ב”ה September 7, 1945
Mr. Julius Stulman
171 West Street
Brooklyn, N.Y.
Dear Mr. Stulman:
In the name of the Merkos L’Inyonei Chinuch, and in my own behalf I take this occasion to wish you and your family a very happy and healthy New Year; a year in which you will meet with success in all your undertakings.
The exact meaning of the words Rosh Hashonah is - "head" of the year. Our sages explain1 why the name is not Techilas Hashonah - beginning of the year. The reason is as follows: Just as in the head are located the centers governing all the body, so at Rosh Hashonah we must prepare ourselves to live the coming year according to our good intentions and resolutions.
May the Almighty give all of us the strength necessary to carry out our good resolutions.
With the wishes of a Kesivah Vechasimah Tovah, I remain
Sincerely yours,
M. Schneerson
Chairman, Exec. Committee
Notes and sources
1) See Ateres Rosh, beginning of Shaar Rosh Hashana (2a).
For the content of this letter see also Igros Kodesh, vol. 2, letter 198 (pp. 59f.).
Source: Photocopy of Original
Published: Rebbe Responsa Exclusive
A "Head" Start