By the Grace of G‑d
18th of Sivan, 5720 [June 23, 1960]
Brooklyn, N.Y.

Greeting and Blessings:

After the long interval, I received your letter of the 18th of Iyar. I am sure you know that that is the day of Lag B'omer and that you fully realize its significance.

As for the contents of your letter and the problem of working with non-religious groups, in a way that such cooperation would not weaken the religious convictions of your own groups, etc., needless to say, it is impossible to make hard and firm rules about such cooperation that would apply to all instances. For a great deal depends on the atmosphere and circumstances of such meetings.

Click to enlarge
Click to enlarge

However, one general principle should be borne in mind, according to the teaching of our Sages in the Mishna (Pirke Ovois 1:12) "Hlllel says 'Be of the disciples of Aaron... loving the creatures and bringing them closer to the Torah.'" This means that one should always practice the love of fellow-Jews, even to such who have no other merit except that they are "creatures" of G‑d, as explained in the Tanya, Chapter 32. At the same time, this should be coupled with the precaution that it should be for the purpose of "bringing them closer to the Torah," and not making the Torah suit to their standards. In other words, it is necessary to make certain that while trying to influence others towards a fuller appreciation of the Torah and Mitzvoth, one should not be influenced in the other direction, nor make any concession. I can only suggest, therefore, that you keep this guiding principle in mind.

Precisely this year, being the 200th anniversary of the Histalkus of the Baal Shem Tov, which we observed on the first day of Shovuoth, has much to say on this question, since the Baal Shem Tov taught and personified what should be our aim and purpose in life. For he taught that Ahavas Yisrael means loving even the Jew who is at the other end of the world, which includes not only geographical distance but also spiritual distance. At the same time he demanded that the observance of the Torah and Mitzvoth should be with animation and inner inspiration and with every possible Hidur. I trust that among your Lubavitcher acquaintances in Montreal there are some who could help you get a deeper insight into the teachings of the Baal Shem Tov and how to apply them in daily life.

Click to enlarge
Click to enlarge

In connection with the above, I trust you will find the enclosed copy of my Shevuoth message stimulating and useful.

I hope that since writing to me last, you have practiced the injunction of our Sages that "All things of holiness should be on the ascendancy," also in your personal life, and there is nothing that stands in the way of will and determination.

Hoping to hear good news from you always,

With blessing,
M.Schneerson