The cause of the destruction of the Beis Hamikdash — causeless hatred; utilizing the summer vacation for holiness
By the Grace of G-d
7th of Menachem Av, 5731
Brooklyn, N.Y.
To the Students of . . .
London, England
Blessing and Greeting:
I was pleased to receive the Tammuz edition of your magazine and to read about your activities.
Inasmuch as we are now in the period recalling the saddest events in our history, which, however, is destined to become a period of rejoicing and gladness, it is well to reflect on the cause that brought about this period. One does not have to look far for the cause, since it is clearly stated in our prayers, “because of our sins we have been exiled from our land.”
Therefore, in order to correct the situation and hasten the geulo, it is necessary to remove the cause. Our Sages of blessed memory also told us that the principal sin that brought about the destruction of the Beis Hamikdash, etc., was the disunity and hatred which were prevalent at the time without reason.
Accordingly, the maximum measure of Ahavas Yisroel can offset and repair that cause. This means that everyone, young and old, has the obligation and duty to spread the Torah and mitzvos with the utmost measure of Ahavas Yisroel, and thus help bring the geulo all the sooner.
The above observations are particularly opportune at this time of the summer holidays. Clearly, insofar as a Jew is concerned, a holiday can be taken from secular studies and secular things, but not in matters of Yiddishkeit. On the contrary, inasmuch as one has much more time and less distractions from other things, it is necessary to increase the time devoted to Jewish things and Jewish activities.
I trust that you will also serve as a living example to other girls and other groups to take advantage of the summer time in the above mentioned spirit.
May G-d grant that you should always have good news to report.
With blessing,
