On Educating Small Children

By the Grace of G‑d
25th of Adar, 5723 [March 21, 1963]
Brooklyn, N.Y.

Greeting and Blessing:

After not having heard from you for a long time, I received your letter of the 12th of Adar [March 8]. As requested, I will remember you in prayer when visiting the holy resting place of my father-in-law of saintly memory in regard to all the matters you write about.

May the Zechus [merit] of your work in Chinuch Al Taharas Hakodesh [Torah education] stand you and yours in good stead, especially remembering the emphasis which the Baal Shem Tov [the founder of Chassidism] had placed on it. For, as you surely know, before he revealed himself [to the general public as a mystic and leader], he was an assistant teacher in a Cheder [small Jewish school], and personally devoted himself to the education of very small children. Similarly, the Old Rebbe [Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi, the first Chabad Rebbe] and his successors placed Chinuch [education] above everything else.

I trust that the festival of Purim was celebrated in a suitable way, and that the inspiration was shared by many, especially your students.

Hoping to hear good news from you

With blessing

By [signed by the secretary]