Introduction
Generally, when we speak of things we love, we think of things that bring us pleasure. The very Hebrew word for love, ahavah, teaches us to view love differently. Ahavah has as its root the word hav, which means “give.” Loving involves giving – not merely things, but giving of ourselves.
In the sichah that follows, the Rebbe elaborates on the concept of ahavas Yisrael, “loving our fellow Jew,” which the Baal Shem Tov called an “occupation,” a labor of love. Rather than passively waiting for opportunities to present themselves, we are called to actively immerse ourselves in seeking ways to express this love. We are challenged to step beyond our comfort zones and connect with others regardless of their current spiritual state.
This “occupation of love” – this unconditional sharing of both material and spiritual wealth we possess – extends beyond familiar spiritual settings into places lacking Jewish awareness and observance. Wherever we find ourselves, the Rebbe invites us to recognize our presence there as the result of hashgachah pratis, Divine Providence. Each place we are found should be seen as a Divinely orchestrated opportunity where G-d has placed us to lovingly help others deepen their connection to Him and His Torah.
