“A shocking revelation of the crisis in Jewish leadership and what you need to know!”
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Within our cherished Jewish heritage, every rabbi, teacher, and leader—carries the potential to either strengthen the fabric of Klal Israel or, God forbid, to unravel the unity that binds us. It is with a heart burdened by concern, yet buoyed by the hope that wisdom and discernment will guide us, that I address a matter of grave importance to our community and its future.
Our sages, through the ages, have illuminated the path of respectful discourse, highlighting the perilous consequences of division. The Talmud, our revered repository of wisdom, teems with debates that are not conflicts of ego but rather the yearnings of souls in pursuit of Divine truth. It is within this framework, reflecting on the teachings and conduct of certain leaders in our time, that I find an urgent need to offer guidance, deeply rooted in a love for Torah and every Jewish soul.
There are leaders among us who, despite embarking on noteworthy personal transformations and dedicating themselves to disseminating Torah knowledge, have unfortunately adopted methods that stray from the gentle path of wisdom our forebears tread. These individuals, perhaps driven by a sincere wish to awaken the hearts of the Jewish people, might inadvertently sow seeds of division rather than unity, and of confusion rather than clarity.
The true spirit of Torah transcends the mere observance of its commandments; it encompasses the cultivation of a character reflective of its profound, underlying truths: humility, compassion, and an unwavering love for every Jew. The Torah is acquired through forty-eight qualities, including humility, patience, and love for one’s fellow beings (Pirkei Avot 6:6). When leaders prioritize harsh interpretations or judgments over empathy and understanding, they risk estranging those they aim to draw nearer to HaShem.
It is with a heavy heart that I observe the propensity of some to resort to severe rhetoric and to levy criticisms against fellow scholars and rabbis. Such actions not only breach the ethic of loving rebuke but also erode the respect owed to those who have devoted their lives to Torah and the betterment of Klal Israel. The Mishnah instructs us to “judge every person favorably” (Pirkei Avot 1:6), fostering unity and strengthening communal ties.
Moreover, their approach to Torah study and interpretation is profoundly concerning. They often present what is literal in an esoteric manner while treating esoteric teachings as if they were meant to be understood literally, showing a lack of discernment. This inversion fails to acknowledge the depth of Torah, which is meant to be approached with nuance and sensitivity to its multiple layers of meaning. The tradition of PaRDeS, which encompasses the literal, allegorical, ethical, and mystical dimensions of Torah interpretation, celebrates the infinite depth and breadth of Divine wisdom. King Solomon, in his boundless wisdom, taught, “It is the glory of G-d to conceal a matter; to search out a matter is the glory of kings” (Proverbs 25:2). Our engagement with Torah should be marked by humility and awe, recognizing that its teachings invite us to explore with reverence and an open heart.
The impact of a teacher is measured not only by their knowledge transmission but also by their ability to inspire their students to embody Torah values. A teacher’s influence is mirrored in the character of their students, who ought to be beacons of light, love, and unity within the community. If teachings lead to divisiveness, judgment, and a lack of compassion, this indicates a departure from the essence of Torah.
As we stand at this crossroads, let us recall the words of the prophet Micah: “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the L-rd require of you but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your G-d?” (Micah 6:8). Our journey toward spiritual fulfillment requires humility, kindness, and a steadfast commitment to unity.
In navigating the complexities of our era, may we cleave to leaders who truly embody the essence of Torah, inspiring us towards greater love, unity, and understanding in the light of HaShem’s teachings. Together, may we endeavor to mend the world, eagerly anticipating the day when all of Israel will unite in peace and harmony.
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