1604 —ברכות על בן שנולד, פרנסה, וחיזוק הבטחון

B"H, 2nd of Sivan, 5712.

Brooklyn.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

I received your letters (which took longer than usual to arrive) from April 9th and May 2nd, and I read with joy that your wife's pregnancy went well and she gave birth to a son who was given the name ... may he live. May Hashem Yisbarach help you so that together with your wife, you should raise him with your parents and other children for Torah, marriage, and good deeds, and with ample livelihood.

In your letter you mention your concern about livelihood. You should remember what is written in the holy books: when a son is born it is a sign of blessing in the home—including in matters of livelihood. To hasten this, one must be strong in bitachon in Hashem Yisbarach, Who is the One Who sustains and provides for all and wants to give from His full hand. Another thing to remember is that one must make vessels to receive Hashem's blessings—which generally means Torah and mitzvos, especially giving tzedakah. If it seems there is financial strain, then one should give more tzedakah than before to show Hashem through this that there are greater needs for tzedakah; consequently He will provide more livelihood than before. May Hashem Yisbarach help you and your wife so that both of you are strong in bitachon and soon see Hashem's blessing fulfilled with ample livelihood.

Blessings for good health for you, your wife, and your children—may they live—and a joyous Yom Tov of Shavuos.

P.S.: You did not write what the money you sent was for; I have forwarded it to Merkaz L'Inyonei Chinuch as a good start for the Torah education of your newborn son for long life and good years.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that the birth of a son brings blessing—especially in livelihood—and urges strengthening bitachon in Hashem. Increasing tzedakah creates vessels for G‑d's blessings; even during financial strain, giving more tzedakah draws down greater abundance.