985 —פסח, חיזוק האמונה, והשפעה חיובית

B"H, 13 Nissan, 5711.

Brooklyn, NY.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

As the festival of Pesach approaches, I hereby wish you to celebrate the holiday in a kosher and joyful manner together with your entire family. May you merit to influence all those around you to ascend in holiness on the path that leads to the House of G‑d.

Especially during the days of Pesach—when our nation began its conversion—and every year at this time these matters are awakened. On Pesach, which is the season of our freedom—not only from physical bondage but also from the evil inclination—the lesson is to increase strength and effort in these areas. This is why matzah is called 'Michla d'Asvata' (the food of healing; Zohar II p.123b), as it strengthens emunah (faith), as explained there p.41a.

I am enclosing the kuntres published for Pesach, which will surely interest you. I would like to point out what I wrote in my introduction regarding eating matzah: during Pesach one's body is nourished by food that strengthens faith in Elokus (G‑dliness). Also note that the Korban Pesach differs from other offerings in that its primary purpose is for eating by the owners specifically—not for consumption by the altar or Kohanim.

With blessings for a kosher and joyous festival,

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that Pesach is a time to strengthen emunah through matzah and positive influence on others. The unique qualities of matzah and Korban Pesach highlight spiritual nourishment and freedom from inner limitations.