By the Grace of G-d Erev Shabbos Kodesh Tovo 18th of Elul, 5730 Brooklyn, N.Y.

Greeting and Blessing:

I was pleased to be informed about the forthcoming Annual Dinner of the Yeshiva on the 22nd of Elul.

The month of Elul has a distinction of its own in that it is the month of spiritual stock-taking for the outgoing year and preparation for the incoming year.

The significance of this month is expressed also in the fact that from Rosh Chodesh Elul we begin to recite twice daily Psalm 27, beginning: "G-d is my light, and my salvation . . . the strength of my life.”

The meaning of these three attributes - light, salvation, strength ־ is as follows:

A human being has a choice of two ways in life, the right way and the wrong way, the way of the good and the opposite way. In order to be able to make the proper choice, he needs illumination, so that he would not be groping in darkness. This is why we turn to G-d as "my light."

Having chosen the right way in life, a person often finds that it is not without trials and difficulties. He must, therefore, again constantly rely on G-d to save him from pitfalls, and help him overcome difficulties. This is the meaning of "my salvation."

Finally, perfection demands that a person constantly go "from strength to strength." There is always room for advancement in matters of goodness and holiness, as well as in the degree of joy and vitality with which the good deeds are performed. Once again he must turn to G-d "my strength."

In the light of the above reflections on Elul, and in the spirit of this month as indicated above, I am confident that the annual function of the Yeshiva will be carried out most successfully and accomplish its goals, particularly in helping to strengthen and expand the Yeshiva. Indeed, the Torah-true education provided by the Yeshiva may be said to reflect and implement the "Elul spirit" through helping its students attain perfection in accordance with the said three foundations, as expressed in the verse: "G-d is my light, my salvation, the strength of my life."

With felicitations and prayerful wishes to the Yeshiva administration, the distinguished guests, participants and friends, who are fortunate to have the great Zechus of supporting the Yeshiva and enabling it to grow, flourish and produce good fruits, and

With esteem and blessing for Hatzlocho and good tidings and a Kesivo v’Chasimo Tovo,

Signed: /Menachem Schneerson/