TRUTH. Those who pursue it find it absolutely illusive; unless Hashem helps. Getting closer to Him involves the mind; but ultimately the mind becomes the obstacle. Getting past the mind and reaching out for divine assistance involves 1) developing a sense of mercy for one’s soul and 2) Reaching out to Him. The Alter Rebbe…

Creation is compared to speech. Thus speech reveals the secrets of the divine creation.The higher worlds reveal more of the divine idea while the lowest world reveals the power of the divine words themselves. Man has the duty of inspiring Hashem (so to speak) to maintain the Speech that is the creation. To accommodate the…

Speech- one of Hashem’s greatest gifts to humankind. This essay argues that the aspects of speech we take for granted are the deepest. Hashem gave them to us to use automatically because if we would need to focus on them it would make speech impossible.

The heart has an Inner and Outer dimension. Both can be exiled and both can be redeemed through Tzedaka (Charity).

Tzedaka accomplishes 3 things (according to Kabbala): 1) bringing light of Mimalei into vessel, 2) revealing sovev light (this requires special “garments”). 3) Brings the “Face” of Hashem forward (there is no garment for this).

Katonti. Humility is closeness to G-d. This letter was written after the Alter Rebbe’s release from prison. His message to his Chassidim- accept the grace and kindness of G-d humbly.

“Chosum Hamishapech”, what is higher in Hishtalshelus is lower in essence. Thus Bittul, Emuna and Halacha have a distinct advantage over higher ideas (Understanding, Learning Gemara). One must use all his faculties never the less.

Theses letters have various themes. among them 1) Tzedaka, 2) Davening, 3) Torah.

Chapters 11-12. The joy of Teshuva. This doesn’t contradict one’s need to be forever vigilant about those things one has been weak about in the past. The Rebbe’s unique idea about positiveness in teshuva in our times.

Chapter 10. Teshuva has two levels but one must go in order- Lower Teshuva leads to higher teshuva.