Igrot Kodesh · Letter 1528 — Health

By the grace of Hashem,

27 Nissan 5712,

Brooklyn,

Greetings and blessings,

I have just received your letter, sent by airmail on the third day of chol hamoed* Pesach*. You write that your son is not developing normally. You request my opinion and my blessing.

I read with satisfaction in your letter that you remember your origins, and your grandfather in particular, who was well known in the chassidic* world, and also your father — may both rest in peace.

I hope that you do not content yourself merely with remembering them, but that you direct your home in a spirit that would gladden not only your father but also your grandfather. In this way the remembrance enables the revelation and internalization of the blessings of Hashem for you, your husband, and your children.

As for the question you raise concerning your son, you know that it is easier to alter a situation when one knows its cause. I therefore hope you will not interpret negatively the following question. You will answer me according to the reality.

Was the conception of your son in purity? In other words, were you then observing the Jewish practices of the mikvah* and taharas hamishpachah* as required? After receiving your reply to this question, I will communicate my opinion.

Even before receiving your reply, I will go at the end of this month to the tziyun* of my father-in-law, the Rebbe. Then I will mention the name of your son, that he be in good health. You will also send me the first name of your husband and that of his mother, as well as the first name of your daughter. Thus I will mention them as well at the tziyun*.

In the meantime it would be good for you to have the mezuzos* of your home checked, to make sure that they are kosher*. Your son should also sleep with a yarmulke* and wear a tallis katan*. Of course, he will eat only kosher*.

With my blessing for you and for all the members of your family,