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Leadership: Customized, Consistent, Friendly and Firm

The Rebbe advises consistent efforts with a balance of friendliness and firmness in education.

The Age of the Universe

How old is the universe?     Torah vs. Science!

The Rebbe explains that there is no need to discredit science in defense of Torah, but rather to seek the truth by balancing what we do an don’t know while keeping an open mind.

Annihilating Amalek

The commandment to eradicate Amalek may be hard to swallow at first glance, but the Rebbe explains in clear terms why it is not as distasteful as it seems.

Making an Eiruv to Allow Carrying

There are many issues relevant to the creation of an eiruv to allow people to carry on Shabbat. In this letter, the Rebbe presents his perspective on the issue making four relevant points on the topic.

Undervaluing Torah Education

There is a tendency for parents — even orthodox ones — to give secular studies a higher priority than than the study of Torah.  The Rebbe describes this mindset as “one of the basic ills of our Jewish community which has to be recognized and treated until cured.”

Awareness of Imperfection; Insufficient Recognition of Sacred Studies

The Rebbe reminds us that no one is perfect and we must work with what is available; and laments that fact that in many Jewish schools, sacred studies are under-respected and scholastic achievement in these subjects is not sufficiently encouraged.

Appropriate Respect for the Rebbe

In addressing hostile criticism, Nissan Mindel explains that the traditional respect of a Chossid for a Rebbe and the associated customs are appropriate, and points out that nothing you say will convince those who delight in criticism, so “spare yourself the aggravation.”

Chassidic Lifestyle is All-Inclusive

The Rebbe insists, that because there is no true reality other than G-d, and Divine Providence extends to every single detail in existence, everything that exists is relevant and Chassidic lifestyle does not exclude any part of the world from its sphere of interest.

Historic Jewish Personalities in Movies

The desire to portray inspiring historical figures in a popular medium is commendable, however the Rebbe advises that – particularly with audiovisual productions – the stakes are too high, and the temptation should be resisted.

When the Prognosis is Bad

A bad prognosis from a doctor can be hear-breaking, but the Rebbe explains why it is both sensible and productive to maintain strong faith in healing, and a spirited will to live.