Our heightened activities in honor of Yud Shevat should extend to every type of Jew, and include men, women and children. Naturally, the activities directed towards each group should be tailored to meet its unique needs and characteristics. This approach to outreach is one of the primary innovations of the Leader of our generation.
Men, women and children
One of the innovative practices of the Leader of our generation was that he would, from time to time, also address Jewish women – in order to encourage and bolster them in matters concerning Judaism. Indeed, he would also do so for children. He would then further instruct that these addresses be published, thereby turning them into instructions for future generations. (Parshas Bo 5748; Hisva’aduyos p.275)
Unparalleled increase
We do find a similar conduct with Jewish leaders of previous generations (as can be discerned in their letters and the like). This practice, however, was not accepted by everyone, and was therefore somewhat restricted. The activities in this direction of the Leader of our generation, on the other hand, spread forth and reached numerous locations worldwide – and indeed continues to spread ever wider. This practice resulted in an unparalleled increase in Torah study by Jewish ladies and girls – as well as Jewish children. (Parshas Bo 5752; Hisva’aduyos p.150)
Women influence men
The particular emphasis on activities with Jewish women and children is highly significant – in addition to enhancing their personal service, these activities also result in an increase in the divine service of the entire household, including the men.
Children influence parents
The uniqueness of children is that they are taught step by step, in accordance with their limited capacities. In addition, the nature of a child is “to break their food into crumbs,” which also enables the food to reach those who cannot yet accept anything more than small “crumbs.” [I.e., the simplistic style of a child’s education enables their parents and relatives to be introduced to Judaism on a level that is basic enough for their uninitiated consumption. Their Jewish education, which would otherwise be neglected, is nurtured by the education being given to their child. As the Rebbe explains, the Previous Rebbe (“Yosef”) appreciated this fact, and this approach is alluded to in the Torah’s description of Yosef HaTzaddik’s sustaining of Jewry in Egypt: This was the uniqueness of Yosef, who [as ruler of Egypt in the time of famine] provided sufficient “bread [even giving extra] for the consumption of the infants,” whose way it is to waste much of their food. (ibid.)]
Woman and girls’ spiritual influence
A similar concept applies to Jewish woman and girls. [The Rebbe continues and ...]
