Igrot Kodesh · Letter 4117 — Faith & Bitachon

B"H

17 Shevat 5716

Brooklyn

To the distinguished Chassid* who fears Hashem*

and devotes himself to communal needs,

of fine conduct, Rav Baruch (Rav B. Levittin, see letter no. 4085),

I greet you and bless you,

I am responding to your express letter of this Tuesday, with what was enclosed therein.

I thank you for your rapid response, although it was written with much bitterness, concerning the synagogue and the battle being waged therein so that it be directed in the proper manner (see letter no. 4085).

I emphasize this bitterness, for we heard many times from my father-in-law, the Rebbe*, whose merit protects us — and practice provides proof that it is indeed so — that one who goes to battle being sad and bitter will find himself weakened in his struggle. On the contrary, if one tells himself that he is going to put into practice the teachings of our holy Torah*, which was given to us by the Creator of the world, one acts with an enthusiasm that makes all the difference. Then, victory is much more likely and much swifter.

I hope you will not suspect me of having become a moralist and of giving you admonitions. The purpose of what I have just written is to lead you to intensify your action, to strengthen the confidence of the Jewish people, to reinforce their joy.

You know this Chassidic* explanation of the verse "Serve Hashem* with joy." Even on Tisha B'Av*, a day that will soon be transformed into joy and gladness with the coming of our righteous Moshiach*, one can fast and recite the Kinnos* while still experiencing a certain joy. Indeed, one has the great fortune of being able to fulfill the Will of the King, King of kings, the Holy One, blessed be He. And the Rambam* emphasizes, at the end of his laws of the Lulav*, that one who prevents himself from being joyous deserves punishment, whereas one who rejoices accomplishes an important act of the service of Hashem*. Please consult this text.

I am enclosing the lawyer's letter (see letter no. 4085). If you have further information on this matter, I hope you will communicate it to me and that the news will be good. I thank you in advance.

I am sending an extract of your letter to Pittsburgh (see letter no. 4085). I am certain that if they still need your help, you will provide it to them. May Hashem* grant you success.

With my blessing that you be filled with joy and success,