Friday, April 28, 2023

Igrot Hare’aya – Letters of Rav Kook: Joining Forces in Yafo Schools – #147

Date and Place: 17 Tammuz 5668 (1908), Yafo 

Recipient: The Mizrachi Organization, Western Bureau, who were in the process of establishing a school in Yafo.

Body: I must let you know that here in Yafo there is already a school, Tachkemoni, whose goals fit what you desire. They connect Torah with [secular] knowledge, along with proficiency in the Hebrew language, which is the language of instruction. It was established according to the desire of people who are loyal to traditional Judaism, so that it will satisfy all who fear Hashem and His word. It is just that because of a weak physical infrastructure, it has been unable to develop to the degree that our brothers are satisfied with.

That school’s administration has approached me with their desire to unify their operation with yours. We can trust them, as they fear Hashem and desire education based on sacred purity, teaching Torah and knowledge, and a proper preparation for life, filled with love of the nation, the Land, and the nation’s reawakening. Therefore, educational philosophy should not separate you.

Therefore, I recommend their serious offer to unify the efforts, whereby the first classes that you have agreed to found will join with those which Tachkemoni has already opened, and it will be called “The Mizrachi School.” If you like this idea, the benefits will come quickly. Things will develop in quantity and high quality, in a way that can make it a role model in the Holy Land and an honor for its community. Your agreement will solve your problem of a venue in an excellent manner, by joining Tachkemoni’s home. I await your distinguished response.

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