Weekly Letter: On The Topic of Hiskashrus

In preparation for Gimmel Tammuz, we share a letter from the Rebbe on the topic of hiskashrus. The letter, written originally in English, is from the archives of the Rebbe’s trusted secretary Rabbi Nissan Mindel.

By the Grace of G.-d
Rosh Chodesh Sivan, 5741
Brooklyn, N.Y.
C.R.
Oak Park, Mich. 48237
Blessing and Greeting:
Your letter reached me with considerable delay. As requested, I will remember you in prayer for the fulfillment of your heart’s desires for good.
With regard to the matter of hlskashrus and closeness, and the like, we have it on the authority of my father-in-law of saintly memory, who had occasion to answer similar questions, that the best way for Jews to get closer and be really united and unified, is by learning the same Torah (including the daily conduct in accordance with the Torah). This is also the answer to your question.
As for your other question, how to leave the yetzer hora behind, our Sages have already taught us that while G-d created the yetzer hora, He also created the Torah through which to temper and overcome it. Thus, the most effective way to overcoming the yetzer hora is not to enter Into any debate and discussion, but to devote all free time to Yiddishkeit, including broadening and deepening one’s knowledge of It, and above all, to conduct the daily life in accordance with the mitzvot, inasmuch as “action is the essential thing.”
At this time, with the approach of Shovuos, the Festival of Mattan Torah, I send you prayerful wishes for a joyous and inspiring Yom Tov, and to receive the Torah with joy and inwardness. May the joy and inspiration of this great Yom Tov be with you throughout every day of the year.
With blessing,