8367 —גידול הזקן והשפעתו על פרנסה

B"H, 22 Adar II, 5722. Brooklyn.

Shalom u'Vrachah!

In response to your letter from Tuesday, the day that is doubly good, in which you write about the matter of growing a beard and how this affects livelihood when the time comes to establish oneself in earning a living in the literal sense.

Since everyone agrees that a grown beard is the concept of tzelem Elokim (the image of G‑d), and all agree it is far superior to the opposite conduct—as is evident even from those who do not say that growing a beard is an absolute Torah obligation, as explained in their books—it is certain that increasing in holiness and having the tzelem Elokim apparent on one's face increases all blessings from Hashem Yisborach, Who sustains the entire world with His goodness, grace, kindness, and mercy. It is solely upon Him that a person's livelihood depends. It follows that fulfilling one's desire to grow a beard increases his livelihood in particular.

Especially according to the words of the holy Zohar that the greatness of the beard (in the language of Zohar—called Yud-Gimmel Tikunei Dikna) in a person below draws down from Above the Thirteen Attributes of Mercy which are without limit. Clearly this path benefits a person and aids his livelihood. See also the explanation of my revered father-in-law, the tzt"z, in his commentary Yahal Or on Tehillim (p. 6).

It is proper to have your tefillin checked to ensure they are kosher according to halachah, and also to maintain the three daily study portions: Chumash, Tehillim, and Tanya as is well known.

Blessings for good news in all mentioned above.

Summary

The Rebbe teaches that growing a beard enhances one’s spiritual stature and brings increased blessing for livelihood. He encourages maintaining mitzvah observance such as checking tefillin and daily Torah study for continued success.