By the Grace of G-d14th of Teves, 5731Brooklyn, N. Y.

Blessing and Greeting:

I was pleased to receive a good report about your progress in your studies, as well as your letter of the 4th of January, conveyed to me by your parents. 

May G-d grant the fulfillment of your heart’s desires for good in the matters about which you write.

As for the question where to continue your studies, it is well to bear in mind that in the present day and age Jews are under extreme pressure not only physically, but even more so spiritually. The forces of alienation and assimilation are very strong, and it is therefore necessary for each and every Jew to fortify himself and herself in the maximum possible measure. This calls for attendance at an educational institution with the utmost Yiras Shomayim and most conducive atmosphere to inspire and permeate the students, so as not to be influenced or affected by outside pressures.

If anyone may think that he or she should not be afraid to be exposed to a test or trial, suffice it to mention that our Sages of blessed memory who knew well human nature, strongly cautioned against such over confidence. Indeed, every Jew, even a Tzadik who has spent scores of years in learning and practicing the Torah and Mitzvoth, also begins the day, like any other Jew, with the prayer at the beginning of the Morning Prayer: “Bring me not into the hands of temptation.” Moreover, our Sages point out that even King David, G-d’s anointed, when in a moment of great spiritual elation said, “Test me, oh G-d, and try me”, it brought him into trouble.

In the light of the above, I am confident that you will make the right decision, and may G-d grant you the utmost Hatzlocho.

With blessing,

M. Schneerson