Sicha, 20 Menachem-Av 5745
A. The Attribute of Trust
The attribute of trust is a state of inner calm and serenity. In this state we are free from worries and fears because we rely on G-d as a protector and stronghold. (Sources 1-2)
Even when facing difficulties, we must have complete trust that the situation will improve. At the same time, we should pray to G-d and ask Him for healing, sustenance, and all other good things in a revealed and tangible manner. This aligns with the mitzvah of prayer—requesting our needs. (Source 3)
The Talmud tells of King Hezekiah, who did not despair, even after hearing that a decree of death had been issued against him. Instead, he held firm to the principle that “even if a sharp sword rests on a person’s neck, they should not give up on mercy.” He prayed with all his heart, and the decree was overturned. (Source 4)
B. Blessing G-d for Everything
If prayer does not bring about the desired outcome and a person faces a negative event, the Talmud teaches that we must bless G-d for the difficult circumstances just as we bless for good (Source 5). Furthermore, we should accept challenges joyfully, recognizing that everything G-d does is ultimately for the best. Even when this goodness is not apparent, it remains an inherent truth.
We should live with faith in the G-d and fulfill mitzvot with joy. Even when encountering sorrow, it should not change our outlook on life. Our prayer is that the hidden good will be revealed.
C. Everything is for the Best
Two stories from the sages illustrate the principle that everything G-d does is for the best:
First Story:
Rabbi Akiva sought lodging at an inn but was turned away. He spent the night in a field, where the wind extinguished his lamp, a cat devoured his rooster, and a lion ate his donkey. Despite these misfortunes, he declared, “Everything that G-d does is for the best.” The next morning, he discovered that a military troop had raided the town and taken its residents captive (Source 6).
Second Story:
Nachum Ish Gam Zu was sent to deliver a chest of precious gems as a gift to the emperor. On the journey, the jewels were stolen and replaced with sand. When the chest was presented, the emperor was enraged. Suddenly, Elijah the Prophet appeared and suggested that this might be the very sand that Abraham had miraculously transformed into swords. The emperor tested the sand, used it in battle, and was victorious, leading to great honor for Nachum Ish Gam Zu. (Source 7)
The Rebbe analyzes these stories:
In Rabbi Akiva’s case, unfortunate events occurred, yet they ultimately led to him being spared from worse events.
In Nachum Ish Gam Zu’s case, no actual harm occurred; rather, it was revealed that everything was good from the outset.
“Everything G-d does is for the best”—ultimately, goodness will emerge, even if difficulties arise along the way.
“Gam Zu L’Tovah” (This too is for the best)—everything that happens is absolute good. (Source 8)
In summary: When faced with a challenge, we must first trust in G-d and pray for the difficulties to be removed, asking for revealed and tangible goodness.
If hardships persist, we must believe that everything from G-d is truly good. When things seem bad, it is only because the goodness is so elevated that it cannot yet be revealed in this world—it remains a hidden good. (Source 9)
