgency and seriousness required in matters of Jewish law and conversion, and the value of maintaining a strong connection to Chassidic heritage and the Rebbeim. The Rebbe’s tone is both encouraging and directive, offering blessings for family well-being and spiritual success, and expressing hope to hear only good news from Schneerson and his family.