6250 —העמקה וענוה לנער בן שבע עשרה

Greetings and blessings! In response to your letter in which you ask: Is it permissible for a seventeen-year-old boy to contemplate deeply? You do not specify what matters you mean, but it appears from the continuation of your letter that you refer to matters of the duties of the heart for a Jewish person. It is obvious, and a clear ruling in Torah, that not only is it permitted but also obligatory, as ruled by the Rambam in Hilchos Yesodei HaTorah chapter 1 halachah 6, and knowing this is a positive commandment. Similarly, it is ruled in Shulchan Aruch Orach Chaim at the beginning of section 98 that one should not stand to pray (the Shemoneh Esrei prayer which is recited three times daily and is obligatory like other mitzvos from the age of obligation) except after contemplating the greatness of G-d before prayer. The point of contemplation is not to think about the words themselves but about their meaning; and to contemplate G-d’s greatness one must reflect deeply on matters through which a person recognizes what G-d’s greatness is. These are explained in many books, including works of Chassidus. You should try to meet with Rabbi N. Shonkin—Rabbis’ Residence, Romema Jerusalem—and he will show you appropriate sources for these topics.

Regarding your question on how one can attain humility and fulfill the Mishnah’s teaching: "Be exceedingly humble of spirit," study carefully the discourse in Tanya chapter 30 and also ask the aforementioned rabbi who will explain this further to you and direct you to additional sources where further explanation can be found. The same applies regarding other matters and questions mentioned in your letter.

You surely know about the three well-known daily study portions—Chumash, Tehillim, and Tanya—and at least from now on you should keep them regularly.

With blessing, in the name of the Rebbe shlita, Secretary

Summary

Contemplating matters of faith is not only allowed but required for young people; humility can be cultivated through study and guidance. Regular Torah study strengthens both understanding and character.