“Sounds like a decent offer,” mused Mr. Aharonson as he reached for the phone. A carpenter had advertised his workshop in the “For Sale” section of a local paper.

Shortly after an initial conversation, the two men met to discuss the details. The potential buyer and the seller were both eager to cut a deal, and they soon felt ready to draw up a contract.

“I’ve made an appointment with the lawyer for tomorrow at 10 o’clock,” said the carpenter as he stood up.

He extended his hand to Mr. Aharonson, who shook it warmly, but added: “No, tomorrow is too soon. Although I’m very interested, I want to handle one more detail. You see, I always ask the Lubavitcher Rebbe for his consent and blessing before confirming any business transaction.”

Although such an approach is common among the Rebbe’s followers, it was strange to the carpenter. He agreed, but with some hesitation. “I respect your faith,” he answered, “but please do not delay too long. After all, I do have other prospective buyers.”

A few days later, the carpenter received a phone call. “I’m sorry,” said Mr. Aharonson. “I am canceling my offer. The Rebbe implied that the deal is not for me.”

The next day, a fire destroyed the carpentry. However, the financial loss was not as bad as it might have been had the transaction actually taken place.

The carpentry had been insured by its original owner. Thus, he suffered no major loss. As a matter of fact, he received more money from the insurance than he would have received from the sale. Mr. Aharonson, on the other hand, would not have been covered by this policy.

The Rebbe’s advice thus proved beneficial to both the buyer and the seller in a transaction that never took place.