Once, as a child, the Mitteler Rebbe was asked to explain why the assembled chassidim appeared morose. He replied, "It is clearly alluded to in our prayers: 'Atzabeihem kesef vezahav...' (their idols are of silver and gold, the handiwork of man). The word 'atzabeihem' can also be interpreted as: 'Their depression stems from silver and gold, (i.e., because their thoughts are focused on acquiring another ruble).'"

Sefer HaSichos 5705, p. 108

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There is an expression: "The word gelt, (money) has the same numerical value (112) as the word blote, (mud)." The Rabbis teach us, "Gold was created for the building and the vessels of the Holy Temple."

[In order to reconcile both sayings,] we must know how to interpret them. When one uses money for his physical desires, the money is likened to mud. However, when one uses money for a spiritual purpose, then the money is properly used.

Sefer HaSichos 5703, p. 10