What is the path to Divine wisdom? Torah study, not only the revealed but the hidden. It is not only a commandment, but a priority—and an attainable goal for everyone, regardless of individual intellect and ability. The Avner Institute presents two letters: one to a student considering leaving yeshiva; the other emphasizing Chassidism as both a vital companion to Bible study and the cornerstone of Jewish identity.
In loving memory of Hadassah Lebovic A”h
“Long for some and short for others”
By the Grace of G-d
25 Elul 5736
Brooklyn, NY
Mrs.
Viale
44100 Ferrara, Italy
Blessing and Greeting:
I received your letter of May 9, 1976, in which you ask if it would be proper for you, not being religious, to read Tanya and similar books. I presume you mean not just reading but studying it in depth.
No doubt you know that one of the basics of Judaism is, as our Sages formulated it, that “every Jew has a share in the World to Come, as it is written: ‘(being) a branch of My planting, the work of My hands, to be glorified.’” The difference is only in regard to the share, whether it be large or small, and whether one attains it with greater or lesser effort. But our Torah, called Toras Chayim (because it is both our guide in this life and the source of everlasting life), makes it clear that every Jew, man or woman, has a share in the World to Come.
The Tanya—as the author states in the title-page—is based on the verse, “The thing is near unto you—in your mouth and in your heart, to do it” (i.e., in speech, thought and action). But he immediately cautions that “the road is a long and a short one,” meaning that it may be long for some and short for others, but everyone will get there sooner or later.
Very Near
In light of this preface, needless to say, the Tanya pertains and relates to every Jew and, moreover, it is “near” (comprehensible) and indeed highly conducive to actual implementation in the daily life.
However, G-d has given everyone free choice of action, and it is His desire that the choice be made in the right direction out of one’s own free will. Yet, while presenting this freedom of choice, G-d gives the assurance that “it is near to you,” not only in word and thought, but also in actual deed. This is what the author explains in his book, where he also provides guidelines to the desired goal. He also explains why it is certain that every Jew will attain it, sooner or later, except that for one the road may be longer, and for another—shorter.
Inasmuch as you state in your letter that you are a professor of pedagogic sciences, it is confidently hoped that you will study the Tanya, without prejudice, and then you will see the truth of the author’s ideas. Thus, you will find it rewarding and beneficial not only for yourself, but—being a teacher and educator—you will want to share it with others. This is an additional factor that will contribute to the success of your said study, which will help “shorten the road.”
Timely Matter
I would like to add a further point. Where one has the opportunity and ability to influence others in the right direction, the time element is of the essence. For, with regard to one’s self, a person may think that he will make up tomorrow what he misses today; but with regard to another person, one cannot be sure that the other person may be reached tomorrow, or that he will be as receptive tomorrow as today.
With reference to a beracha [blessing], it is customary to remember one in prayer by mentioning the full Hebrew name together with the mother’s Hebrew name. If you will let me know these names, I will remember you in prayer for G-d’s blessing in all your needs.
At this time before Rosh Hashanah, I extend to you and yours best wishes for a happy and pleasant year, materially and spiritually.
With blessing,
[signature]
By the Grace of G-d
Rosh Chodesh Adar II 5738
Brooklyn, NY
Mr.
London, N.16 6PS
England
Greeting and Blessing:
I am in receipt of your letter of the 16th of Shevat, which reached me with delay, as well as your previous correspondence. As requested, I will remember you in prayer for the fulfillment of your heart’s desires for good in all the matters about which you write.
With regard to your question whether you should continue your apprenticeship or you should attend yeshiva, you do not write all the details that would be necessary to know before advice can be given. However, in general, it is hardly practical from any standpoint to make a change in the middle of the school year. At any rate, you should discuss the matter with a practicing Rov in your neighborhood, to whom you can explain all the details and factors, as in the case of any sha’ala [question], and he will give you the proper advice.
It is customary in such a situation to check the mezuzah in your room, and your tefillin, if this has not been done within the past twelve months.
In any event, even if you are under apprenticeship, you surely know about the need to have regular appointed times for Torah study, and that one should advance steadily in all matters of Torah and mitzvoth in accordance with this principle of ma’alin b’kdesh [advancement in holiness].
Wishing you a joyous and inspiring Purim,
With blessing,
[signature]
To receive email in your inbox: [email protected]
