Standards in Lubavitch Leadership

 

Question:

I have a question about the concept of shlichus:

I know the vast majority of shluchim are the best of the best in every area. However, it appears to me there might be a very small group of shluchim who aren’t so chassidish etc.

My question is: are there no standards for shluchim and shluchos? One example comes to mind: There is a lot of tznius education going on in our schools, and the Rabbonim speak up by the kinus and before the summers etc etc, but shouldn’t all of the shluchos be held to accountable standards in order to represent the Rebbe on shlichus?

I’m writing to you as the Rabbonim of the Rebbe’s shechuna where people are sent out on shlichus generally. Thanks so much!!

 

Answer:

To preface, this is a very serious issue, and nothing written below should be misconstrued as support (chas veshalom) or apathy towards it. It is a valid question that should concern everyone and encourage all to do their utmost to bring improvements to this area.

Although this question should really be addressed to the moisdois responsible for sending out shulchim—especially since this platform is primarily for answering practical halachic questions—I will nevertheless write down a few thoughts based on the Rebbe’s sichos and letters, with Hashem’s help:

B’hashgacha protis you sent this question today, on Chof Alef Iyar. In today’s Hayom Yom, it’s written that every single person has an obligation to spread Torah and Yiddishkeit wherever they are. The same theme can be found in countless Sichos.

In other words, “Shlichus” is a personal responsibility on every individual. Even if you only know alef-beis, you can teach it, regardless of your personal situation.

An additional point to consider is the fact that in many cases the responsibility to educate others can lead to an improvement in their own standing in yiddishkeit over time. This is similar to the idea of והשיב לב אבות על (ידי) בנים.

These points were said (and written) by the Rebbe to many people who thought they weren’t “worthy” of doing הפצת המעיינות: why should others lose out because of your problems; and the work itself will elevate you to a higher level.

In one particular Sicha, Shabbos Lech Lecha 5749, the Rebbe contrasts our generation with previous generations: whereas in the past many preparations were required before one would be called upon to be a Shaliach, nowadays there is no time to wait, and no preparations are needed.

Thus, even if someone’s avodas Hashem leaves much to be desired, it still doesn’t take away their “right” (and duty!) to be shluchim. See a similar idea regarding Modeh Ani in Hayom Yom, 11 Shevat.

Two additional points: it’s very possible that Hashem arranged that they be shluchim as an “anchor” for them. Meaning that the situation might be even worse (ch”v) if they weren’t shluchim.

Also, to look at it from a different perspective: how beautiful is it that in our community, people make an effort to bring others close to Hashem, even when they personally are not totally in sync with Hashem’s will—whereas others might take the approach that these people should be shunned.

Again, all of the above does not condone their behavior in the slightest. Everything must still be done to influence them to improve through inspiring them זה בכתבו וזה בנאומו etc.

At the same time, we are encouraged to look at everyone with a “good eye”, and see the positive in all individuals. There’s a lot of positive that can be seen in people who have dedicated their entire lives to Shlichus, even if they might have shortcomings in some areas. This is true of an individual; certainly, this is true when we look at the whole picture of Shluchim as a whole. As you mentioned correctly, “the vast majority of shluchim are the best of the best in every area”, and it is important to use this perspective when looking at this issue.

 

 

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