By the Grace of G‑d
17th of Teves, 5740 [January 6, 1980]
Brooklyn, N.Y.
Greeting and Blessing:
This is to acknowledge receipt of your correspondence, including your donation for Rosh Chodesh Teves.
Apropos of your Tzedoko for Rosh Chodesh Teves, it is well to note that it always occurs during Chanukah. And being the "head" of the month, it sets the tone for the whole month. Chanukah is the festival that grew out of a serious crisis that threatened to plunge our people in complete darkness, as exemplified by the enemy's contaminating all the oil in the Beis Hamikdash and putting out the Menorah, the visible symbol of the light of the Torah and Mitzvoth. This attempt of the enemy was countered by an all-out resurgence of Mesiras Nefesh for Torah and Mitzvoth, which not only dispelled the darkness, but intensified the light of Yiddishkeit even more than before, as reflected in the fact that the Chanukah Menorah, which we light ever since, has eight lamps, although the Menorah of the Beis Hamikdash had only seven. Moreover, the manner of lighting the Chanukah lights further emphasizes the spirit and message of Chanukah, since we light the Chanukah candles in increasing numbers from day to day, reminding us that we must similarly spread and intensify the light of the Torah and Mitzvoth, however satisfactory and even perfect the level of Torah and Mitzvoth may be at any particular day.
And since G‑d rewards in kind, He sends His blessings in all needs likewise in a growing and most generous measure.
May G‑d grant that this should be so with you and yours and may you always have good news to report.
Receipt is enclosed for your Tzedoko, and may the Zechus of it additionally stand you and yours in good stead, for the fulfillment of your heart's desires for good.
With blessing,
M. Schneerson
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