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Shneur Zalman Raskin was a correspondent of the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, during the early 1950s. From the Rebbe’s letters, it is evident that Raskin was involved in charitable activities, supported the publication of Chassidic works, and sought the Rebbe’s guidance regarding personal health, livelihood, and spiritual matters.
The Rebbe’s letters to Shneur Zalman Raskin reflect a warm and supportive relationship, marked by personal concern and spiritual encouragement. In response to Raskin’s requests, the Rebbe mentioned both Raskin and his son at the resting place of his father-in-law, the previous Rebbe, invoking blessings on their behalf. The Rebbe acknowledged Raskin’s involvement in charitable giving, particularly through contributions to Kollel Chabad, and praised his efforts as a source of merit and a channel for Divine blessings, especially regarding health and the ability to study Torah and Chassidus with tranquility.
The Rebbe also addressed Raskin’s concerns about his livelihood, reassuring him that sustenance is decreed by the Alm-ghty and cannot be diminished by others. He emphasized the importance of bitachon (trust in G-d) and serving the L-rd with joy, citing the Zohar and encouraging Raskin to maintain a positive and joyful outlook. The Rebbe highlighted the special merit Raskin had in facilitating the printing of the previous Rebbe’s works, assuring him that this would further support his material and spiritual success.
When Raskin wrote about health challenges and the prospect of surgery, the Rebbe responded with heartfelt blessings for a successful procedure and a full recovery. He drew on the spiritual significance of the month of Adar, relating its astrological sign (Pisces) to the Jewish people’s connection to their spiritual source, and encouraged steadfastness in Torah and mitzvos as a means to draw down healing and blessing. The Rebbe’s tone throughout is one of empathy, encouragement, and unwavering faith in the power of spiritual practice to influence material outcomes.