6264 —עצה לצמיחה רוחנית והצלחה בלימוד התורה

Greetings and blessings! In response to your letter from Friday night, in which you ask for advice regarding your matters.

In general, the recommended advice in such cases is the concept of “Shivisi Hashem lenegdi tamid” (“I place Hashem before me always”), which is an explicit verse in Scripture. Moreover, our teacher the Rema, the last halachic authority in Israel, began all four sections of Shulchan Aruch with this to indicate that it is the beginning and foundation of observing Torah. You should study in Tanya Kadisha from the beginning of chapter 41 until page two at the word “hamelech,” and from time to time, whether at home or while traveling, review this by heart—either verbally or at least in thought. When you accustom yourself to the idea that Hashem stands over you as explained there in Tanya, this will naturally refine not only your soul but also your body.

It is also appropriate to know by heart some chapters of Mishnah and at least one chapter of Tanya. Every weekday before prayer, set aside some coins for charity. After prayer each day—including Shabbat and Yom Tov—recite the daily portion of Tehillim as divided for the days of the month. All this will benefit your learning in general and specifically your observance of Torah and mitzvos, as our Sages say: “One who comes to purify himself is assisted.”

b) You also ask for advice for success in Torah study. It has already been said: “If you labored and did not find [success], do not believe it.” This means it depends on you; you have been given the abilities for this. The more you increase your fear of Heaven along with increasing your Torah study, the more Hashem’s blessing will increase accordingly. As stated in Pirkei Avos: “Anyone whose fear [of Heaven] precedes his wisdom—his wisdom endures.”

With blessing for good news.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that spiritual growth and success in Torah come from constant awareness of Hashem’s presence, regular study and memorization of holy texts, acts of charity, heartfelt prayer, and sincere effort combined with awe of Heaven.