To contemplate on a Chassidus idea, is by definition not a methodical activity. Often, when bochurim asked the Rebbes advice in this area, the Rebbe emphasized this.
“The contemplation should be done either by going more in depth or by reviewing what one already knows,” the Rebbe directed a searching Yid in a 5 Kislev 5721 letter. “The way to go about it depends on one’s nature. For some, it is done by reviewing the rebbes words verbatim, for others its by reviewing the content rather than the wording...”
When Reb Pinye Korf was in yechidus for his birthday, in 5715, the Rebbe mentioned thinking for fifteen minutes.
When he came in the next year, he asked the Rebbe if this was referring to contemplating before davening, and whether the fifteen minutes must be exact, or he can go overtime.
“Yes,” replied the Rebbe, “I was refering to before davening.
“The fifteen minutes are not precise. Es iz doch an inyan fun hergesh halev, it is a matter of the heart’s feeling, so one can’t look at the watch to see if it’s a few extra minutes. So, if it doesn’t interfere with seder hayeshiva, why not...”
(Igros Kodesh; Ovinu Roeinu p. 32)
