We are commanded not to make predictions; An analysis based on current events
By the Grace of G-d
In the Days of Selichoth, 5720
200th Anniversary of the Histalkus of the Baal Shem Tov of blessed memory
Brooklyn, N.Y.
Mr. . . .
Rotterdam-3
Greeting and Blessing:
With the approach of Rosh Hashana, the beginning of the New Year, may it bring blessings to us all, I send you and all yours my prayerful wishes for a good and happy year, materially and spiritually.
With the traditional blessing of הביתכ המיתחו בוטה
Cordially
M. Schneerson
Your letter of September 20th was duly received. You ask for my prognosis as to the world situation. Forecasting the future is a matter for prophets, but we have been instructed by the Torah, “Thou shalt be wholehearted with G-d, thy G-d.”
This means that we should not engage in any fanciful things, but should have complete and sincere faith in G-d’s benevolent Providence.
On the other hand, common sense seems to indicate that, inasmuch as the initiative at present is in the hands of the communistic world and they have succeeded to attain their objectives through the cold war, there is no reason to believe that they will engage in more drastic measures of a hot war. At any rate, we have only to rely on G-d, whose benevolent Providence extends to nations and individuals alike, and in every detail and aspect of life. The true conception of Divine Providence is fully explained in the teachings of the Baal Shem Tov, whose 2OOth anniversary we have recently observed.
