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Shmuel Fabelzner was an individual who corresponded with the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, seeking guidance on matters of personal spiritual growth and family life, as evidenced by the Rebbe’s detailed responses to his letters.
The letters between Shmuel Fabelzner and the Rebbe reveal a relationship characterized by personal mentorship and spiritual encouragement. In one notable letter dated the 23rd of Iyar, 5712 (1952), the Rebbe responds to Fabelzner’s report that he is fulfilling the Rebbe’s instructions regarding regular Torah study and giving tzedakah (charity), but continues to struggle with achieving true shalom bayis (peace in the home).
The Rebbe acknowledges Fabelzner’s efforts and improvement in external aspects of family harmony, but addresses the ongoing internal challenges. He explains that obstacles in achieving shalom bayis are to be expected, and that these difficulties indicate the central importance of this area in Fabelzner’s spiritual refinement. Drawing from the teachings of the Arizal and Chassidus, the Rebbe elaborates on the concept of souls returning in new incarnations (gilgul) to rectify shortcomings in the fulfillment of the 613 mitzvos. He emphasizes that the greatest resistance from the yetzer hara (evil inclination) is found specifically in those areas where rectification is most needed.
The Rebbe urges Fabelzner to redouble his efforts in pursuing peace at home, even when it requires personal concessions, clarifying that such concessions are appropriate as long as they do not compromise matters of Torah and mitzvos. He cites the sages’ teaching that a woman’s tears are ever-present and that blessings come to a person through his wife, underscoring the spiritual significance of harmonious family relationships.