Writing B”H on Letters

Questions: One of our teachers encourages us to write ב"ה at the top of our work, while another has advised against it. Which approach is correct?

Answer: The Gemara (Rosh Hashana 18b) relates that the Yevanim decreed that the Jewish people must not mention Hashem’s Name. In response, the Chashmonaim instituted that every letter should include Hashem’s Name. However, Chazal later annulled this practice, fearing that such letters might ultimately be discarded. As a result, the Rema (YD 276:13) rules that one must take care not to write sheimos in letters.

R’ Ovadia Yosef (Yechave Daas 3:78) quotes the Chida, who permits writing abbreviations even if they allude to Hashem’s Name. Although the Rogatchover Gaon (Tzafnas Paneach 196) disagrees, R’ Ovadia maintains that writing ב"ה at the top of letters is a longstanding minhag and is permissible.

R’ Moshe Feinstein (Igros Moshe YD 2:138) writes that while he is not overly concerned about the destruction of such letters, it may not be appropriate to write ב"ה on secular correspondence. R’ Moshe Sternbuch (Teshuvos Vehanhagos 1:640) adds that the Vilna Gaon did not include it in his letters either. Nevertheless, both suggest that those who wish to begin with a religious expression may instead write בס"ד, which stands for bisyata dishmaya, “with help from Heaven” (see Aruch Hashulchan YD 276:28).

In conclusion, there are differing customs regarding writing ב"ה at the top of a page. Many Chassidim are particular to do so, others prefer to write בס"ד instead, while some avoid writing anything at all.