מחשבות זרות בזמן התפלה וחשיבות השימוש בסידור

B"H, 6 Elul, 5713.

Brooklyn.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

In response to your letter from the 29th of Menachem Av in which you write about the issue of foreign thoughts that disturb you from time to time, especially during prayer. You should pray from the siddur, and even when you need to contemplate something, the siddur should be open before you. When you feel your thoughts begin to wander, look into the siddur. It is known from our Sages that letters illuminate. You should also have some concepts from Chassidus engraved in your memory with their exact words; among them is the discourse 'VeHadarta Pnei Zaken' in Likkutei Torah at the end of Parshas Kedoshim. Also, before prayer in the morning on weekdays, give some coins to charity from time to time and instruct that your tefillin be checked. May Hashem grant you success in your service and in learning both Nigleh (the revealed part of Torah) and Chassidus. Do not pursue matters that are too lofty or wondrous for you. It is known that 'Oved Elokim' (one who serves G‑d) involves hard work and effort, as explained in Tanya and discourses of Chassidus.

With blessings for a good inscription and sealing.

In the name of the Rebbe Shlita — The Secretary

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that combating distracting thoughts during prayer requires practical steps: praying from a siddur, focusing on Chassidus teachings, giving charity before weekday prayers, ensuring tefillin are kosher, and embracing steady effort in spiritual growth.