The Torah's allure is so powerful, rabbis had to warn against misusing it.

Exploring the concept of "limud" (learning) unique to Deuteronomy, we uncover the rabbis' complex relationship with Torah study. From the joy of learning to the fear of misuse, the discussion spans intentionality, secular study, and the power of Torah to attract even non-believers. We delve into the debate between studying "lishma" (for its own sake) vs. applied learning, and examine how different Jewish movements approach Torah study.

The rabbis recognized the profound allure of Torah study, to the point where they had to warn against misusing it for personal gain or pride… or even to make a living. We explore the emergence of the academic and scientific study of our texts as well as contemporary women's yeshivot and secular yeshivot and different rabbinic opinions on the matter, from those who believe any Torah study can lead to observance to those who fear misinterpretation. The segment provides insight into an ongoing debate within Judaism about the nature and purpose of sacred text study.

We conclude with the potential for new insights to arise from diverse groups studying Torah highlighted with the fascinating Talmudic story of Rabbi Meir learning from the heretic Elisha Ben Abuya, illustrating the idea that valuable wisdom can come from unexpected sources.

Key Takeaways

1. The word "limud" (learning) appears only in Deuteronomy, signaling a shift in Torah transmission.
2. Rabbis grappled with the allure of Torah study for non-religious purposes.
3. The debate continues: should Torah study be restricted to believers or open to all?

Timestamps

• [00:00:00] – The episode opens with a provocative framing: Can the Torah survive being studied like secular literature?
• [00:02:00] – Discussion on Tisha B'Av and the idea that Torah learning brings too much joy to be permitted on a day of mourning.
• [00:03:00] – Story from Rabbi Riskin about the heretic who insists he's not a goy, highlighting the irresistible pull of Torah study.
• [00:04:42] – Deep dive into Deuteronomy and the word "limud," and how teaching and learning emerge in the text.
• [00:07:00] – Exploring Maimonides' take on the commandment to teach Torah not just to sons, but to students as children.
• [00:10:00] – Pirkei Avot is introduced, differentiating learning to teach vs. learning to practice.
• [00:13:00] – Cautionary wisdom from the sages: Don't use Torah as a tool for ego or profit.
• [00:17:00] – Talmudic view that learning Torah for the wrong reasons may still lead to righteous practice.
• [00:23:00] – Norman Lamm and others weigh in on secular vs. sacred motivations for Torah study.
• [00:30:00] – The closing story of Rabbi Meir and Elisha ben Abuya explores the value of learning Torah even from a heretic.

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Transcript here: https://madlik.substack.com/