Igrot Kodesh · Letter 515 — Method for Teaching Chassidus

By the grace of Hashem,

13 Menachem Av* 5709,

To Mr. Baruch Levitin[1],

I greet you and bless you,

I have duly received your letter, dated after Tisha B'Av*. As you know, this period is difficult and we hope that all will go well soon.

In reply to your question on how to teach Chassidus*: I have no doubt that you have consulted the farbrengens*[2] on this subject. It is stated there:

'The method of Chabad* Chassidus* for drawing Jews closer: to explain the principles of faith in Hashem in clear and accessible language. Begin with simple elements and progress toward more complex ones. Advance step by step, without haste. The goal is to bring a divine light into the daily life of man.'

My personal method, based on what my father-in-law, the Rebbe* Shlita*, taught me, is to begin with the subject closest to the person, that which speaks to him directly. The idea is to show him that every event in the world contains a divine message for him and for the service of Hashem.

Afterward, one can move on to the teachings of Chassidus* regarding the nature of the human soul, the relationship between man and Hashem, and the manner in which the Mitzvos* serve as instruments for drawing man closer to Hashem.

It is also important to address practical questions, such as: how to keep one's thoughts on Hashem throughout the day, how to recite prayers with concentration, and how to transform ordinary moments into acts of divine service.

Wishing you all the best and with my blessings,

M. Schneerson,