SCHNEERSON, JOSEPH ISAAC.

<<An important communication from the Frierdiker Rebbe to his Chassidim. Written on the third Yohrzeit of his father, the Rasha’b.>> A deeply moving letter, revealing the depth of feeling and bonds of commitment the Frierdiker Rebbe had to his father. Written on the Rashab’s third Yorzheit, it contains a programmatic definition of what a Chassid is and how he should behave in all circumstances and surroundings. The letter commences with an emotionally charged description of how suddenly the Frierdiker Rebbe and all the Chassidim became orphans. His father’s final wish before he passed away was that his son should endeavor to establish groups in all cities to publicly study Chassiduth. “My friends… reflect deeply, how much longer can we continue to go about with eyes closed, not paying attention to what is really happening to us within [our souls]. Days and nights pass without Torah and Avodah. Let us open our eyes and really observe ourselves… Where is our Chassiduth? The prayer from the heart, the love and the friendship? All has been devoured by externalities… We seem to have been struck by madness… All find fault only with others, while self-criticism is covered with a cloak of self-love… Remember what your holy teacher beseeches of you, establish times for Torah and Tephilah… Remember your roots… Why are you not reflecting on our cold and sterile condition? Are we Chassidim simply because we pray in the Alter Rebbe’s nusach and celebrate Chassidic holidays? Our strength weakens daily… Tens of thousands of excuses confuse and confound us, preventing the public study of Chassiduth, proper prayer, meeting together with words to arouse our hearts and enliven our dried-out bones… Please have pity upon yourselves, give your children what your parents provided you… Our mission in this world is to bless the land through Torah and Mitzvoth… Wherever you live, establish groups for Torah, Chassiduth and appropriately heartfelt prayer… The connection of the heart and soul that my holy father endowed us with should enlighten everyone.” The letter closes with munificent blessings. <<The only signed copy of this letter extant.>> See Igroth Kodesh, Admo”r MahaRaYa”Tz, Vol. I, no. 120, pp. 247-49. The footnote on p. 247 states that it was previously published separately and that the Rebbe’s Library has a manuscript of the text which was copied from ms. no. 677.