We all possess the full ability to to Teshuvah; Dismiss thoughts of Sorcery and Zodiacs as they have no place in Jewish Life
By the Grace of G-d
15 of Iyar, 5737
Brooklyn, N.Y
Mr. . . .
Long Beach, Calif. 90807
Greeting and Blessing:
I am in receipt of your letter with the enclosure, in which you write that teshuvo is a very difficult thing to achieve.
I trust it is surely unnecessary to explain to you at length that inasmuch as G-d is the Creator and Master of the whole world and of each and every individual and is the essence of goodness, it follows that He desires to see the achievement of all things which He expects of everyone. In other words, since G-d gives a shlichus, He surely makes it possible for the shliach to carry it out, although one may find it easier and another more difficult. Indeed, the fact that one finds greater tests and difficulties in carrying out his shlichut is in itself proof that he has been given greater powers than others, and the greater the pity to let such powers go to waste without utilizing them to the full, which is a further letdown.
As for your mentioning such matters as sorcery and signs of the zodiac, etc., noting that you properly call the said subjects “goyish” matters, there is no need for me to go into further details to you except to add that they certainly have no place in Jewish life, as the Prophet clearly states, “Thus said G-d, ‘learn not the way of the nations and be not dismayed at the signs of Heaven, at which the nations are dismayed.’” (Jeremiah 10:2)
Consequently, you and your wife should put these things completely out of your mind, but keep the channels wide open to receive G-d’s blessings in all needs through the daily life and conduct in accordance with His Will, namely in accordance with the Torah and mitzvos, and G-d will surely grant you hatzlocho.
As it is customary to remember one in prayer by mentioning one’s Hebrew name and mother’s name, please let me know these names when you write to me next, and I will remember you both in prayer as requested.
With blessing,
