Jews in the world today face a myriad of issues. Is it still possible, or simple, to be a practicing Jew? The Avner Institute would like to present a first-time released letter to a Jew in Europe in which the Rebbe derives from the story of Chanukah a powerful message on overcoming daily challenges.
“Chanukah Live” was an event involving thousands of Jews who would join together with the Rebbe at “770,” Chabad headquarters. The Rebbe Archive would like to present two magnificent photos from “Chanukah Live” 1991, where holiday celebrations in New York, Paris, Moscow, Melbourne, Hong Kong and Jerusalem were united by satellite hookup. In the first photo you can see the Rebbe watching the menorah lighting in New York with Rabbi Shmuel Butman and mayor David Dinkins.
Good Shabbos
Menachem
By the Grace of G-d
22nd of Kislev 5732
Brooklyn, NY
Greeting and Blessing:
I received your letter and, as requested, I will remember you in prayer when visiting the holy resting place of my father-in-law of saintly memory.
It is purely unnecessary for me to emphasize to you that the daily conduct in accordance with the Torah and mitzvoth is the channel and vessel to receive G-d’s blessings. Therefore, every additional effort in this direction brings with it additional Divine blessings in all one’s needs.
If it sometimes appears difficult to follow the Jewish way of life in a world under circumstances which are not conducive to it, the difficulty is imaginary than real, and when there is a will and determination, all obstacles can be overcome. This is also the message of Chanukah, which we are soon to celebrate, which teaches us that with selfless determination even a small and weak minority can overcome a strong and large minority, just as a small light dispels a lot of darkness. I trust you will spread the light of the Torah and mitzvoth all around you and in a growing measure, which is the essential lesson of the mitzvah of Chanukah lights which we kindle in increasing numbers each night of Chanukah.
Hoping to hear good news from you,
With blessing,
[signature]
