Chassidus explains that the number ten represents a complete cycle. The number three is likewise significant because when something occurs three times it establishes a state of chazakah — a confirmation of accomplishment. It is with this sense of completed accomplishment that we go to press with Volume 30 of Sichos In English. We thank the Almighty for having had the opportunity to reach this important milestone and we reaffirm our commitment to go on from strength to strength with the publication of more volumes of Chassidic philosophy for the English speaking/reading world.

Volume 30 covers the period from the 13th of Shvat, 5746 through the 26th day of Nissan, 5746 (interestingly, on both days the Rebbe spoke to large groups at Yechidus). This volume includes the English translations of the discourses of the Lubavitcher Rebbe Shlita, delivered at all the Farbrengens during this time period, and yechidus as well as letters and special essays on important subjects.

The free-style translations of the Sichos are structured to appeal to the English-speaking reader who has some basic familiarity with the teachings of Chassidus. The original contexts of the Sichos are generally maintained, and the form and style in which they were said is adhered to. Only slight adaptations or omissions have been permitted, when they facilitate the smooth flow of the translation. As always, great effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the translations; however, they carry no official authorization. As in all works of this nature the possibility of inadvertent error exists, for which we humbly apologize.

During the Farbrengen of Shabbos Mishpatim the Rebbe acknowledged the special program being held that week for Jewish women. The Essay “Jewish womanhood: Education — Service — Sanctity” evolved from the concepts discussed by the Rebbe in that Farbrengen: the role of Jewish women in Jewish life and true Torah attitude towards Jewish women. The Rebbe also emphasized that men must recognize, appreciate and support the good activities of Jewish women.

The second cycle of study of Rambam — Mishnah Torah was concluded during the time and the Rebbe spoke of the importance of the Grand Siyum celebration as well as the renewed vigor necessary to continue the growth of the study of Rambam.

The Mitzvah of extending a interest-free loan to a fellow Jew was discussed by the Rebbe and he suggested to the children of Tzivos Hashem that they should be ready to lend a fellow Jew whatever he/she may need.

Two letters of the Rebbe Shlita are also included in the volume.

Reaching out to the nations of the world to educate mankind was discussed by the Rebbe during this year and in several Sichos he emphasized the importance of the Seven Noachide Laws for the world. The essay “Educating Mankind” gives us a comprehensive understanding of our role in bringing the Seven Noachide Laws to the gentile world.

The 13th of Nissan this year marked the 120th anniversary of the yahrzeit of the Tzemach Tzedek and the Rebbe explained the relationship between the Tzemach Tzedek and the Rambam whose birthday is on the following day, the 14th of Nissan.

In this volume we are including the essay “Rights” or Ills that was edited by the Rebbe Shlita. It is based on the Sichah of Purim 5746 and discusses the problems society faces in dealing with individuals who express homosexual leanings. The Rebbe Shlita explains the tragedy of their “sickness,” how society should approach these people and how they should be helped.

Our fervent hope is to make the light of Torah accessible to a much wider circle of Jewish readers, to disseminate the wellsprings of Chassidus and to bring new inspiration and spiritual vitality into the daily lives of English-speaking Jews. The accomplishment of this goal will be our greatest satisfaction and reward.

Sichos In English

28th Day of Sivan, 5748