By the grace of G-d 4th of Adar 1, 5717 Brooklyn, N.Y.

Sholom uBrocho:

I received your letter of Jan. 24, and was gratified to read in it that the Teffillin sent to you through our office are in use. May G-d help that your influence goes even further than that, and that the putting on of Tefillin will lead your spiritual wards to the consistent fulfillment of the other Mitzvoth as well. For, as I know, the specific “Segulah” of Tefillin (as each Mitzvah has a Segulah of its own) is the subjugation of the heart and the mind, as explained in the Shulchan Aruch¹ and in Tanya (beginning of ch. 41), as is indicated by putting on the Teffilin on the left arm, facing the heart, and on the head, the seat of the intellect. When the heart and the mind are subjected to G d, the whole man is properly and harmoniously attuned.

In mentioning the program of your studies, you failed to mention about regular study periods for Chassiduth. I trust that this omission is only in writing, and my references to it will bring about an increase in that department. If, however, the omission unfortunately is one of practice, then there is even a more urgent need of instituting daily study periods in Chassiduth, with extension of time on Shabbath and Yom Tov. As you will recall, I made a special point of the fact that anyone having influence on his environment must be particularly mindful of self-improvement, for every such effort is reflected in mindful improvement in those guided by him. The rewarding experience makes every effort worth while, and no difficulty too great.

The check was turned over to the Tefillin fund of Machne Israel.

With blessing to you and yours,

Re your question how to deal with inquiries about the cost of Tefillin, your answer should be that you do not sell Tefillin, but doing it l’shem Mitzvah. Anyone wishing to pay, may donate, by all means, to the Tefillin Fund to help provide Tefillin for those who cannot afford to pay.

9th of Adar I. Mailing of this letter was delayed, in the meantime yours of Feb. 3 was received. Additional receipt enclosed. Two additional pairs of Tefillin being sent to you, as requested.