6424 —הוספת שם לפני נישואין וחיזוק קיום התורה

B"H, 27 Tammuz, 5718 Brooklyn.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

Since there has been such a delay in marriage, if the woman in question is G‑d-fearing and conducts herself as is fitting for proper Jewish daughters (carefully observing family purity, Shabbat, and kashrut in all food and drink along with all mitzvot of the Jewish people), then it is appropriate to convene three rabbinic authorities to rule on the matter: that another name should be added for him, and he should be called up to the Torah and sign with his additional name as well. It is best if the new name comes first. In this case, it does not relate at all to the aforementioned will, provided that the conditions are made after he has established himself for thirty days with the new name.

It is understood and obvious that in any case—and especially in his situation where he needs a special blessing—he must be strong in fulfilling Torah and mitzvot as required and increase in this, as our Sages say: "Ma'alin bakodesh" (we ascend in holiness). Through this, blessings from Hashem and success will be increased for him, especially regarding building a Jewish home—an everlasting edifice based on Torah and mitzvot.

It is appropriate that his tefillin be checked to ensure they are kosher according to halachah, and every weekday before morning prayers he should set aside some coins for charity.

With blessing for good news in all the above,

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that when facing delays in marriage, one may add a name through rabbinic guidance while strengthening observance of Torah and mitzvot. Careful attention to tefillin and daily charity further brings blessing and success in building an enduring Jewish home.