By the Grace of G-d5th of Teves, 5745Brooklyn, N.Y.

Greeting and Blessing:  

I received your letter of . . ., in Hebrew, in which you write that you listened to the Farbrengen of the 19th of Kislev, and ask [for] clarification about the word אחד in the Shema, which was discussed at the Farbrengen.  

Since it appears from your letter that it would be easier for you to receive the answer in English, this letter is written in English.  

It is not clear from your letter what exactly you want to clarify. But in general, the discussion was about the word אחד, as opposed to רבים. The word אחד in reference to HaShem means that HaShem is One and Unique and there is no one like Him, and since He revealed this truth first to our Jewish people and gave us the privilege to serve Him, it is the duty of every Jew to love HaShem "with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your might". This love is expressed particularly through observing His Mitzvoth in our everyday life and conduct.  

To know and remember and appreciate the above is so important that we say the Shema twice in the morning and twice in the evening; in other words, first thing in the morning when we get up, and also before going to bed at night.  

It is impossible to say more on this subject in a letter, but if there is anything further you want to know, then you should talk to a Rav in your community, or to one of our Lubavitch Sheluchim.  

Whether one knows more or less about each particular Mitzvo, the important thing is to keep them all, because they have been commanded by HaShem.  

It is also well to bear in mind that HaShem gives every Jew, young or old, the capability to carry out His Mitzvoth in the fullest measure.  

Wishing you Hatzlocho in all above,  

With blessing,