Igrot Kodesh · Letter 5710 — Tzedakah

B"H

5 Elul 5717

Brooklyn

I am responding to your letter of the 25th, 11th, and 17th, in which you tell me about this young woman who has apostatized, Heaven forbid. Some say that this is an effect of sorcery. Cease, then, explaining such situations by sorcery, for this has the effect of weakening the efforts necessary in order to achieve success. Indeed, "a Jew, even if he sins, remains a Jew." One must therefore do everything to save her, including by employing natural means. In this case, there are surely natural causes that led her to this dreadful step. By discovering them, one will know how to combat them more effectively.

But moreover, one must determine whether this young woman was born in purity — that is, whether the relationship with her mother was permitted according to the Law of the Torah* at the time of her conception. If there was a deficiency in this matter, Heaven forbid, the parents must firmly resolve, for the future, to scrupulously and carefully observe the principles and rules of family purity*, in the proper manner. They will also influence those around them to do the same. Indeed, the positive influence exerted on one's fellow can rectify the past, to a certain extent. Hashem examines the hearts, and when He sees their good resolution in this domain, He will increase His blessing so that the effort to save a Jewish soul will be fruitful. May Hashem grant that you give me good news of this.

With my blessing to be inscribed and sealed for a good year,

For the Rebbe shlita*,

the secretary,

P.S.: You will also verify whether there was not, in this case, a foreign romantic involvement, Heaven forbid. And one must adopt a positive conclusion.