By the Grace of G‑d
11th of Nissan, 5720 [April 8, 1960]
Brooklyn, N.Y.

Mr. Chaim Yakov [Jacques] Lipchitz
168 Warburton Ave.
Hastings-on-Hudson, N.Y.

Greeting and Blessing:

I received your letter of the 27th of March, with the enclosure.

You write that there must be an outlet for special talents, including that of the art of sculpture, among Jews, and you mention the eruption of such outlets in recent generations.

It is true, of course, that such talents seek expression, but the Shulchan Aruch provides ample room for such expression, without infringement of the Torah. You, yourself, are an example of it, at any rate as far as those sculptures or reproductions of your work which I have seen. It is the duty of the Jew to recognize that his creativity and special talents were bestowed upon him by G‑d. Whether or not he harmonizes such talents with the Torah, depends upon the artist himself. The same applies to every field of human endeavor, not only art, but also science. A case in point is the field of medical science, which a priori should be used exclusively for the benefit of humanity. Yet, we have seen to what depth of degradation German doctors sank during the period of German supremacy in recent years, when German doctors used their medical skill and science to devise means of torture and destruction for innocent victims, men, women and children.

Returning to the question of sculpture, or other art, the crucial point is that of approach and attitude. If there is a recognition that such talent is a gift from G‑d, Who, together with this gift, has given the instructions, then surely the proper medium of expression will be found that is consonant with the Torah, and is therefore good, both for the artist as well as for humanity at large. Having touched upon this matter personally when you were here, I am sure I need not further elaborate on it.

Approaching the Festival of Pesach, I send you and your family my prayerful wishes that the Festival of Our Freedom bring you and yours true freedom from anxiety material and spiritual, and from anything which might distract from serving G‑d wholeheartedly and with joy.

Wishing you and yours a kosher and happy Pesach, and hoping to hear good news from you always,

With blessing,

M. Schneerson

Your kind donation, having come at this time when our Maos Chittim (Passover relief) Fund is especially active, it was ear-marked for this cause, and may it stand you and yours in good stead.

Enclosed is a copy of my Passover message, which I am sure will be of interest to you, especially in the light of our discussion.