Igrot Kodesh · Letter 4129 — Tzedakah

B"H

21 Shevat 5716

Brooklyn

To the Rav, distinguished Chassid* who fears Hashem*

and devotes himself to communal needs,

Rav Shmuel Betzalel (Rav S. B. Althuiz of Melbourne, Australia, see letter no. 1105),

I greet you and bless you,

I am responding to your letter of 14 Shevat and to your request for a blessing* on the day of the Hilloula* (10 Shevat) of my father-in-law, the Rebbe*, whose merit protects us, leader of Israel, which will be read, at a propitious moment, near his holy resting place.

You ask me about increasing the number of those called up to the Torah* in order to collect funds for the Yeshivah* (through the donations made on such occasions). In accordance with an instruction (see letter no. 885) of my father-in-law, the Rebbe*, based on the responsa of the Tzemach Tzedek*, one does not go beyond the seven aliyos* and the one who recites the Haftarah*, in such a case. One can, however, conduct several readings in different locations.

Your second question concerned the spiritual state of those who pray in the synagogue and its leaders (whether one should specifically seek a synagogue in which all members are observant). It is quite obvious that everything depends on the individuals in particular and on the state of the synagogue in general. It is difficult to establish rules in this matter from one era to another, especially from a distance.

It is said that "the answer is obtained through many counselors," and in this case, that is what should be done. It is surely unnecessary to remind you of what is explained in the Tanya*, Chapter 32, and at greater length by the Tzemach Tzedek* in the Derech Mitzvosecha*, the mitzvah* of loving one's fellow. You may find an answer to your question there.

You tell me that you have moved into a new home. May Hashem* grant that by changing your location, you change your mazal*, for good and for blessing, materially and spiritually.

With my blessing of success,