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Menachem Nachum Auerbach is identified in the correspondence as the secretary of the Bnei Yisrael synagogue and an active figure in communal Jewish life. He is noted for his involvement in the spiritual and organizational aspects of synagogue affairs, as well as for seeking the Lubavitcher Rebbe's guidance on behalf of his son.
The Lubavitcher Rebbe's letter to Menachem Nachum Auerbach (dated 26 Tammuz, 5711) addresses several key themes. Firstly, the Rebbe acknowledges receiving a pidyon nefesh (prayer request) from Auerbach, relayed through Rabbi Shlomo Zalman Hecht, on behalf of Auerbach's son, Meir Ze'ev, who was then in Korea. The Rebbe assures Auerbach that he will read the pidyon nefesh at the resting place of his father-in-law, the previous Rebbe, and expresses hope for good news regarding his son.
The Rebbe also discusses Auerbach's role as secretary of the Bnei Yisrael synagogue, emphasizing the secretary's crucial influence on the vitality and spiritual life of the congregation. He encourages Auerbach to maintain and enhance public Torah study, proper conduct of prayers—especially on Motzaei Shabbat and festivals—and the daily recitation of Tehillim after Shacharit. The Rebbe further highlights the importance of mourners putting on tefillin, noting that this practice can lead to lifelong observance. The tone is warm, respectful, and motivating, with the Rebbe invoking the teaching that "we only encourage those who are already eager."
The Rebbe concludes with blessings for Auerbach and his community, referencing the synagogue as a "miniature sanctuary" and connecting their efforts to the ultimate redemption and the rebuilding of the Holy Temple. He also acknowledges Auerbach's charitable donation, noting its special significance.