7603 —על גזיזת הזקן ומשמעותו הרוחנית

B"H, 18 Adar, 5721. Brooklyn.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

In response to your letter from the 10th of Adar.

At an auspicious time, all those you wrote about will be mentioned at the holy resting place of my revered father-in-law, the Rebbe zatzal (may his merit protect us), in accordance with what you wrote. May it be G‑d's will that just as you wrote your request, so too you will receive good news in this matter.

Regarding your question about growing your beard and the suggestion by some to "straighten" it: It is unclear what you mean by "to straighten." In my opinion, based on your letter, there is no reason to trim even for straightening purposes. If this were merely a good custom that had been practiced for some time, one would need to consider carefully how to stop such a practice—how much more so in this case. The tzt"z rules that this is not just a good custom but an obligation. Someone who has acted according to the Rebbe's directive—it is incomprehensible and would raise great astonishment if he were suddenly to change this practice.

Perhaps by "straighten," you mean using a comb (even though there are rare individuals who are especially meticulous about this and, as it is said, did not touch their beard hair). As above, only rare individuals have practiced such stringency; you may straighten your beard with a comb. In doing so, you will also fulfill the mitzvah of honoring your mother as discussed above.

As for the concern that perhaps the beard hinders matters of importance—it is astonishing even to consider this possibility! For our Sages' view is explicit and undisputed: The thirteen attributes of the beard are channels for influence and receiving blessing from Above. Certainly they only help in desirable matters—especially in finding a truly good match.

May you receive good news regarding all of the above. I also acknowledge that you have reassured your mother (may she live long) with pleasant ways and clear words as appropriate according to what was written above.

As per your request, this letter was sent without delay.

Blessings for good news in all of the above in the name of my revered teacher and Rebbe shlita.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that trimming or altering one's beard is not permitted according to chassidic tradition and halachic ruling; maintaining it brings spiritual blessing and aids in positive life matters such as finding a suitable match.