As we begin to learn the laws given to us on Sinai – we introduce a letter of the Rebbe where he uses the scientific method to prove the validity of the Jewish religion and gives a comprehensive explanation of the diversity of religions in the world and the need for 613 mitzvos for Jews and 7 (Noahide) Laws for non-Jews.
In the week of the giving of the Torah on Sinai -we share a letter in which the Rebbe addresses the question of how the validity of the Revelation at Sinai could be proven,
and how our religion is different from other religions.
As we are now leaving Mitzrayim – being liberated from Egyptian slavery, we keep in mind the timeless message in the Rebbe’s letter: LIBERATION is not confined to the specific Exodus at the time of Egyptian slavery, but is rather, an ongoing effort of every Jew to free himself both from his internal limitations (inborn and acquired) and the external influences of the environment which enslave and limit him.
In his discussion with Hashem about his mission to go to Paro – Moshe wrestles with the question of why the wicked prosper and the righteous suffer. In our letter this week – the Rebbe addresses this question and the fact that the holocaust in our time has shaken the belief in G-d of some Jews.
In connection with the weeks now where we learn of the bitter slavery and suffering of the Yidden in Egypt – we share a letter of the Rebbe to one who is troubled by the fate of European Jewy in recent history, during the holocaust.
As we celebrate this week – Chof Daled Teves, yartzeit of the Alter Rebbe, first Chabad Rebbe, R’ Schneur Zalman – we share a letter of the Rebbe explaining one of the basic principles of the Chabad philosophy and way of life – that the head and the heart should govern and inspire the daily life of an individual in complete harmony.
In the week when we learn of the blessings that Yaakov gives his children before his passing, we share a letter of the Rebbe in which he explains the general and deeper meaning of the traditional blessing that we give to a person on his birthday.
In connection with the theme of our parsha, where Yaakov and his family are now relocating — going down to Mitzrayim to be reunited with Yosef and to settle there – we share a letter where the Rebbe advises a person asking about relocating his family to a place of a job offer.
The Rebbe’s letter underlines timely Chanukah lessons for our daily performance of mitzvos – namely, performing all mitzvos in a most perfect manner – mehadrin min hamehadrin – not being satisfied with our perfect performance of today.
In celebrating Chanukah – we celebrate the miracle of the pure undefiled olive oil which was miraculously found and used for the kindling of the menorah. Why is this so important?
In honor of YUD TES KISLEV, Rosh Hashanah l’Chasidus, we share a comprehensive letter in which the Rebbe explains the halachic reason for learning Chasidus.
In his letter to a father, the Rebbe suggests that the only way for his daughter to find true fulfillment in life is for her to attend a school that will prepare her for the role most suitable for her.
We share this week a strong letter which Rabbi Nissan Mindel wrote to the Editor of the Jewish Chronicle – a well-known and respected Jewish paper in England, in answer and protest to an article which they printed.
During this public election season – we share a letter of the Rebbe stating the policy of the Rebbe and of the Lubavitch movement regarding taking a public stand in elections to any office.
In his comprehensive letter to one finding himself in difficult circumstances, the Rebbe underlines the necessity to follow Hashem’s directive to Avraham – to break away from the environment and accustomed living in order to attain the “Promised Land.”
In connection with Noach and his descendants – the nations of the world – we share a letter of the Rebbe to a non-Jew who is requesting a blessing from the Rebbe.
As we start a new cycle of the weekly Torah reading and learning – beginning with the creation of the world – we share a basic letter of the Rebbe in answer to one questioning the origin of the world and the authenticity of the Divine Revelation at Sinai.
