By the Grace of G-d
13th of Elul, 5727
Brooklyn, N. Y.
Greeting and Blessing:
Although it is a long time since I heard from you, I take the opportunity of the present significant and auspicious days of Elul to write to you a few lines, in the hope that you will read also between the lines.
The special significance of the month of Elul is explained by the Alter Rebbe who, in addition to being the founder of Chabad, possessed an all-embracing mind which, as is well known, already from his early youth embraced not only all parts of the Torah, but also the sciences of mathematics, etc. Family tradition transmitted from generation to generation, relates various episodes wherein his brilliant scientific mind came to the fore. I mention this by way of introduction to his explanation that follows, because this gives the assurance that his words are valid not only on the basis of his extraordinary Torah knowledge, but also on the basis of a scientific mind.
This is what he said in regard to the month of Elul, which is the period of preparation for the new year:
There are times when a king leaves his palace and goes out to meet his subjects in the field, when everyone, regardless of his state and station, can approach the king, and the king receives everyone graciously and fulfills their petitions. The days of Elul are such a period when the King of Kings is, as it were, “in the field.”
Thus the month of Elul offers a wonderful opportunity to make up for the past months, and to do so not through trial and suffering, but with joy reflecting the graciousness of the King. All that is necessary is to resolve to go in the right direction, and then one will find the going much easier than expected.
May G-d grant that each one of us should do all that is necessary in the right direction, and to do so with a firm resolution coupled with true joy, and this will certainly bring a greater measure of happiness in the new year.
I hope and pray that I may receive happy tidings from you.
With the blessing of Kesivo vaChasimo Tovo,
P.S. To add a further point in an area which is familiar to you.
As you know various scientific experiments have been made to produce artificial diamonds. This entailed the need for tremendous pressure and temperatures in order to transform a very simple and common element that can be found everywhere into a precious stone.
In the world of the spirit we find corresponding accomplishments, except that these can be achieved much easier, since it is not necessary to achieve it under tremendous temperatures and pressures. In other words, a Jew can easily transform his mental and spiritual capacities into “precious stones.” All that is necessary is to have the firm resolution and desire, for in that case one no longer is limited to one’s own resources, but becomes attached to the limitless Source of strength that one derives from the One Above.
I was particularly gratified to receive—some time ago—a report from....
