123 —שליחת ילקוט יומי פורמט כיס ועידוד לחיילים

Shalom u'Vrachah!

We are sending you the book "Yalkut Yomi - Pocket Encyclopedia," which we are certain will greatly interest you, so much so that you will frequently consult it and find much value in it. The Yalkut was printed in a pocket format so that it would be convenient to carry and always available at hand whenever needed. We have also allocated a special section for listing important topics and brief necessary notes, as we are confident that the Yalkut will accompany you and be a good companion not only when you are at home but also when you are on the road.

We would appreciate it if you let us know upon receiving the book, your impression of it, and if you have any comments regarding the Yalkut. We will consider them carefully in relation to next year's edition.

We take this opportunity to once again remind you—though we hope this idea is always before your eyes—that wherever you are, Hashem Elokei Tzevaos is with you, watching over you always and observing all your actions (as explained at length in the sichah of the Lubavitcher Rebbe). Therefore, there is no place for fear; be strong in spirit and confident in victory over the enemy. Increase your connection to your faith and religion, and strive with all your strength to fulfill Torah and mitzvos as much as possible, for Hashem stands over you. As it is written (Devarim 23:10-15): Ki Tetzei Machaneh Al Oyvecha VeNishmarta Mikol Davar Ra—Ki Hashem Elokecha Mithalech Bekerev Machanecha LeHatzilcha U'Letet Oyvecha Lefanecha VeHayah Machanecha Kadosh ("When you go out as a camp against your enemies, guard yourself from every evil thing—for Hashem your G‑d walks among your camp to save you and deliver your enemies before you; therefore your camp shall be holy").

With wishes that you return soon to your home whole after complete victory, and with wishes for complete redemption for all Bnei Yisrael.

This was copied from the original manuscript in order to translate it into English and send it together with the English calendar "Yalkut Yomi" to Jewish soldiers in the US Army. See above note to Igros Kodesh K.Ka. Regarding sending this letter and the one following it, it is reported in Kovetz Lubavitch (Booklet 1 p. 8): On Chanukah, "Machaneh Yisrael" sent to all Jewish soldiers on its mailing list the "Yalkut Yomi" (English) together with an inspirational letter. A special inspirational letter was sent from Machaneh Yisrael to all Jewish chaplains about their merit and duty to influence the soldiers.

Summary

The Rebbe sends encouragement along with a practical Torah resource for Jewish soldiers, reminding them that wherever they are—even on duty—Hashem is with them. He urges steadfastness in faith, observance of mitzvos, and confidence in ultimate victory and redemption.