Source: A letter written in the Rebbe's name, 15 Teves 5717: Igros Kodesh, vol. 14, no. 5038, section 3.
In the Alter Rebbe's Shulchan Aruch: Orach Chaim, Siman 1, seif 5.
1. The Principle of Shivisi Hashem L’Negdi Tamid
The very first statement in the Shulchan Aruch—the Code of Jewish Law—is shivisi Hashem l’negdi tamid—“I place Hashem before me always.” This sets the tone for a life lived with constant awareness of Hashem’s presence. But what does this actually require? Does it mean a person must literally think about Hashem and nothing else at all times?
2. The Rebbe’s Guidance on Constant Awareness
The Rebbe once advised an individual to always think about hashgacha pratis—Divine Providence—to help him overcome his personal difficulties and challenges. The individual responded, questioning how he could possibly focus on anything else if he was to be constantly thinking about Divine Providence. Wouldn’t that preclude him from engaging in other necessary activities?
3. Balancing Focus: Learning and Divine Awareness
In response, the Rebbe clarified that while it is indeed proper to have Hashem always before one’s eyes and to maintain an awareness of Divine Providence, this does not mean one should exclusively focus on that thought at all times. For example, when studying Talmud or engaging in any intellectual pursuit, one must concentrate on the subject matter itself. The Rebbe explained that his intention was not for the person to think only about Divine Providence, but rather for this awareness to become deeply ingrained.
4. Internalizing Awareness: Engraving in Memory
The Rebbe elaborated that when an idea is thoroughly contemplated and internalized, it becomes part of a person’s mindset. Even when not actively thinking about it, such an idea remains present in one’s memory and consciousness. Drawing from the teachings found in many ma’amarim—Chassidic discourses—of the Alter Rebbe, the Rebbe emphasized that this kind of deep-rooted awareness influences a person subconsciously.
5. Practical Impact: Overcoming Challenges Through Internalization
When the concept of hashgacha pratis is so well established in one’s mind, even passive awareness can help diminish disturbances and challenges. This is because such disturbances are contrary to the intellectual conclusions one has reached regarding Divine Providence. Thus, having these truths engraved in memory empowers a person to overcome obstacles, as their very presence counteracts doubts or distractions that may arise.