“It is obviously the duty of every Jew to do all he can to spread and strengthen all matters of Torah, Toras Chaim and mitzvoth, by which Jews live. And we have the assurance that ‘Words coming from the heart penetrate the heart and are eventually effective,’ especially when coupled with a living example.”
-The Rebbe
Strange new virus. Deaths, quarantines — COVID-19 has wreaked worldwide panic and disruption. How do we combat an unseen enemy? The Avner Institute presents the Rebbe’s advice, practical and spiritual, on bolstering the immune system – strict Torah observance, and faith in the Ultimate Physician who heals and alleviates even the most perplexing of illnesses. With special thanks to The Mindel Archives.
“Real and true health”
Should smoking be permitted? To the Rebbe, the issues are both medical – and theological.
By the Grace of G-d
21 Kislev 5747
Brooklyn, NY
Mr. —–
London, NW4, England
Greeting and Blessing:
This is to acknowledge receipt of your letter with the enclosures, on the matter of smoking.
Needless to say, this is basically a medical problem, and insofar as Rabbonim are concerned, they can only say that a Jew is obligated by the Torah to follow medical advice in each particular situation. But of course, this is clearly stated in the Shulchan Aruch [Code of Jewish Law], which needs no reinforcement, as this is well known.
Concerning the matter of smoking per say, you surely know that there are many leading Rabbonim in various parts of the world who are smokers, and there are no doubt a number of such Rabbonim also in your city, with whom you can discuss the matter personally at length.
Inasmuch as everything is by hashgocho protis [Divine Providence], and you have written to me on this matter, I see it as an indication that I should take this opportunity to encourage you in your interest and desire to help fellow Jews in matters of health. There is surely no need to emphasize to you at length that there is much you can do in this direction by encouraging fellow Jews to increase in all matters that are related to the real and true health of a Jew, namely the Torah and mitzvoth, of which it is written, “These are our life and the length of our days.” And judging by your writing and background, there is surely no need to elaborate on it that this is the area of the greatest pikuach nefesh [life-saver] for Jews everywhere and at all times.
It is obviously the duty of every Jew to do all he can to spread and strengthen all matters of Torah, Toras Chaim and mitzvoth, by which Jews live. And we have the assurance that “Words coming from the heart penetrate the heart and are eventually effective,” especially when coupled with a living example.
The above is also one of the most essential messages of Chanukah and the Chanukah Lights, which are kindled in growing measure and intensity from day to day, symbolizing ner mitzvah v’Torah or [flame of good deeds and light of Torah], and all G-d’s blessings that go with it.
Wishing your hatzlocho [success] in all above, and a bright and inspiring Chanukah, to illuminate and permeate all days ahead throughout the year.
With blessing,
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“Strong sense of belief and trust”
To a physician stymied by a patient’s condition, the Rebbe offers multiple forms of “alternative medicine.”
By the Grace of G-d
28 Nissan 5743
Brooklyn, NY
Dr. —-
Charleston, S.C. 29401
Greeting and Blessing:
Your letter with enclosures reached me with some delay. I appreciate your taking the trouble to acquaint me with the condition of your patient H.A. This was particularly welcome in view of the fact that I have received some confusing reports about his condition from other sources.
Needless to say, medical science is not my special field, and I would not presume to offer any suggestions in a case which has been under your treatment. However, inasmuch as you do invite me to make some suggestions as to a possible approach that has not been attempted I would like to suggest, on the basis of what I have heard about similar cases, that perhaps it is advisable to try the approach of such practitioners as a naturopath or osteopath and the like, who have often been successful in treating patients with emphasis on natural healing of the human organism. I do not know exactly what methods were used, but I trust you would look into this approach, all the more so since there is no risk involved.
Another consideration may be the use — if it has not been tried already — of a drug or drugs of the cortisone family.
I was pleased to note in your letter that the patient has a strong sense of belief and trust in G-d. I am confident that you are encouraging and strengthening him in this direction since, though a “must” for its own sake, it also has a considerable therapeutic value, as you well know.
I would, of course, be very gratified to know what your reaction is to all above which, needless to say, has to be, and will surely be, quite candid.
With esteem and blessing,
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