The issue is not the content, but the source.

This interview was a pushback against attempts to redefine or re-imagine Chabad. It’s part of דע מה שתשיב. It’s important not remain silent when distortions abound.

The Rebbe once advised a young couple to “make their home a place where the Alter Rebbe would feel comfortable.” It is our aspiration that our platform here will be one where the Rebbe feels comfortable.

How does posting from that source align??

The first thing that struck me is the graciousness of Rabbi Gourary in listening, responding and acknowledging modes of expression that are somewhat foreign to Chassidim’s ears without judgment or dismissal.

Secondly the abilty to acknowledge the place and vital importance of treating mental health challenges and notwithstanding that explain the danger of interpreting Chassidus through a psychological lense. Then go on to admit and address the need and methods for making Chassidus relevant and practical, but at the same time stress the need to delve into Chassidus on its terms, despite the fact that many of the levels and issues discussed are completely beyond one’s current level of avodas Hashem.

Without knowing Rabbi Gourary personally, the sense I walked away with was that he practices what he preaches about on the one hand the need to translate Chassidus to a wider audience but on the other hand to be steeped in the real reality of Tomchei Temimim. He used the concept of rotzo veshuv to demonstrate this tension and the health living with it. All in all it was a balanced and well articulated presentation of what is wrong with some of the new ways Chassidus is being taught.

Bentzi Avtzon ought to be commended on his thoughtful presentation of the dichotomy of living in the US and living like a Chossid.