BS"D
The Jewish people who left Egypt and received the Torah have, since then, become joined to it and dedicated to those who study it. Klal Yisroel shows its loyalty to Hashem by studying it. To be sure, it is not easy to begin learning at an advanced age, while one who starts young will succeed, since it is easier for him to grasp mishna, gemara and poskim. In order to achieve greatness, one must apply oneself and work hard for many years. For a young man, these years establish a foundation for the rest of his life. This is why, throughout the generations, everything was made possible to remove any impediments from advancement in Torah study so that youths could achieve a high level in bekiyus and understanding. Torah is what maintained our people throughout all the generations.
Furthermore, the very atmosphere of the army presents a terrible spiritual danger, which is the very opposite of what we strive to establish in our children.
We therefore ask everyone to pray that we be not hindered, for [Torah study] is our very life force, our mission in life, and if we are severed from it, it will be the most terrible misfortune that can happen to us for we wouldn't be able to carry out the Divine will. It is a question of life and death for us.
We address these words to those in the government: Leave us alone. Don't try to change us. Allow us to continue along our path. No compromise is conceivable. We must make sure that Torah not cease from the midst of our people.
We wish to urge the public, parents and children, to gather in the shuls to pray before the Heavenly Throne on Thursday, Taanis Esther, so that in the merit of the innocent tinokos shel beis rabban and their reciting of Tehillim, the evil decree be rescinded.
One who hopes and anticipates the imminent salvation of Hashem
The 8th of Adar
A. L. Shteinman
