“Free will” has been a hot topic since the earliest of times. Because of its philosophical depth—yet strikingly practical implications—this persistent question demands attention in every serious discussion or debate.

Did I choose my personality, or am I merely acting out a script written by genetics and experience?

What exactly am I taking credit for, and what credit belongs to those who brought me here?

Why do I repeat the same patterns, even when I commit to change?

Am I just being compelled by biology and history?

If everything is orchestrated by Hashem, can I hold a grudge against those who hurt me?

And if not—can I feel gratitude toward those who treated me kindly?

Who is the “I” that chooses—the nefesh Elokis or the nefesh habehamis? And why does it choose as it does?

Is there something deeper than that “I”? If not, where do teshuvah and forgiveness come from?

What is less known are the pearls and gems scattered throughout the Rebbe’s Torah on this very subject.

Yet when one pays close attention—from the small footnotes the Rebbe penned while preparing the sichos of the 5700s, through the renowned sichos of 5751–5752, and across the decades in between—one begins to see a seed of wisdom taking root. It grows, blossoms, and spreads its branches, until its leaves hover over and illuminate nearly every topic in Chabad Chassidus.

After months of research and in-depth discussions with mashpi’im and colleagues, Arik Shemtov makes a bold attempt to journey through this sugya in the Rebbe’s Torah. The result is a 65-page קונטרס מסע הבוחר that offers a fresh perspective—both for those well-versed in the topic and for newcomers alike.

In honor of Yud Shvat, this booklet is now available at Crown Heights Judaica and sforim stores for the affordable price of $5.

The author can be contacted directly at 248-470-9380 or [email protected]

Download a sample.