Igrot Kodesh · Letter 5058 — Grief & Loss
Volume 14 · Letter 315
B"H
21 Teves* 5717
Brooklyn, New York
To the Nshei U'Bnos Chabad* association,
chapter of ... (see note 1), may Hashem grant you long life,
Blessings and greetings,
On the occasion of the hilula*, the anniversary of the passing of my father-in-law, the Rebbe*, of blessed memory, this coming Yud Shevat* (10 Shevat), I wish to point out to the chapters of Nshei U'Bnos Chabad in general, and to each of the participants in particular, that it is fitting to prepare for this date.
This preparation must be in accordance with the will of the one whose hilula we observe. The activities of Nshei U'Bnos Chabad in particular, and of Jewish women in general, must accordingly be strengthened and developed, in everything pertaining to the mitzvos* and the fear of Heaven (yiras Shamayim*). This is the greatest pleasure, the highest satisfaction that one can give to his neshamah*.
At the time, after the passing of his father, the Rebbe Rashab*, of blessed memory, he himself wrote (see note 2) that "the shepherds of Israel do not abandon their flock" — the leaders of Israel and the spiritual guides do not separate themselves, even after their passing, from those whom they lead and whose needs they fulfill.
This year, the day of the hilula falls on Shabbos* Parshas Beshalach*, Shabbos Shirah* (see note 3). You will therefore find enclosed a sichah* (see note 4), presenting a narrative on this subject, related by the one whose hilula we observe.
I hope that the right explanations and the appropriate words will be found to explain its significance to all the participants.
Without doubt, this will contribute to strengthening and developing your activity in all areas. May Hashem grant that you meet with success.
With the wish that you give me good tidings of all that has been said, as well as of your personal accomplishments and those of the members of your family,
Notes
(1) This letter was addressed to all chapters.
(2) See the Igros Kodesh* of the previous Rebbe, vol. 1, letter no. 72.
(3) The Shabbos of the Song at the Sea.
(4) That of Acharon Shel Pesach* 5698 (1938), appearing in the Sefer HaSichos* 5698, from page 277 onward.