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Shabbetai Zvi Althaus was a chassidic individual who corresponded with the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, regarding personal, business, and communal matters, as evidenced by the Rebbe’s letter addressed to him in the summer of 5711 (1951).
The letter from the Rebbe to Shabbetai Zvi Althaus responds to Althaus’s inquiry about pursuing a business opportunity referred to as the "Aftover business." The Rebbe expresses support for Althaus’s initiative, referencing a well-known saying from the Rebbe Maharash: "The world says that when you can't go under, you must go over; but I say that one must go over from the outset." This encouragement underscores the Rebbe’s philosophy of proactive engagement and faith in G-d’s assistance. The Rebbe blesses Althaus with material success and urges him to transform material pursuits into spiritual achievements.
The Rebbe also entrusts Althaus with a letter for another individual, Mr. Newman, giving Althaus discretion in how to deliver it. This demonstrates a relationship of trust and practical involvement in communal affairs.
On the occasion of Althaus’s son Shimon’s fourteenth birthday, the Rebbe extends heartfelt blessings for Shimon to become G-d-fearing, a chassid, and a scholar, and wishes the family much nachas and pleasure from all their children. The Rebbe also references recent communal gatherings during the "Festival of Redemption," expressing interest in their impact and encouraging continued strengthening in Torah and mitzvos. The tone of the letter is warm, supportive, and imbued with spiritual guidance, reflecting the Rebbe’s care for both individual and communal well-being.