We are pleased to present Issue 144 of Rebbe Responsa, a compilation of letters originally authored by the Lubavitcher Rebbe in English, culled from the Rebbe Responsa app.
In this week's Parsha we read the verse “אפרו אפרי,” which our Sages explain to be the mandate of physicians to heal and cure.
In previous years, we focused on the Rebbe's guidance regarding physical health. This year, we present a selection of letters on mental health and the role of mental health professionals, whom the Rebbe recognizes as holding the halachic status of physicians.
In these letters, the Rebbe addresses both patients and therapists. To those struggling emotionally, he offers perspective shifts rooted in the recognition of Divine order and purpose, emphasizing that self-discipline and Torah observance bring both spiritual clarity and emotional healing. To mental health professionals, the Rebbe provides guidance on navigating clinical practice while remaining true to Torah values, noting that strengthening patients’ faith alleviates anxiety and fosters inner peace. These letters illuminate the intersection of Torah and healing, and the integral part faith plays in the healing process.
All Titles, Summaries, and Footnotes were added by the publisher unless otherwise noted.
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The Rebbe’s English letters represent a little-known facet of the Rebbe’s Torah, containing profound wisdom and practical guidance expressed in clear, accessible language. We encourage you to download the Rebbe Responsa app, which offers the only comprehensive collection of the Rebbe’s English letters available to date. With over 5,000 letters organized by both topic and date, the app makes finding the Rebbe’s guidance and worldview simple and accessible.
May the study of these letters hasten the coming of Moshiach speedily in our days.
The Rebbe Responsa Team
