To date there are 30 volumes of the Rebbe’s correspondence (Igros Kodesh) that have been published. In the Rebbe's correspondence one sees his scholarship, concern for every individual, and the communal projects which he pioneered. This podcast is a recording from our daily studies in these letters.
The Rebbe directs him to the teaching of the Tchernerblier Rebbe (and in Hayom Yom, 23 Sivan) to discern between Yetzer Tov and Yetzer Hara. He adds that not only is it permitted, but it is an obligation to learn Tanya with others, as studying Chassidus strengthens Torah observance and mitzvos. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5519
The Rebbe encourages increased activity in spreading Chassidus, citing the Baal Shem Tov's letter and teaching that whatever one sees or hears serves as guidance in serving Hashem. This is an urgent responsibility, especially for those aware of these teachings. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5518
The Rebbe blesses them to increase in both material and spiritual charity, influencing their surroundings in Torah and mitzvos. He expresses hope that the recent talk about the special role and responsibility of Chabad women will inspire practical action. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5517
The Rebbe advises to shift focus entirely to positive matters, especially words of Torah, as even a little light dispels much darkness. He suggests immersion in the mikvah (Tvilas Ezra), daily charity before prayer, and regular study of Chumash, Tehillim, and Tanya as established by the Previous Rebbe, all without making a vow. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5516
The Rebbe advises to shift focus entirely to positive matters, especially words of Torah, as even a little light dispels much darkness. He suggests daily charity before prayer and regular study of Chumash, Tehillim, and Tanya as established by the Previous Rebbe, all without making a vow. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5516
The Rebbe advises that decisions about textbooks and pronunciation depend on local standards and should follow the practices of G-d-fearing communities in the area. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5515
The Rebbe encourages consistent Chassidus study with inner commitment, recalls a story of self-sacrifice for one Jew's return, and urges the recipient to engage in spreading Chassidus, which will bring Hashem's blessings. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5514
The Rebbe emphasizes the importance of wearing a sheitel for a young couple building a home in Kfar Chabad, noting its communal significance. He advises ensuring agreement before the wedding, suggesting the school principal assist in this matter. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5513
The Rebbe urges increased mivtzoim, especially tefillin and mezuzos, as practical mitzvos save souls. He suggests collecting unused seforim and replacing them with needed ones, emphasizing the great benefit and Hashem's blessings. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5510
The Rebbe clarifies that the school's educational goal is well-defined in his talks, emphasizing pure holiness, especially in Eretz Yisrael; however, this must be pursued in an orderly manner, suited to each stage, as explained by Rambam. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5512
The Rebbe sends warm greetings and blessings to R' Yeshaya Uri, expressing appreciation for his positive influence. He explains, through the metaphor of shechita, the spiritual task of transforming the animal soul into a vessel for holiness, and blesses him with continued success, health, and joy. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5511
The Rebbe expresses surprise at the lack of discussion on critical matters like housing and summer camps in Kfar Chabad. He criticizes the passive approach to new residents and urges a fundamental shift toward expansion and economic improvement for the village's physical and spiritual success. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5509
The Rebbe acknowledges the Beit Din's letter and blesses their role in increasing peace among Jews, emphasizing that true blessing follows peace. He highlights the Beit Din's vital mission as outlined in Torah sources and urges each person, especially those connected to Aharon, to actively pursue peace among all types within the Jewish people. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5508
The Rebbe acknowledges receipt of the Beit Din's letter and blesses their efforts to bring peace, the true mission of a Beit Din. He encourages the continued publication of Torah works, noting that sincere will and dedication can overcome all obstacles, and Torah must not remain like idle talk. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5508
The Rebbe explains that when no better alternatives exist, it's necessary to work with those available—even if they are significantly lacking—since reducing activity is not a solution but may worsen the situation. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5507
The Rebbe affirms the writer's acceptance to follow guidance, emphasizing dedication to Torah study and mitzvah observance without excuses. He highlights the responsibility rooted in the writer's lineage and the true sign of success: positively influencing peers in Torah, service, and kindness. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5506
The Rebbe advises choosing a career in early childhood education, emphasizing its importance and spiritual merit. He discourages her father's potential job in the navy and assures that Hashem will provide sustenance. Strengthening one's conduct as a Jewish woman brings further blessings. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5505
The Rebbe advises continuing Torah study during the summer, noting its power to bring blessing and healing. He encourages daily Tehillim, checking mezuzot, and reassures that since hatavat chalom was recited, the past dream is good and needs no further thought. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5504
The Rebbe answers two classic questions: the Nazir is called a sinner despite his restraint, as explained in Tosafot (Ta'anit 11a); and “empty” Jews being full of mitzvot refers to their status relative to others, not in absolute terms. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5503
The Rebbe expresses surprise at the doubt raised, noting that precedent clearly supports correcting from a ה"א to an א"לף, and references sources affirming this ruling. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5502
The Rebbe emphasizes that blessings received through prayers at the Ohel should inspire deeper commitment to the Rebbe's teachings and spreading them, especially for those with influence. He also requests clarification on a Sefer Torah alteration and encourages reporting on efforts to spread Chassidus during Shavuos. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5501
The Rebbe stresses scheduling Torah study alongside proper care for physical health, as both are essential in serving Hashem. He cautions against excessive use of alcohol at farbrengens, emphasizing discipline, and encourages adherence to yeshiva learning schedules. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5500
The Rebbe counters a doctor's discouraging prognosis, citing the Tzemach Tzedek that doctors are given permission only to heal, not to dishearten. He encourages faith in Hashem and practical steps, including diet. He praises the wife's uplifting Torah talk as proof that spiritual growth brings physical well-being. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5499
In response to a question about whom to mention first in Harachaman, the Rebbe refers to the Talmud in Horayot, which discusses priority in saving lives—offering guidance for the proper sequence in blessings. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5498
The Rebbe expresses joy at signs of business improvement, blessing continued growth in livelihood to ease and enhance joyful service of Hashem—especially meaningful before Shavuos, when physical blessings are part of the Divine “wedding.” He clarifies that his responses aim to guide, not merely reflect expectations. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5497
The Rebbe blesses the Bar Mitzvah boy to grow in Torah, Chassidus, and mitzvah observance, becoming a Chassid, yerei Shamayim, and lamdan. He encourages continued success in teaching Chassidus publicly and reflects on the depth of Torah revealed at Matan Torah. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5496
The Rebbe urges coordination with the Montreal Yeshiva in establishing the camp, emphasizing its prior encouragement and the importance of involving its students. He blesses the effort to bring children Torah and mitzvot illuminated with Chassidus. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5495
The Rebbe supports continuing the recommended treatment and suggests that boosting the child's self-confidence—such as letting him lead or guide others—may greatly help his emotional state. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5494
The Rebbe advises discussing with Chabad leadership the possibility of working within Chabad institutions before accepting a new job offer, encouraging a life rooted in Chabad with outreach beyond. He concludes with a blessing for receiving the Torah with joy and inwardness. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5493
The Rebbe clarifies that righteous non-Jews have souls from the good in Kelipat Noga, not from complete impurity, and cites sources on converts. He advises that if one has an older brother, he should request full permission before pursuing a match. He concludes with encouragement to maintain daily study in Chumash, Tehillim, and Tanya. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5492
The Rebbe discusses halachic views on פדיון פטר חמור, its timing, precedence over עריפה, and whether coercion applies—concluding with a teaching on giving gifts to a groom as a sign of spiritual renewal. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/010/5491
The Rebbe expresses satisfaction that the writer guides his group not only in study but also in Yirat Shamayim and Chassidut, emphasizing their deep connection. He highlights the special responsibility and opportunity of influencing others in the Holy Land, noting that one must not only be inspired but also inspire others. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/009/5490
The Rebbe expresses surprise at the custom of voluntary fasting, urging instead the Baal Shem Tov's approach of serving Hashem with health and joy. He recommends replacing fasts with refraining from idle talk or indulgent foods, following the advice of the Rebbe Maharash, and suggests a hatarat neder if the practice was repeated. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/009/5489
The Rebbe regrets the maamarim were sent to Eretz Yisrael instead of to him and suggests finding someone knowledgeable locally. He notes Chassidim value all maamarim equally, regardless of author or print status, though he personally questions this approach. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/009/5488
The Rebbe explains that refraining from Torah study due to illness is like refusing medicine because one is sick. Torah itself brings healing, and one must persist in learning—at least the daily portions of Chumash, Tehillim, and Tanya. The Rebbe encourages optimism in recovery and expresses hope for good news, both spiritually and physically. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/009/5487
The Rebbe advises a young yeshiva student not to become preoccupied with endless questions, as they often distract from true Torah study. Emphasis is placed on diligent learning with humility and acceptance (na'aseh v'nishma), rather than constant intellectual challenge-seeking. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/009/5486
The Rebbe encourages the writer to include reports on Torah and outreach activities, not only personal matters, emphasizing the importance of staying focused on spreading Yiddishkeit even during difficulties. He supports the move to a better home and offers a practical solution for financing it, with blessings for success. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/009/5485
The Rebbe acknowledges the summer learning arrangements and increased enrollment, though notes it's still insufficient given the urgent need. He approves the students' Lag BaOmer trip to Meron and urges continued follow-up with those inspired there, emphasizing the ongoing responsibility in spreading Yiddishkeit. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/009/5484
The Rebbe rules it's preferable to hire a non-Jewish teacher for secular studies than a Jewish woman who is not observant, to avoid negative influence. He awaits good news from Lag BaOmer activities and encourages preparing properly for Shavuos. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/009/5483
The Rebbe advises arranging a heter iska to avoid halachic doubt in a loan, discourages skipping parts of davening, and emphasizes the spiritual responsibility when choosing to move to Eretz Yisrael. He encourages extra care in Torah and mitzvos, especially when entering the “palace of the King.” https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/009/5482
The Rebbe sends blessings for the recovery of Dr. Yosef Alter (Tomarkin), emphasizing the eternal impact of his time in Tomchei Temimim. He encourages strengthening both physical and spiritual health, highlighting the healing power of Torah, teshuvah, and serving Hashem with joy, especially as Shavuos approaches. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/009/5481
The Rebbe questions the necessity of reprinting the Maamar Patach Eliyahu with the Rebbe Rashab's notes, given the abundance of recent Chassidus publications. Nonetheless, if it's a communal request and carefully edited, he permits it—provided it doesn't disrupt the yeshiva schedule. He also encourages greater diligence in learning and influencing peers. https://www.torahrecordings.com/rebbe/igroskodesh/015/009/5480