Buy, Build, and Strengthen

From the Holy Letters of the Rebbe, Volume 17, Letter 6215. Boruch Hashem, the second day of Iyar, 5718, Brooklyn. Addressed to Harav Hachassid Reb Levi Yitzchak Shapiro of Cleveland. Shalom u’Vrachah.

The Rebbe writes in response to his letter of Rosh Chodesh Iyar. In this letter, the Rebbe offers practical guidance regarding the question of purchasing a home.

The Rebbe states that his known opinion in such matters is that it is preferable to buy a house rather than rent one. Instead of paying rent to someone else, the same money can be used toward paying one’s own mortgage and building one’s own property. This, the Rebbe notes, is something simple and easy to understand.

At the same time, the Rebbe adds that when asking about a particular house or a specific property, that is already a matter for professional expertise. Concerning the details of a certain home, one should consult those who are knowledgeable and experienced in that field, and follow their advice.

The Rebbe concludes with a blessing that Hashem should grant success, and that the recipient should be able to share good news in all these matters. He further blesses him with success in personal matters, in strengthening Yiddishkeit generally, and especially in spreading the wellsprings of Chassidus. He also sends blessings for good health.

This letter reflects the Rebbe’s practical approach: use sound judgment in material matters, seek qualified guidance where needed, and always keep spiritual growth and the spreading of Torah at the center of life.

Summary –
The Rebbe teaches that material decisions should be approached wisely and constructively. Build for the future, seek expert advice when needed, and remember that every worldly success should go together with growth in Torah, Yiddishkeit, and Chassidus.