Igrot Kodesh · Letter 8655 — Tzedakah

By the grace of Hashem,

7 Menachem Av* 5723,

Brooklyn,

To the young man Raphael (note 1: R. Shraga, of Toronto),

I greet you and bless you,

I respond to your letter of 4 Menachem Av*, in which you ask me in what manner to exercise a positive influence on a young man. It is clear that everything depends on his level of knowledge and his character traits. One must therefore inquire from those who know him and it is said that: "salvation comes from numerous counselors." It is without doubt unnecessary to recall the affirmation of our Sages* according to which words emanating from the heart penetrate into the heart. One must therefore express oneself warmly. In this way, one has great chances of succeeding. And, one of the essential points is to give a good example through one's daily behavior, which is more decisive than words. May Hashem grant you success in all that has been said.

All is an effect of divine Providence* (note 2: Including, in this case, the fact that this young man wrote to the Rebbe* to pose this question). It is therefore my duty and my merit to underline the importance of fixing, each day, a time for the study of the profound part of the Torah*, which, in our era, has been revealed through Chassidus*. And, this time will be increased during Shabbos*, which is holy for Hashem. Numerous works underline its importance, in particular the Kuntres Etz HaChaim*, of the Rebbe Rashab*, as well as the Kuntres Limud HaChassidus* and the Kuntres Toras HaChassidus*, of my father-in-law, the Rebbe*, whose merit will protect us. With my blessing in order to give me good news of all this,

For the Rebbe* Shlita*,