By the Grace of G‑d
7th of MarCheshvan, 5722 [October 17, 1961]
Brooklyn, N.Y.

Greeting and Blessing:

I received your letter of the third of Cheshvan. In the meantime, you no doubt received my reply to your previous letter.

On the question of the custom of Chabad of not saying Selichos after Tzom Gedalia, there is an illuminating statement by the Tzemach Tzedek to the effect that the days between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are a time for action. The meaning of it is that the verbal prayers of Selichos should be reflected in actual deeds during these days, and in a growing measure, not only in quality but also in quantity. There is much more in the statement, which cannot be further expanded here, but essentially, the main purpose of the custom is to emphasize the need for action during these days.

Needless to say, when you find yourself in a place where the custom is to say Selichos, it is indeed proper to join with the rest of the congregation, especially as, in this case, the saying of our Sages, "Do not separate yourself from the Tzibbur," applies.

With blessing,