Igrot Kodesh · Letter 9014 — General

By the grace of Hashem,

14 Menachem Av 5725,

Brooklyn,

I greet you and bless you,

I reply to your letter of 10/8. May Hashem cause you henceforth to know neither pain nor sorrow, and may you bring me only good news, in good health. You indicate that you wish to visit your relatives in Eretz Yisrael* and remain there until after the holidays.[1]

You surely know that travel there aboard a Jewish ship, owned by a Jewish proprietor, piloted and directed by Jews, is not permitted under any circumstances.[2] This would be one of the gravest transgressions. And one must feel bitter pity for those who do so without even knowing the grave harm they cause in this way — to themselves and to all Jews in general, Heaven forbid. However, if the journey is made by airplane, departing and arriving during weekdays, or aboard a non-Jewish vessel, it will be a good undertaking.

May Hashem grant you joy during this journey, before it, and once again after it. And may you derive true satisfaction — that is, Jewish satisfaction — from your children and grandchildren. The merit of the Tzedakah*, for which I enclose a receipt, will protect you in this regard. With my blessing,