Igrot Kodesh · Letter 4268 — Faith & Bitachon

B"H

29 Nissan* 5716

Brooklyn

Greetings and blessings,

I received, in due time, the list of participants in the Maamad* (see note 1). Our Sages* say that one ascends in matters of holiness — that is, the Torah* and the Mitzvos*. I hope that since then, this has been your case as well. For this is the true progress for a Jew. It is not sufficient to see months and years added to the calendar. One must also progress in the observance of the 248 positive commandments, corresponding to the 248 limbs of the body, and in the respect of the 365 prohibitions, corresponding to its 365 sinews.

This refers, simultaneously, to the limbs and sinews of the soul (see note 2) as well as those of the body. It is in this way that one strengthens one's health, as has been said. For Hashem* increases His blessings in everything one may need.

I hope it is unnecessary to remind you of the immense importance, in our era and for our generation, which has endured so many trials, of establishing a fixed study session in the part of the Torah* that strengthens trust in Hashem* and enables one to fulfill, in the best possible manner, the injunction: "Serve Hashem* with joy."

The verse says, indeed: "You shall serve Hashem* with joy and inspiration of heart," and one achieves this by studying Chassidus*, the words of the living Elokim*.

I would be grateful if you would share good news regarding all that has been said.

With my blessing,

P.S.: You surely know of the practice of reciting Tehillim* every day, after the morning prayer, according to the monthly division. I hope you will adopt this practice in the future.

(Notes in the original:

1. A Tzedakah* fund left to the discretion of the Rebbe.

2. Vivified by the observance of the corresponding Mitzvos*.)