An explanation of the qualities symbolized by oil

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Instructions regarding the publication of chassidic texts in Germany

No. 318

This letter was addressed to R. Nachum Shemaryahu Sossonkin, at that time, one of the leading members of the group of Lubavitch chassidim who had managed to escape Russia and were presently in Paris.

B"H, 12 Teves, 5708

Greetings and blessings,

I received your letter acknowledging the receipt of the texts for the collective [of chassidim presently located in France]. As per your suggestion, we have sent another three copies of the [Rebbe's] Memoirs to distribute among the other dwellings. Certainly you will acknowledge their receipt.

Surely you will arrange [the division of] the texts among the different groups in a manner that many will be able to use them, as I said when I was in Paris. I will be happy to hear that you were also able to expand the circle of students outward, reaching the ashan[266] in the outer reaches which can be elevated only through spreading the wellsprings [of Chassidus].[267]

Some clarification is necessary, for Tanna D'bei Eliyahu Rabbah, ch. 21, interprets the verse (Yirmeyahu 5:1) "Wander through the outskirts of Jerusalem" as referring to synagogues and houses of study. Perhaps [the term chutzah, "outskirts,"] must be interpreted in every place according to its context. This is not the place for further discussion of this matter.

Enclosed is a letter to Mrs. Golenbovitch, for in her letter, she indicated your address. I ask forgiveness for the trouble.

With wishes for everlasting good in all matters and with greetings,

Rabbi Menachem Schneerson

Enclosed is the kuntreis for Yud-Tes Kislev.

   

Notes:

266. (Back to text) [The term ashan is an acronym for the Hebrew words olam shanah nefesh, which figuratively translate as "place, time, and soul," i.e., the different elements of our frame of existence. Man's mission is to elevate the G-dly sparks within these elements and connect them to their source.]

267. (Back to text) See Sotah 44a which interprets the verse (Mishlei 24:27) "Prepare your work outside" as referring to [the study of] Scripture (Tanach). It is possible to explain the connection, because [the influence generated by the study of] Scripture is drawn down until the realm of Asiyah.

An explanation of the qualities symbolized by oil

Table of contents

Search this book:

Instructions regarding the publication of chassidic texts in Germany