On the topic of charitable deeds: we will now conclude by following our regular practice of [distributing dollar bills, thus] making each person an emissary to give charity. In addition to a single coin, which is the minimum for charity, a second coin will be added (and regarding bills – a second bill) in honor of Chai Elul. The key points are:
- That “all who add, are added to [from Heaven]” in all their affairs,
- That this is especially true regarding being inscribed and sealed for a sweet new year – Kesivah veChasimah Tovah leShanah Tovah u’Mesukah, and
- That the main concern is to immediately bring vitality into every aspect of Elul.
Tzedakah Brings Geulah – Learn About the Geulah Too
Furthermore – and most importantly in light of the fact that one of the acronyms of the word Elul represents the Redemption – charity in general hastens the Redemption; and it certainly does so when we connect it with the study of the laws of the Redemption that are stated in Rambam – who dwells [on this topic] at length in the Laws of Moshiach and the Wars (of Kings) – as well as in Shulchan Aruch’s treatment of the blessing for Redemption that we recite in the Amidah prayer, and the like.
Conclude with a Blessing
Through our adding in Torah study, prayer and charitable deeds, we also produce a tangible addition in the “inscribing and sealing” of each and every Jew and the entire nation as one – leShanah Tovah Tichaseiv veSikaseim, “may you be written and sealed for a sweet new year!” [At this point, the Rebbe distributed two dollar bills to each person, to be given to Tzedakah. This rendition of the Sichah is based on unedited notes that were taken by those present.]
