... You write that you have already suffered foot ailments a number of times (and I hope that by now you are entirely better).
Perhaps [the time has finally arrived for] you to fulfill the directives of my revered father-in-law, the Rebbe Shlita, simply, without entering into calculations, lengthy meditations, or [continually] asking [my] advice.
This [counsel] is based on Tanya, Iggeres HaKodesh, Epistle 1 and sec. 3 of the maamar entitled Yechayeinu MeiYomayim, in Likkutei Torah, which state that faith is identified with the level of feet.
(Igros Kodesh, Vol. II, p. 305)
In reply to your letter of the 22nd of Iyar in which you write about the pain in your right foot:
In addition to what you are doing through natural means by fulfilling the instructions of the foot doctors, [do the following as well]:
It is explained in many places that tzedakah is the spiritual counterpart to the attribute of the "feet" in physical man, and tzedakah includes the aspect of tzedakah with one's money and tzedakah with one's physical body, i.e., exerting one's body in achieving matters of ahavas Yisrael.
In light of the above, increase your energies regarding the above matters, and G-d will increase His blessings to you spiritually and particularly materially.
(Igros Kodesh, Vol. IX, p. 92)
In reply to your letter of the 26th of Tishrei [in which you write about a problem with your feet]:
I hope that by the time you receive this letter you are already feeling better. Since your problem is related to your feet, which corresponds to and is the [physical] counterpart of the "feet" of the soul — the aspect of faith and the aspect of tzedakah — [try to do the following]:
It would be advisable to know by heart at least the first chapters of the Alter Rebbe's Shaar HaYichud VehaEmunah, in addition to gaining knowledge of the rest of the chapters. In addition, bli neder until after this coming Yud-Tes Kislev, give several coins to tzedakah prior to your weekday prayers.
May G-d grant you success that you be able to convey glad tidings with regard to the improvement of your health. ...
(Igros Kodesh, Vol. XII, p. 40)
I received your letter of last Thursday in which you describe your situation and the pain you are suffering in your right foot:
As known, the spiritual counterpart to a [person's] feet is the aspect of tzedakah and the aspect of faith. Therefore, notwithstanding the difficult financial situation in which you currently find yourself, you should gather strength to make a very strong effort regarding giving tzedakah.
Also increase your belief and faith in G-d, that the "Healer of all flesh and Performer of wonders" will send you His complete healing and recovery and that He will "perform wonders" by completely turning around your situation.
The vehicle and vessel to draw down and receive these blessings are establishing set times in Toras HaNigleh and Toras HaChassidus and scrupulously obeying the mitzvos. May G-d grant you success that you merit to convey glad tidings regarding the above. ...
(Igros Kodesh, Vol. VI, p. 172)
You write about suffering from furunculosis:
[46]
This often comes from overwrought nerves or from the diet you are currently following. By remedying the above even to a small degree, you can achieve an immediate change for the good. Consult about this as well with the doctor whose advice you have sought in the past.
(Igros Kodesh, Vol. XVI, p. 202)
Notes:
- (Back to text) Similar to a carbuncle, or boil.