2140 —נסים יוצאים מדרך הטבע לאנשים פרטיים, חיזוק האמונה, ותובנות חג השבועות

B"H, 21 Sivan, 5713.

Brooklyn.

Haraha"g vavac"h iy"a nu"n oseik b'tzt"z etc. Yehoshua Shpetman

Shalom u'Vrachah!

In response to your letter from the 17th of Sivan, I was startled to read its beginning where you write that it is very difficult for you, etc., etc., and "why do you concern yourself with the mysteries of the Merciful One." Regarding your quoting of the Rambam that "the Holy One does not perform a miracle outside the natural order for an individual," we have clearly seen miracles beyond nature even for individuals, especially in recent years.

This is particularly true regarding matters connected to the body's cavity, where many times mistakes have been made even after all examinations. All this is in addition to the fact that new medicines are being developed daily. Nevertheless, it is essential—and cannot be otherwise—to strengthen one's connection with Hashem, Who heals all flesh and performs wonders. The verse retains its simple meaning: He performs wonders openly for an individual; proof being that everyone personally recites this blessing. There is no need to elaborate further.

If only people would not fulfill the idea that increased knowledge leads to such situations; it would be better to fulfill our Sages' saying that "the recipient of a miracle does not recognize his own miracle." It is understood that none of the above negates the logic that one must seek at least two medical opinions in this field and regarding procedures—as is known from the tzt"z's statement that Torah grants permission to a doctor to heal but not G‑d forbid to cause melancholy.

Regarding what you wrote about Shavuos and customs found in Chassidic books: It was discussed at last year's farbrengen on Chag HaShavuos that contrary to popular opinion, at Matan Torah (the Giving of the Torah), the revealed aspect of Torah was actually hidden and concealed. On the day of Matan Torah Israel only heard the Ten Commandments—and even then, with each utterance their souls departed—so there could not have been understanding or comprehension at that time; all other parts of Torah were given only in concealment.

As is well known in many places and from Rav Saadia Gaon's Azharot how all 613 mitzvos and seven rabbinic commandments are included and hinted at (in the 620 letters) of the Ten Commandments. In contrast, regarding the secrets of Torah—the most hidden mysteries—Maaseh Merkavah (the mystical vision) was seen by all Israel and even by those secondary to Israel (even those among them suspected of spiritual defect due to being from the mixed multitude; but as for Bnei Yisrael themselves—their impurity ceased at Matan Torah; even after the sin of the Golden Calf some impurity returned but nevertheless they were changed completely—even physically—as proven in Shabbat 147a).

Blessings that Hashem grant you always good tidings in your personal matters and communal matters.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that miracles beyond nature can occur even for individuals today and stresses strengthening faith in Hashem as Healer. He also shares deep insights into Shavuos: while much remained concealed at Matan Torah, its spiritual impact transformed all Israel.