Professional Documents
Culture Documents
CHAVRUSA
May 2017 Sivan 5777 (: ) Volume 51 Number 2
Richard M. Joel
P R E S I D E N T, R I E T S
This series will examine themes in the biblical books of the Second
Halacha and Torah principles are at the core of our value system Temple Period. Insights into the critical period of restoration and
and serve to guide us as we live meaningful Jewish lives. This the simultaneous decline of prophecy will be developed. Topics
series will explore the relevant and complex interplay between include: EzraA Miracle of History; HaggaiImminent Potential
Halachic and ethical concepts and contemporary society. Topics for Redemption; ZechariahG-d is Hidden, but Ready to Reveal
include: 21st Century Shidduchim, Journalism, Marketing and Himself; EstherWhat they didnt teach us in day school; Ezra and
the Truth, Intellectual Property in the Digital Age, Lashon Hara NehemiahDifferent Models of Leadership; MalachiThe End of
Page 6 Feature
10:30 11:30 a.m. 11:45 a.m. 12:45 p.m.
MAX AND MARION GRILL DEAN Course Dates: Wednesdays, February 8, 15, 22, March 1, 8, 15
Yeshiva Universitys midtown campus
CHAVRUSA
A P U B L I C AT I O N O F R I E T S R A B B I N I C A L U M N I
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In Pictures
Purim 5777
March 11, 2017
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YU Community News
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YU Community News
Straus Center and CJF Present The Zahava and Moshael Straus Center for Torah and Western Thought,
Yeshiva Universitys Center for the Jewish Future and the
Abraham Arbesfeld Kollel Yom Rishon and Millie Arbesfeld Midreshet Yom Rishon present
discussion on Pesach and the Future of thought as well as a treasure trove of The First Work of Political Thought:
A New Approach to the Haggadah
Seder Night: How Maimonides Can
Help Us Understand the Exodus
Jewish Thought on Sunday, March 26 insights that have been an essential part Sunday, March 26, 2017 10 a.m.
Yeshiva Universitys Wilf Campus
2017 at Yeshiva Universitys Lamport of the intellectual heritage of the Jewish 500 West 185th Street New York, NY 10033
Midreshet Yom Rishon, the event the Commonwealth for 22 years and
celebrated the publication of Books of the was recently named the winner of the
People: Revisiting Classic Works of Jewish 2016 Templeton Prize, is the author, This program provides an
Thought by the Universitys Zahava and among many other books, of A Guide opportunity to enrich the experience
Moshael Straus Center for Torah and for the Perplexed at the Seder Night: How of the Pesach Seder with the insights
Western Thought. Maimonides Can Help Us Understand the and perspectives of two great scholars
Rabbi Dr. Meir Soloveichik, director Exodus. He recently served as Kressel and in Jewish thought, said Rabbi Yaakov
of the Straus Center and assistant Ephrat Family University Professor of Glasser 01R, the David Mitzner Dean of
professor of Judaic studies, describes Jewish Thought at YU. CJF. n
with over 375 participants from North 21st Century Shidduchim, Journalism, rabbi Daniel Z. feldman
Rosh Yeshiva, Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological
Seminary; Faculty, Sy Syms School of Business
rabbi Hayyim angel
Undergraduate Bible Studies Faculty,
Yeshiva University
and South Jersey, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Marketing and the Truth, Intellectual
and Wurzweiler School of Social Work, YU
This series will examine themes in the biblical books of the Second
Halacha and Torah principles are at the core of our value system Temple Period. Insights into the critical period of restoration and
Queens and the Five Towns. This lecture Property in the Digital Age, Lashon Hara and serve to guide us as we live meaningful Jewish lives. This
series will explore the relevant and complex interplay between
Halachic and ethical concepts and contemporary society. Topics
the simultaneous decline of prophecy will be developed. Topics
include: EzraA Miracle of History; HaggaiImminent Potential
for Redemption; ZechariahG-d is Hidden, but Ready to Reveal
series program is held at Stern College and Blogs, and Political Campaigns.
include: 21st Century Shidduchim, Journalism, Marketing and Himself; EstherWhat they didnt teach us in day school; Ezra and
the Truth, Intellectual Property in the Digital Age, Lashon Hara NehemiahDifferent Models of Leadership; MalachiThe End of
and Blogs, and Political Campaigns. Prophecy and Transition to the Rabbinate. Learn how strikingly
relevant these books are to our modern age.
for Womens Israel Henry Beren Campus In the second session, Prophecy in 10:30 11:30 a.m. 11:45 a.m. 12:45 p.m.
This semester in the first session, Second Temple era, developing insights For weekly sponsorship opportunities or for more information, please contact:
Rabbi Aryeh Czarka or Julie Schreier
sternlearn@yu.edu 212.960.5400 x 6826
Rabbi Daniel Z. Feldman 98R 06YY, into the critical period of restoration and School; Ezra and Nehemiah: Different
Rosh Yeshiva, RIETS and instructor at Sy the simultaneous decline of prophecy. Models of Leadership; and Malachi: The
Syms School of Business and Wurzweiler Topics include Ezra: A Miracle of End of Prophecy and Transition to the
School of Social Work, presented a series History; Haggai: Imminent Potential for Rabbinate.
of lectures titled Halachic Observance Redemption; Zechariah: G-d is Hidden Plans for the upcoming fall semester
in the Information Age, exploring the but Ready to Reveal Himself; Esther: are underway. For general questions about
relevant and complex interplay between What They Didnt Teach Us in Day this program, contact sternlearn@yu.edu. n
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Chag HaSemikhah 5777
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Chag HaSemikhah 5777
The Musmakhim
*Yadin Yadin
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T
More Than 130 Newly-Ordained Rabbis Celebrate at Triennial Convocation
he streets of Yeshiva
Universitys Wilf Campus
hummed with excitement
as more than 130 new graduates of RIETS
gathered to celebrate their ordination at
the March 19 Chag HaSemikhah.
Together with their families, friends
and Roshei Yeshiva, the musmakhim
danced and sang together outside Zysman
Hall as they marked the continuity of a
beloved mesorah being passed down to a
new generation of spiritual leaders.
In a day filled with festivities and
brimming with pride, the graduates of
the 2014-2017 classes joined more than
3,000 rabbinic alumni who have gone
on to become distinguished Orthodox
rabbis, scholars, educators and leaders
around the world.
In todays celebrants, Yeshiva
hookups in the Harry Fischel Beit musmakhim when he said that a primary
embraces the continuity of our profound
Midrash and YUs Caroline and Joseph impulse in pursuing rabbinic ordination
mission of advancing Torah values, so as
S. Gruss Institute in Jerusalem, and an was the desire to professionalize my
to guide, teach and lead our people and
online webcast. Approximately 1,800 passion for Torah by becoming a rabbi.
the world to a better place, said President
people were on campus for the event, and This fall, he and his wife Miriam will
Richard M. Joel. As musmakhim of
close to 8,000 people viewed it online. become Orthodox Union-Jewish Life on
Yeshivas Rabbeinu Yitzchak Elchanan,
The musmakhim currently living in Campus educators at the University of
you have been trained in leadership,
Israel will hold a ceremony at the Gruss Maryland.
you have been prepared to serve as our
Institute on June 8, 2017. Rabbi Jason Grossman 17R, from
ambassadors of nobility, spreading the
This class of rabbis represents an Lawrence, New Yorkgrandson of the
warmth of Torah by constantly fanning
internationally diverse group, hailing late RIETS Rosh Yeshiva Rabbi Zerubavel
its flames. Your actions matteryour
from five continents and more than 50 Zelo Schussheim 48R, ztlsought
commitment to Torah inspires people
North American cities. While most of the semikhah because he felt the need to
and elevates the world.
musmakhim will remain engaged in either serve the community at large and help
President-elect Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman
full-time post-semikhah Torah study or in people develop their relationship with
95R, looking out over the musmakhim,
religious work such as Jewish education, God and reach higher spiritual levels. He
said, If you are to be rabbis, you must
the pulpit, outreach or nonprofit is currently working as a chaplain at St.
impart chochmah and exude anavah
management, many will pursue careers Johns Hospital in Far Rockaway.
but you must live with ahavahwith
in other professions, including medicine As they go on to build their careers,
love. If you do so, you will make Gods
and law. the new musmakhim will benefit from the
Name more beloved in this world.
Rabbi Elie Schwartz 17R, unique education they received at RIETS.
The Chag HaSemikhah ceremony
originally from Cleveland and now In addition to intense religious study with
took place in the Nathan Lamport
living in Chicago, spoke for many of the renowned Torah scholars, the seminary
Auditorium at Zysman Hall, with video
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Chag HaSemikhah 5777
offers an enhanced Rabbinic Professional prodigious knowledge of Kol HaTorah the greatest description that we can have
Education Program designed to meet the Kula, the open warmth of a rebbe, the of youa lifelong Ben HaYeshiva.
communal and spiritual needs of todays courage of a posek, and the understanding In addition, special
Jewish communities. heart of a gentle man, to enrich our world, acknowledgement was given to RIETS
Students receive extensive training said President Joel to Rabbi Schachter. As alumni whose grandsons received
in topics critical for public leadership a talmid muvhak of the Rav, much of what semikhah at this years ceremony, as well
positions, such as pastoral psychology, you teach others is your understanding as to musmakhim celebrating their 50th
public speaking and community of the legacy of the Rav. How appropriate anniversary. All the musmakhim heard
building, all taught by renowned that your Yeshiva honors our Rav Muvhak divrei bracha from Rabbi Shlomo Amar,
experts and rabbis. Theyre also exposed with the conferral of the HaRav Yosef Dov former Chief Rabbi of Israel and current
to contemporary halakhic issues in Halevi Soloveitchik Aluf Torah Award. As Chief Rabbi of Jerusalem.
bioethics, technology and business to we recognize you on the 50th anniversary The Chag HaSemikhah is a singular
prepare them for real-world dilemmas of your serving as a Rosh Yeshiva, and event celebrating Yeshiva, our community
they may face. celebrate you at this Chag HaSemikhah, and our future, said Rabbi Menachem
A new mental health emphasis we invite our young musmachim to savor Penner 95R, the Max and Marion Grill
also provides musmakhim with critical and anticipate how they can impact on our Dean of RIETS and Undergraduate Torah
self-care tools as they manage the world. Studies at YU. Our opportunity to honor
stresses and challenges of a life of RIETS also commissioned the Rav Hershel Schachter and Rabbi Julius
public service. Rabbi Yossi Jacobs 17R writing of a Sefer Torah in Rabbi Berman takes this excitement to an even
pursued semikhah concurrently with a Schachters honor, with events in Los higher level.
psychology degree because he wanted to Angeles; New York City; Passaic and Following the ordination ceremony,
be able to integrate the two in order to Teaneck, New Jersey; and the Five Towns RIETS held a Gala Evening of
help people by empowering their Torah to enable Rabbi Schachters talmidim to Celebration honoring Rabbi Schachter
understanding while also helping them participate in the process. and Rabbi Berman at the Grand Hyatt
face their challenges in life. Chairman Emeritus Rabbi Julius Hotel. In addition, philanthropist Dr.
During the ceremony, RIETS Berman 59R was honored with the Eitz David Arbesfeld was presented with
honored Rosh Yeshiva and Rosh Chaim Award at the Chag HaSemikhah. the RIETS Service Award. The dinner
Kollel Rabbi Hershel Schachter 67R, You have spent your life championing raised more than $1 million for RIETS.
Nathan and Vivian Fink Distinguished the causes of the Jewish people, To learn more or to support RIETS, visit
Professorial Chair in Talmud, with the President Joel told Rabbi Berman. The www.yu.edu/riets. n
HaRav Yosef Dov HaLevi Soloveitchik Eitz Chaim Award, our Yeshivas most
ztl Aluf Torah Award. prestigious honor given to a lay leader,
You bring the rigor of Talmud, the affords us the opportunity to recognize
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T
President, RIETS
oday marks the fourth one. face, and G-d says no. But then G-d says
and final opportunity I And almost 85 years ago, our first stand beside me.
have to address a Chag president, Dr. Bernard Revel ztl, stood at Rav Sampson Raphael Hirsh explains:
HaSemikhah as Yeshivas president. It has this podium and said the following, Out there is a place next to
been a sacred privilege. of the portals of this sanctuary of the Me. One and only one point of view exists
Today, we celebrate over 130 spirit shall come a Jewish leadershiplay as the highest goal to be attained by the
young men of extraordinary quality and spiritualconscious of its unique highest human mind, even for Moses, only
and character who I have seen grow heritage, striving to develop in this land one legitimate point of view, and that is not
in learning and in middos and in a Jewish life, culturally creative and to try and get a sight of God, but, elevated
professionalism. spiritually satisfying, based upon the by God, and godliness, to look at men and
And today, I know that you join eternal foundations of the Torah, helping the human condition from a height, next
me in celebrating the extraordinary our communities to fuller self-expression, to God, near to God, from Gods point of
Roshei Yeshiva and Hanhala of Yeshivas and richer contribution to the cultural view, to understand and appreciate all men
Rabbeinu Yitzchak Elchanan whom I and spiritual values of our society. and all conditions of human life.
have had the pleasure to partner with. So I stand here today on the This master insightthe human
In todays celebrants, Yeshiva shoulders of those who came before me, being is not supposed to see G-dits
embraces the continuity of our profound and I contemplate, what can I possibly not our realm. Our goal is to stand beside
mission of advancing Torah values, so as to add to this discussion? To this continuing God. Our role is not to see G-d, but to see
guide, teach and lead our people and the conversation? as G-d sees, and strive to do as G-d does.
world to a better place. Almost 40 years To me, parashat Ki Tisa offers a Beloved musmakhim: Hear the
ago, President Norman Lamm stood at this precious perspective on how we, klei message from four presidents of this
podium and shared the following message: kodesh, and lay kodesh, are to lead our Yeshiva, and consider that:
Scholarship and piety are necessary, lives, a message that has been a defining Be a caring role model;
but they are not sufficient. A spiritual insight for my life and I think for that of Believe in the Jewish People;
person is one whose ideals and practice my wife and children. Dare to make a difference in the world;
transcend his self-interest, whose Perek lamed gimmel details an And strive to see as G-d sees and do
deportment and, indeed, very presence amazing discussion between Moshe and as G-d doesvehalachta bdrachav.
symbolizes the values of Torah. the Ribbono Shel Olam, culminating with As musmakhim of Yeshivas Rabbeinu
Years before that, at an earlier Chag Moshe beseeching God to let Moshe see Yitzchak Elchanan, you have been trained
HaSemikhah, his predecessor, Dr. Samuel G-ds face, Hareini na es kevodecha. G-d in leadership, you have been prepared
Belkin ztl, shared the message that, responds to serve as our ambassadors of nobility,
There is one thing we must remember
spreading the warmth of Torah by
always. Just as we have faith in God, And He said, You will not be able to see My constantly fanning its flames. Your actions
and just as we have faith in the Torah of face, for man shall not see Me and live. matteryour commitment to Torah
Moses, so let us have faith in the Jewish
inspires people and elevates the world.
people, in the continuous miracle of its And the Lord said: Behold, there is a place Esther and I are entrusting our
rebirth. Let us have faith in the miracle of next to me, and you shall stand on the rock. children and our grandchildren to
spiritual unity between G-d, His Torah Such a dramatic momentMoshe you. Partner with them and with all
and His people, which is summed up in wants to see G-ds face. As close as Moshe our children to advance the Torah and
the sayings of our Sages, Israel, the Torah was to the Ribbono Shel Olam, he was advance the world.
and the Holy One Blessed Be He, are hungry for more. He wanted to see G-ds Vcheyn yehi ratzon. n
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O
Rabbi Dr. Ari Berman95R
President Elect, RIETS
ver the course of the last few Talmudic teaching. The Torah command to love God. As such it
months I have had the great commands: Love the Lord your God applies to each and every Jew. Rambam,
pleasure to meet a number (Deuteronomy 6:5). While this verse however, prescribes this teaching as
of Yeshiva Universitys fine rabbinical appears straightforward, the Gemara a requirement for a person of great
graduates. Allow me to share the story of (Babylonian Talmud, Yoma 86a) cites a wisdom, and places it specifically in the
one particular encounter. rabbinic interpretation that points to an context of the mitzvah of kiddush Hashem,
A number of weeks ago, I was additional layer of meaning. the sanctification of Gods Name. The
introduced to a young man and I asked It is taught: Love the Lord your notion of a sliding scale of behavioral
him to tell me a little bit about his time God, such that the name of God should expectations, depending on how learned
in the Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological become beloved through you. one may be, is part of a larger theme in
Seminary. He replied by recounting to me How can a mere human being make Rambams works. But for the moment I
a very difficult situation that arose in the Gods Name even more beloved? The wish only to highlight that according to
course of his family life several years ago. Gemara continues: Rambam, the sage is not only required to
Even with the distance of time it was clear One should read Torah, and study adhere to a higher standard of conduct,
that this situation was too emotionally Mishnah; serve Torah scholars; and be he is also distinguished by a unique set
charged for him to describe in great detail. pleasant in all ones personal interactions. of opportunities. In this case, the one
But whatever the exact circumstances, Follow this tripartite formula, the who is recognized as a chakham, a sage,
the situation required expert halakhic Talmud advises, and the name of God will possesses an extraordinary opportunity
guidance. So he approached his teacher, become more beloved in the world. to sanctify Gods Name in this world.
one of the senior roshei yeshiva in this There is a debate among the People judge religion by its adherents.
institution, explained the situation, and Talmudic commentators over how Their experiences of Judaism, Torah
asked him for his counsel. to interpret this teaching. The simple and God are shaped and inspired by
Do you know what his response reading of the Gemara, which appears their interactions with His messengers.
was? the young man asked me. to be accepted by all of the medieval On some level this applies to all of us
My rebbe began to cry. It was one of authorities who simply cite it verbatim, who are clearly identified as Jews, but it
the darkest moments in my life. There was is that it comprises part of the general applies even more so to rabbis. As such,
not much that anyone could give me. But
he gave me his tears. My family and I look
back on that difficult time with much grief
and regret. But completely intertwined
with that experience is the memory of
a rabbi who both answered my halakhic
question and honored my pain. We will
never forget that as long as we live.
This is the story of a person whose
life was transformed by his encounter
with a rabbinic leader and it raises a
broader question. What does it mean to
be a rabbi? What does it take for a rabbi
to be a transformative force in this world?
The answer may lie in a crucial
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the very idea of receiving semikhah, the words of Matthew Arnold, to the with thoughtful professionals, sensitive
rabbinic ordination, carries with it great thoughts which make the furniture of parents, and people of substance with a
consequences. For each of you today their minds, and directly relate to the wealth of experience. They have much to
who are being publicly recognized as specific challenges and opportunities offer and much from which you can learn.
musmakhimordained rabbisare not of our times. Now this may sometimes Take advantage of their insight. Learn
only being rewarded for your years of require you to challenge some elements from their life lessons. They are not just
Torah study, but are also being granted an of contemporary culture. But to be an your parishioners, they are your partners.
enormous opportunity to fundamentally effective and respected countercultural You will need to lead and speak with
alter the world in which we live. voice as opposed to one who is written wisdom, but also approach your new role
How can you best capitalize on off as simply out of touch you will need with the humility to learn from all those
this opportunity? How can you most to acquire a deep familiarity with the around you. Impart chokhmah; exude
effectively utilize your strengths to intellectual and cultural milieu of our day. anavah.
sanctify Gods Name in this world? Using In this context, in order for one to The Gemaras third and final
the Gemara as a homiletical guide, allow speak with chokhmah, one needs to have suggestion is to behave with ahavah, with
me to suggest a three-pronged strategy. deep insight into both Torah and reality. love: Be pleasant in all ones personal
First, you must speak with The Gemaras second suggestion is to interactions.
chokhmahwith wisdomand to do act with anavahwith humility: Serve I only began genuinely to understand
this you must learn deeply: Read Torah Torah scholars. the possibility of loving someone outside
and study Mishnah. Know what you know and know what of ones family as oneself after working
Your greatest resource is the Torah; you do not know. As the Mishnah says, as a rabbi, for my community became
your greatest strength is that you the wise man is not the one who knows my extended family. Working with them
represent a 3,000-year-old tradition. everything but the one who continuously day and night building our synagogue,
You must be sure to do so judiciously learns from others. Be secure enough in facing deficits and challenges, formulating
and authentically. And so you must be yourself to seek advice and counsel. ambitious plans for expansion and
learned. You have already succeeded in This is of course true in respect to success; grieving with them over the loss
completing a rigorous process of semikhah your rabbis, teachers and peers. You have of a loved one, adding a name to a sick
that required you to have displayed a a large support network here at Yeshiva child who suddenly fell perilously ill or
mastery of Torah. But you must continue University that will always be ready to celebrating the birth of a child to a couple
your studies. The vistas of Torah are vast, assist you. I myself, all throughout my who previously thought that they would
and you must explore them with great years in the rabbinate until today, have never have children. I thought of them
passion and vigor. been deeply blessed with the ability to in my personal prayers, spent sleepless
But more than just developing as turn to my rabbis and teachers at Yeshiva nights considering ways to ease their
lamdanim, as rabbis you also need to University as resources and guides to troubles, and felt true joy upon hearing
develop a deep understanding of the help me think through challenges of great of their triumphs. This, too, is what you
broader world and modern reality. You complexity and consequence. But it is have learned by example from your
will need to speak directly to the hopes also true of your lay leadership, parents, rebbeim and teachers at Yeshivathat the
and concerns of this generation, in and students. Our community is filled responsibility of the rabbi, educator and
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spiritual guide is to love ones students adversaries, but of partners and potential words of benediction that in the girsa,
and congregants, to be moved by them partners. It is the rabbi who when faced or textual version, of the medieval
and inspired by them. with a halakhic dilemma responds not commentator, Rosh (R. Asher b. Yechiel),
If you are to be rabbis, you must only to the question but also to the serve as the coda to our Gemara. The
impart chokhmah, exude anavahbut person; who not only has the depth of Gemara concludes this section with the
you must live with ahavah, with love. knowledge to know the answers but also assurance of what will happen if one
And if you do so, you will make Gods the humanity to cry. It is the rabbi who is behaves with chokhmah, anavah and
Name more beloved in this world. not fueled by fury or self-righteousness ahavah.
You our dear students have an but by love, care and concern. What will humanity say of such
enormous gift and opportunity, and this is It is this kind of rabbi who is deeply a person? Fortunate is his father, his
especially true today. There are those who needed in our world. mother, and his teacher who taught him
think that in todays climate of nihilistic This is your gift and this is your Torahsee how pleasant are his ways,
individualism, in which claims to opportunity. You as rabbis, educators, how proper his deeds. It is about such a
authority or transformative leadership are and spiritual guides can show by word one as this that the Lord says, You are my
mocked, the role of the rabbi, educator and deed that personal engagement servant, Israel, in whom I will be glorified
and spiritual guide is diminished. But in with Torah and mitzvot, living a life that (Isaiah 49:3).
truth the opposite is the case. These roles accents service over entitlements, giving May the praises of the prophet be
are even more necessary today. People as opposed to receiving, and a life in said about you as well, our dear talmidim.
naturally seek meaning and purpose; which one participates in the incredible May you continue to be a source of great
they will always find their role models unfolding story of the Jewish people pride to our Yeshiva and to your families,
and sources of inspiration. The question and seeks the betterment of the broader May you be a blessing to all those with
is whether they will find it outside of our societythat such a life is filled with whom you come into contact. And
tradition or within our tradition. The great meaning, purpose and true joy. through your actions May Gods Name
rabbi is certainly needed, but what kind of You can bring God into this world, become even more beloved in this world.
rabbi? What does it take for a rabbi to be sanctify His name and sanctify the lives of We need you. The world needs you.
a transformative force in this world? those around you. Alu ve-Hatzlikhurise up, and find great
Today, perhaps more than ever What a berakhahwhat a blessing! success. n
before, it is to embrace this formula of Ashrekha! What an inspiring and
This speech was originally published in
chokhmah, anavah and ahavah. It is the meaningful manner in which to channel
Tablet magazine, at tabletmag.com, and is
rabbi who speaks with sophistication your energies and to which you may
reprinted with permission.
and humility; who views the Jewish devote your unique talents and skills.
world not through the prism of allies and Allow me to close, then, with the
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I
confess to some cognitive the Gemara in Menahot assert that
dissonance in paying simply reciting the Parshat HaChatat
simultaneous tribute to the pesukim describing the chatatis
both my grandfather, Rabbi Dr. Norman sufficient substitute for bringing the
Lamm 51R, and our Yeshiva. After all, offering? Surely R. Yishmael recited
for all that my grandfather is inextricably korbanot every morning, so why would
bound to this institution, in many ways he he feel the obligation to bring a fresh
represents its opposite, or at least its stark korban in the Messianic Era?
counterpart. The Emek Halakhah ultimately
For instance, our Yeshiva is the answers by referring to the halakhic
institutional personification of Lithuania, principle kohanim okhelim bealim
with all the cerebral, academic precision mitkaperin. According to this dictum, a
of that tradition. My grandfather, by chatat, even if formally valid, does not
contrast, represents the heritage of Galicia achieve atonement for its bearer unless Rabbi Ari Lamm
with all its witty, whimsical creativity. the meat of the chatat is consumed
Our Yeshiva taught us the majesty of by the kohanim, by the priests. Now, human consequences. Will a kohen
tzvei dinim, two concepts underpinning simply reciting the Parshat HaChatat, who might in another era have served
a rabbinic dispute, while my grandfather according to Rabbi Baumol, is equivalent in the Temple have something to eat
always marveled at the possibilities of solely to the act of sacrificing the chatat. today, or will he go hungry? While you
shivim panim, of Torahs seventy faces. The But since such a recitation provides no may formally discharge your obligation
foundation of our curriculum in Yeshiva sustenance to any actual kohanim, it by reciting these pesukim, realize that
consists of the Gemara and rishonim does not result in genuine atonement. R. this decision may dramatically impact
the raw material out of which halakhah Yishmael therefore resolved that when the daily existence of a living, breathing
and halakhic values are shaped. But the opportunity presented itself in the human being. There are kohanim who
whenever I learned with my grandfather, age of the Third Temple, he would bring may not eat on account of our having
we would study teshuvotthe literary a new, more effective korban from which discharged our obligations merely
culmination of the halakhic process. he could provide meat for the kohanim, through mouthing the Parshat HaChatat.
Is there not then some unresolvable notwithstanding having already recited And herein, I believe, lies the
tension at the heart of this evening? the Parshat HaChatat. coherenceeven the necessityof
A resolution may emerge from the In other words, we may conceive of honoring both our Yeshiva and not just
very first teshuvah my grandfather and I reciting the Parshat HaChatat in two ways. my grandfather, but all our grandfathers,
ever studied together, a teshuvah by his First, it is an abstract act with conceptual and all of our families. That is, for Torah to
grandfather, R. Yehoshua Baumol ztl, consequences. Has a theoretically valid thrivefor our religion to become not just
the Emek Halakhah. Therein, the Emek substitute korban been offered or not? The a dull habit, but an acute feverwe require
Halakhah wonders how the Gemara answer is the same no matter who brings both a Yeshiva and our grandparents.
could relate that R. Yishmaelhaving the korban, and whether or not a kohen We require our Yeshiva for the
transgressed on Shabbosrecorded has eaten from it. This sort of analysis treats purpose of treating us all equally. Our
in his ledger that upon the Temples all people equally. Yeshiva teaches us that no matter who we
rebuilding he would bring a korban But in addition, reciting the Parshat are, we all must learn the same Rambam,
chatat, a sin offering. After all, doesnt HaChatat is a particular action, with the same Milchamot, the same Ketzot.
14
C H AV R U S A S I VA N 57 7 7
Chag HaSemikhah 5777
By doing so, our Yeshiva transforms us who must eat from the korban. They our Torah. They remind us that Torah has
from individuals into a united collective. remind us of the human element of Torah. not just metaphysical consequences, but
Into Klal Yisrael writ large. Our Yeshiva They remind us of the beautifully unique world-historical consequences.
represents the formal korban itself. individuals whose contributions shaped May it be Gods will that as we go
But our grandparentsand in my life, our personal journeys through the peaks forth into careers of Avodat Hashem,
my grandfather especiallyalways remind and valleys of halakhah. And they remind we bring pride and nachat to both our
us of the reverse. They are the kohanim us of all the souls that are impacted by Yeshiva and our grandparents. n
ON DEMAND
Choose from these initial courses available later this summer
15
C H AV R U S A S I VA N 57 7 7
Chag HaSemikhah 5777
Ve-Haarev Na:
The Transgenerational Kinyan Ha-Torah
Rabbi Itamar Rosensweig 14R
Special Remarks from the RIETS Annual Dinner Evening of Tribute
T
he rishonim are puzzled by the name of Rav Yochanan, the berakhah
two aspects of ve-haarev na, is in fact patterned after Rav Yochanans
the second berakhah of the derashah in Bava Metzia 85a:
birkhot ha-Torah we recite each morning.
First, as the Baal ha-Maor (Rif Berakhot
5b) observes, why do we have multiple
berakhot for the single mitzvah of talmud
Torah? Why isnt the first berakhah, la-asok , .
be-divrei Torah, sufficient? .
Second, as Rabbenu Manoach notes Hashem says, if you can secure three
(Hilkhot Tefilah 7:10), ve-haarev na is generations of talmidei chakhamim, Ill
typically interpreted as a request that guaranteeani areivyour family a
the experience of talmud Torah should perpetual legacy of talmidei chakhamim
be pleasant or sweet. But where do we for future generations as well. This Rabbi Itamar Rosensweig
ever find a berakhah asking for a maaseh Gemara is the source for ve-haarev na.
mitzvah to be pleasant? Imagine if, in The Sefer ha-Manhigs grounding or sweeten. Rather, it should be
addition to al akhilat matzah, we made of ve-haarev na in Bava Metzia 85a has understood in the manner that it appears
a berakhah asking for the matzah to be two important ramifications. First, as the in that Gemara in Bava Metziaani arev
tasty? Further, as some achronim press, Manhig himself contends, the proper lekha be-davar zehas guarantee. We
doesnt the request of ve-haarev na girsa of the berakhah should read ask Hashem that if we succeed in securing
infringe upon the principle of mitzvot lav . Since the three generations of talmidei chakhamim,
leihanot nitnu? whole import of the berakhah is about he should guaranteehaarev naa
To address these questions, let us securing three generations of talmidei family legacy of Torah for future
examine the nature of the berakhah of chakhamim, the berakhah ought to generations.
ve-haarev na. specify three generations. But what is the significance of three
The Sefer ha-Manhig (Dinei Tefilah Second, as R. Yehudah ben Yakar generations? And why should it feature so
no. 19) argues that ve-haarev na is actually points out (Peirush ha-Tefilot ve- prominently in our birkhot ha-Torah?
a berakhah on securing three generations haBerakhot le-Rabbenu Yehudah ben Yakar The Maharal, in his commentary to
of talmidei chakhamim. Although ve- II, pg. 22), the word ve-haarev should Bava Metzia 85a (Chidushei Aggadot s.v.
haarev na is introduced in Berakhot 11b in not be interpreted as make pleasant
RIETS celebrated the semikhah of eleven musmakhim whose grandfathers are also musmakhim of RIETS
Rabbi Tuvia Brander 15R and Rabbi Aaron Brander 59R Rabbi Shlomo Clark 14R and Rabbi Matthew Clark 56R
Rabbi Yakov Danishefsky 16R and Rabbi Dr. Chaim Danishefsky zl 46R Rabbi Noam Friedman 17R and Rabbi Abraham zl Insel 45R
Rabbi Noach Goldstein 17R and Rabbi Dr. Noah Goldstein zl 53R Rabbi Jonathan Grossman 17R and Rabbi Zelo Schussheim zl 48R
Rabbi Ari Lamm 15R and Rabbi Norman Lamm 51R Rabbi Elchanan Poupko 16R and Rabbi Baruch Poupko zl 42R
Rabbi Itamar Rosensweig 14R and Rabbi Bernard Rosensweig 50R Rabbi Ashie Schreier 17R and Rabbi Max Schreier 52R
Rabbi Yaakov Taubes 17R and Rabbi Chaim Schulman zl 52R
16
C H AV R U S A S I VA N 57 7 7
Chag HaSemikhah 5777
17
C H AV R U S A S I VA N 57 7 7
Chag HaSemikhah 5777: Meet the Muskmakhim
T
Profiles
High Schools
he Yeshiva community
celebrated the ordination
of more than 130
musmakhim at its Chag HaSemikhah
Convocation on March 19, 2017. While
most will remain engaged in either
full-time post-semikhah Torah study
or religious workJewish education,
the pulpit, outreach or non-profit
workmany will pursue careers in other
professions, including medicine and law.
Its no accident that Rabbi Andrew
Israeli and Rabbi Michael Hoenig, two
new rabbis who just celebrated their
semikhah, find themselves back in the Rabbi Andrew Israeli 17R Rabbi Michael Hoenig 14R
18
C H AV R U S A S I VA N 57 7 7
Chag HaSemikhah 5777: Meet the Muskmakhim
calculated person. Life is tough, and thats Education and Administration. Dr. texts that I remember sitting one-on-one
why I think the rebbeim at RIETS are an Pelcovitz in particular was unbelievable with my rebbeim and learning. We have
incredible compass on how to behave. his advice, wisdom and the Jewish values the ability to pass on the mesorah in an
As an undergrad I spent he brought to his course were incredible, authentic and genuine way. When I look
six semesters learning with Rav and the teaching modeled by Dr. Ilana at my rebbeim and what they have been
Koenigsberg, said Rabbi Israeli. As I Turetsky was very eye-opening and able to accomplish with their talmidim,
continued into semicha, I went to learn informative, said Rabbi Hoenig. I am immediately impacted and feel a
in the Gruss Kollel where I spent two full responsibility to push myself to be the
years learning with Rabbi Dovid Miller When I look at my best rebbe I can be.
71R and Rabbi Assaf Bednarsh 97R. I Rabbi Hoenig and Rabbi Israeli
also had the zechut to develop very close rebbeim and what are joined by many other accomplished
relationships with Rav Hershel Schachter they have been able RIETS musmakhim making an impact
67R, Rav Mayer Twersky 85R and at yeshiva day schools and high schools
Rav Zvi Sobolofsky throughout my six to accomplish with around the world.
summers in the NCSY Kollel. their talmidim, I am The spiritual and professional
The two also benefited from the journeys of RIETS rabbinic alumni do
diversity of their fellow musmakhim. immediately impacted not end here, said Rabbi Yaakov Glasser
Theres such a range of hashkafot and feel a responsibility 01R, David Mitzner Dean, Center for the
and personalities in the program, Jewish Future. It is strengthened as they
and thats also a beautiful thing, said
to push myself to be the participate in Rabbinic Yarchei Kallah
Rabbi Hoenig. Its incredible how best rebbe I can be. programs and continuing education
RIETS accommodates a wide range courses. These innovative and substantive
of philosophies and everyone walks Armed with that holistic preparation, programs provide our Rabbinic alumni
out equipped to serve their own mentorship and deep familiarity with with resources and skills that enable them
communities. I dont think you could find Torah studies, Rabbi Hoenig and Rabbi to continue making a positive impact on
that anywhere else in the world. Israeli have both quickly become beloved their communities and schools. n
In addition to their rabbinic training, at their schoolsand the feeling is
Rabbi Hoenig and Rabbi Israeli sought out mutual. This section is a continuation of the
the most advanced teaching techniques Being in chinuch, I find my days to Musmakhim profiles that appeared in the
and knowledge in Jewish education as be overflowing with meaning, said Rabbi Adar 5777 Chavrusa. To request a copy
they earned their masters degrees at Israeli. I have the ability to sit one-on- please contact chavrusamagzine@yu.edu.
YUs Azrieli Graduate School of Jewish one with students and engage and analyze
19
C H AV R U S A S I VA N 57 7 7
Chomer Lidrush
BAtzeret al
Peirot HaIlan
Rabbi Meir Goldwicht
Joel and Maria Finkle Visiting
Israeli Rosh Yeshiva, RIETS
20
C H AV R U S A S I VA N 57 7 7
Chomer Lidrush
Chukim only refer to statutes. When a child is born, the Gemara in to be Shetulim bveit Hashem. As long
comes from the word , and Gittin says that there is a custom to plant as the shatil (plant) grew up in the house
therefore, it refers to an engraving. one type of tree for boys and another of Hashem, you can be sure that it will
Becoming a person in whom the Torah is type of tree for girls. When the children succeed on the outside as well.
engraved, that he and the Torah are one, grow up, we use the branches of these On Shavuot we are judged based on
requires tremendous ameilut. This is the trees to hold up the wedding canopy. The the extent that we are rooted in the house
symbolism behind - , which prominent role that trees play in every of Hashem. For the favorable outcome of
ultimately leads to new beginning is meant to serve as a this judgement, we will merit to blossom
] (e.g., Man[ reminder that every time a person starts in the Chatzrot Elokeinu. As the next
.): something new, in order for it to blossom, verse continues, we further merit:
For this reason, we find trees grow, and succeed, he must remember (
associated with every new beginning in how his avodah relates to the three ):
the history of Am Yisrael. Immediately aspects of the tree; thus encouraging him They will continue to be fruitful in their
after Yetziat Mitzrayim and the splitting of to be serious about Tefillah, Torah, and old age, they will be full of sap and richness.
Yam Suf, the Torah says, Maasim Tovim. May we internalize these lessons and
(... ...
... Every Shabbat we say, live by the pasuk:
.): :) ( .
Those ): (
Hashem showed him [Moshe] a tree planted in the house of Hashem will blossom And he shall be like a tree planted by
and the waters became sweet. in the courtyards of our L-rd. streams of water. n
When the Jewish people enter the Beit Hashem is the Beit Midrash;
Land of Israel the Torah commands them Chatzrot Elokeinu is where one goes after This article was compiled by Rav
to plant trees. he leaves the Beit Midrash. In order for Goldwichts students.
( everything to blossom and be successful
.): in the Chatzrot Elokeinu, one first needs
Were you
Koveah
time to learn today?
Daily Learning
What you want,
when you want,
at the pace you want
21
C H AV R U S A S I VA N 57 7 7
Chomer Lidrush
Vital in its approach and vibrant in its tradition, the Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary is the Western Hemispheres
leading centerVital
forinTorah
its approach
learningand
and vibrant
trainingin
foritsthe
tradition, the Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary is the
rabbinate.
Western Hemispheres leading center for Torah learning and training for the rabbinate.
The Yeshiva has trained more than 3,000 of the worlds Orthodox rabbis, scholars and teachers. With their rich grounding in the
The
full spectrum of Yeshiva has trained
our hallowed more
tradition, than 3,000
graduates of the
assume worlds
a broad Orthodox
range rabbis,
of leadership scholars
roles in the and teachers.
community while ensuring the
With their rich grounding
perpetuation of Jewish scholarship. in the full spectrum of our hallowed tradition, graduates assume a broad range
of leadership roles in the community while ensuring the perpetuation of Jewish scholarship.
RIETS is not just a world-class Yeshiva. It is the center of our community. The success of the Yeshiva is evident in communities
RIETSSupport
around the world. is not just
foraRIETS
world-class Yeshiva.
is support It strength
for the is the center of our community.
and preservation The success
of the centrist of the
Orthodox Yeshiva
community.
is evident in communities around the world. Support for RIETS is support for the strength and preservation
of the centrist Orthodox community.
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
$25,000 Sponsor a RIETS student for a year and create a Yissachar/Zevulun relationship
$25,000 Sponsor a RIETS student for a year and create a Yissachar/Zevulun relationship
$18,000 Provide a rabbinic intern to a Jewish community and help train the next generation
$18,000 Provide
of spiritual a rabbinic intern to a Jewish community and help train the next generation
leadership
of spiritual leadership
$10,000 Dedicate in perpetuity a Yahrzeit Day of learning in memory of a loved one at RIETS*
$10,000 Dedicate in perpetuity a Yahrzeit Day in memory of a loved one at RIETS*
$7,500 Dedicate an issue of the Benjamin and Rose Berger Torah To-Go distributed to Jewish communities
$7,200 Underwrite the yearly stipend of a member of the Marcos and Adina Katz Kollel
across the globe
$5,000 Sponsor a semester of a professional rabbinics course to help train the next generation
$7,200 Underwrite the yearly
of Jewish stipend of a member of the Marcos and Adina Katz Kollel
leaders
$5,000 $3,600
SponsorDedicate
a semestera RIETS Shabbat program
of a professional rabbinicson the Wilf
course Campus
to help train the next generation
of JewishBecome
$2,500 leaders a weekly sponsor of the Marcos and Adina Katz YUTorah.org, with
$3,600 Dedicatemore thanShabbat
a RIETS 15,000 weekly
programvisits
on the Wilf Campus
$1,800 Dedicate a shiur for a week of a senior Rosh Yeshiva
$2,500 Become a monthly sponsor of the Marcos and Adina Katz YUTorah.org, with
$1,000 Dedicate
more than 15,000 aweekly
day ofvisits
Torah scholarship at RIETS to mark a simcha or yahrzeit
$1,800 $500
DedicateSponsor an aAbraham
a shiur for week of aArbesfeld Kollel
senior Rosh Yom Rishon or Millie Arbesfeld Midreshet
Yeshiva
Yom Rishon lecture in memory of a loved one
$1,000 DedicateDedicate
$360
a day of Torah scholarship at RIETS to mark a simcha or yahrzeit
sefarim to the Yeshivas beit midrash
$500 Sponsor an Abraham Arbesfeld Kollel Yom Rishon or Millie Arbesfeld Midreshet
*For a gift Yom Rishon
of $1,000, RIETS lecture in the
will have memory of aKaddish
Mourners loved one
recited for your loved one and will ensure the designated yahrzeit date
will be observed with Kaddish in perpetuity. Kaddish is recited three times daily during the 11 months of mourning, and then annually
on the date of the yahrzeit. Additionally, a designated representative of the Yeshiva will recite the Kel Malai Rachamim prayer on the
appropriate date. Each
*For a gift of $10,000, RIETS year, prior
will ensure thetodesignated
the yahrzeit date, you
yahrzeit willwill
date receive a notice acknowledging
be observed with Kaddish the upcoming observance
in perpetuity. Kaddish isofrecited
the yahrzeit.
during
the 11 months of mourning, and then annually on the date of the yahrzeit. Each year, prior to the yahrzeit date, you will receive a notice
acknowledging
Forthe upcoming
more observance
information onofmaking
the yahrzeit.
a gift or bequest to RIETS, please call 212.960.0852, email riets@yu.edu
or visit www.yu.edu/riets/giving
For more information on making a gift or bequest to RIETS, please call 212.960.0852, email riets@yu.edu
or visit www.yu.edu/riets/giving
22
C H AV R U S A S I VA N 57 7 7
Yeshiva University-RIETS acknowledge the members of the Elef LMateh Society
Rabbi Hyman Arbesfeld* Rabbi Ephraim Buchwald Rabbi Shraga Goldenhersh Rabbi Chemia Kleinman Rabbi Dr. Eli Rybak
Kew Gardens, NY New York, NY Baltimore, MD Jerusalem, Israel Clifton, NJ
Rabbi Dr. Kenneth Brander* Rabbi Alan G. Ciner Rabbi Meir Goldwicht Rabbi Benjamin Krinsky Rabbi Dr. Shlomo F. Rybak
Teaneck, NJ New York, NY New York, NY Teaneck, NJ Passaic, NJ
Rabbi Aaron Brody* Rabbi Judah Dardik Rabbi Yosef Gottesman Rabbi David Lapp Rabbi Hershel Schachter
Flushing, NY Neve Daniel, Israel Bronx, NY Fair Lawn, NJ New York, NY
Rabbi Marvin H. Rabbi Michael Davies Rabbi Jonathan Grossman Rabbi Hyman Levine Rabbi Fabian Schonfeld
Goldman* Charleston, SC Flushing, NY Queens, NY Flushing, NY
Silver Spring, MD
Rabbi Edward Davis Rabbi BZ Halberstam Rabbi Yosie Levine Rabbi Joel Schreiber
Rabbi Neil Hecht* Hollywood, FL Passaic, NJ New York, NY New York, NY
Brookline, MA
Rabbi Moshe Davis Rabbi Abraham Rabbi Zalman Levine Rabbi Efrem Schwalb
Rabbi Jacob Hoenig* Charleston, SC Halbfinger zl Teaneck, NJ West Hempstead, NY
Brooklyn, NY
Rabbi Dr. Herbert Dobrinsky Rabbi Zvi Herman Rabbi Haskel Lookstein Rabbi Allen M. Schwartz
Rabbi Elazar Muskin* Riverdale, NY Mevaseret Zion, Israel New York, NY New York, NY
Los Angeles, CA
Rabbi Ira Ebbin Rabbi Basil Herring Rabbi Dr. Marc Mandel Rabbi Yehuda Septimus
Rabbi Moshe Neiss* Merrick, NY New York, NY Newport, RI North Woodmere, NY
Riverdale, NY
Rabbi David Eckstein Rabbi Shlomo Hochberg Rabbi Leonard Matanky Rabbi Nisson E. Shulman
Rabbi Marvin B. Pachino* Baltimore, MD Jamaica Estates, NY West Rogers Park, IL New York, NY
Jerusalem, Israel
Rabbi Dr. Ricky Ehrlich Rabbi Gary Menchel Rabbi Shmuel Silber
Rabbi Menachem Penner* Passaic, NJ West Hempstead, NY Baltimore, MD
Holliswood, NY
Rabbi Zvi Engel Rabbi Ari Perl Rabbi Tuvia Silverstein
Rabbi Myron Rakowitz zl* Skokie, IL Atlantic Beach, NY Far Rockaway, NY
Lawrence, NY
Rabbi Baruch Englard Rabbi Irwin Peyser zl Rabbi David Snyder
Rabbi Daniel Turkel* Brooklyn, NY Atlantic Beach, NY New York, NY
Flushing, NY
Rabbi Tobias Feinerman Rabbi Israel Polak Rabbi Elon Soniker
Yonkers, NY Teaneck, NJ West Hempstead, NY
We recognize the following Rabbinic Alumni for their 5777 dues gift of $100:
Rabbi Shlomo Appel Rabbi Richard Auman Rabbi Reuven Berman Rabbi Harold Tzvi Bernstein Rabbi Hillel Bick Rabbi Jack Bieler Rabbi Gideon Black
Rabbi Yaakov Blau Rabbi Michael Bloom Rabbi F. Meier Brueckheimer Rabbi Dr. Kenneth Chelst Rabbi Noah Cheses Rabbi Asher Gabriel Dordek
Rabbi Dr. Isaac Ehrenberg Rabbi Shaul Leib Epstein Rabbi Amichai Erdfarb Rabbi Moshe Erlbaum Rabbi Mordechai Eskovitz Rabbi Menachem Feinsod
Rabbi Shimon Feld Rabbi Kalman Feldman Rabbi Michael Fine Rabbi Howard Finkelstein Rabbi Stanley M. Fogel Rabbi Ezra Frazer
Rabbi Raffi Glickman Rabbi Ezra Goldschmiedt Rabbi Sidney Goldstein Rabbi Jonathan Gordon Rabbi Leonard Greenblum Rabbi Reuven Grodner
Rabbi Chaim Hagler Rabbi Dr. Yitzchak Handel Rabbi Michael Hecht Rabbi Joel Hecker Rabbi Nathaniel Helfgot Rabbi William Herskowitz
Rabbi Steven Hirschey Rabbi Jacob T. Hoenig Rabbi Samuel N. Hoenig Rabbi Sidney Hook Rabbi Herbert Horowitz Rabbi Harry Menachem Kagan
Rabbi Joshua Kahn Rabbi Yisroel Kaminetsky Rabbi Joseph Kanefsky Rabbi Eliot R. Kaplan Rabbi Raphael Katsman Rabbi Jerome Katz
Rabbi Avi Kilimnick Rabbi David Klavan Rabbi Gershon Klavan Rabbi Doniel Z. Kramer Rabbi Yirmiyahu Lebowitz Rabbi Bertram Leff Rabbi Hirsh Lewitan
Rabbi Menachem Linzer Rabbi Norman Linzer Rabbi Elchanan Lipshitz Dr. David Luchins Rabbi Marc H. Messing Rabbi William Millen
Rabbi Michael Miller Rabbi Steven Miodownik Rabbi Eliezer Mischel Rabbi Eddie Mittelman Rabbi Avi David Narrow-Tilonsky Rabbi Fred Nebel
Rabbi Jeffrey Neuman Rabbi Joseph Oratz Rabbi Milton Polin Rabbi Gary Pollack Rabbi Kenneth Pollack Rabbi Daniel Price Rabbi David Radinsky
Rabbi Dr. Neal Z. Ringel Rabbi Dr. Bernhard H. Rosenberg Rabbi Stanley Rosenberg Rabbi Eliyahu Safran Rabbi Dr. Richard Schiffmiller
Rabbi Ira Schnall Rabbi Marvin Schneider Rabbi Chaim Schnur Rabbi Bruce Schwartz Rabbi David Seff Rabbi Mendel Shapiro Rabbi Dr. Moshe Sherman
Rabbi Dr. Joshua Shuchatowitz Rabbi Joseph Siev Rabbi Zev S. Silber Rabbi Dr. Eric Siskind Rabbi Aryeh Spiegler Rabbi Moshe Stavsky Rabbi Robert H. Stein
Rabbi Glenn Stengel Rabbi Jeremy Stern Rabbi Marvin Sugarman Rabbi Dr. Joseph Sungolowsky Rabbi Isadore M. Tennenberg Rabbi Reuven Tradburks
Rabbi Baruch Tribuch Rabbi Leonard Tribuch Rabbi Aryeh Tuchman Rabbi David A. Twersky Rabbi Mayer Twersky Rabbi Richard Vale
Rabbi Samuel A. Weiss Rabbi Shlomo Weissberg Rabbi Jacob Weitman Rabbi Matan Wexler Rabbi Emanuel White
Rabbi David Winter Rabbi Yosef Wolicki Cantor Richard Wolpoe Rabbi Benjamin Yudin Rabbi Alan Yuter Rabbi Eugene Zaveloff Rabbi Mordecai Zeitz
Rabbi Myron F. Zundell Rabbi Oran Zweitler
As of 5/17/2017
Join us in supporting our Yeshiva and its vital activities, please visit: yu.edu/riets/alumni
Feature
Rabbi Shlomo Weissmann is Menahel of the Beth Din of America. He is a graduate of Columbia Law School, where he
was a Harlan Fiske Stone Scholar. Prior to his association with the Beth Din of America, Rabbi Weissmann worked as an
attorney at several prominent law firms, including Debevoise & Plimpton LLP.
CHAVRUSA: What makes your role CHAVRUSA: How has the training
at Beth Din of America unique from at RIETS impacted your role at the
all other forms of rabbanus that you Beth Din of America?
have encountered?
There was no semicha class that taught
In some ways my role is similar to that me how to administer a contemporary
of a traditional rabbi. People who utilize beit din, but the limud haTorah and psak
our services are often very vulnerable. halacha skills that I acquired from my
Some are entangled in emotionally trying mentors and Roshei Yeshiva at RIETS
disputes, some are getting divorced from are invaluable in the work that I do. The
their spouses, some are facing the horrible values taught and practiced at RIETS
specter of igun. So we try to help them heavily shaped my personal outlook on
through. My job is also to explain halachic many issues.
practices, such as the Get process, or
sometimes even the concept of chalitza. CHAVRUSA: Tell us about the
These notions may be challenging, relationship between the Beth Din
unfamiliar and clash with modern of America and Yeshiva.
sensibilities.
The two organizations have deep ties. The
But my role is also unique, because
rabbinic staff of the Beth Din consists Rabbi Shlomo Weissmann
the Beth Din of America is a very unique
entirely of musmachim of RIETSRabbi
organization. In much of the work I do
Gedalia Dov Schwartz 49R, Rabbi
Im wearing my lawyer hat more than members of dinei Torah conducted by the
Michoel Zylberman 10R and myself
my rabbi hat. This is especially true Beth Din, and we have jointly published
along with current Roshei Yeshiva of
in our administration of dinei Torah, The Journal of the Beth Din of America,
RIETS, Rabbi Mordechai Willig 71R
where secular legal questions relating to which features articles on beit din
and Rabbi Yona Reiss 02R. We have
arbitration procedure arise all the time. jurisprudence and reproductions of piskei
a joint program with the Yadin Yadin
Our process must comply with secular din issued by the Beth Din. We maintain
Kollel, which provides opportunities
law in order for our piskei din to be a satellite din Torah room at the Glueck
for shimush and observation by kollel
enforced by the courts. Center, which we use frequently for dinei
25
C H AV R U S A S I VA N 57 7 7
Feature
Torah. Each year, we hire interns at the CHAVRUSA: In what ways can also the beit din of first resort for many
Beth Din from RIETS. rabbis and mechanchim support people who, for whatever reasons, did not
the communal goals of the Beth sign a prenup and now find themselves in
CHAVRUSA: How does the Beth the position of seeking to arrange a Get
Din?
Din resolve todays complicated with a recalcitrant spouse. We send out
issues? One way is by educating people about hazmanot (invitations/summonses) to
the importance of utilizing batei din to appear before the Beth Din and, when
The Beth Din of America conducts its resolve disputes, rather than resorting necessary, we issue seruvin (documents
business by successfully integrating to secular courts. Halacha prohibits of contempt) to signal that an individual
Torah laws and values with contemporary litigation in secular court in most has not complied with his or her halachic
secular knowledge, something closely instances, but resolving disputes through obligations in this realm.
tied to the philosophy of RIETS and rabbinic mediation or arbitration is also
Yeshiva University. When we needed less expensive and more efficient than CHAVRUSA: After working as a
to resolve the 9/11 agunah cases, we court litigation, not to mention the corporate lawyer, what motivated
utilized sophisticated investigative skills, confidentiality benefits. you begin a career in Jewish
including reliance on DNA evidence. communal work?
When we resolve commercial disputes CHAVRUSA: How has the Beth Din
that derive from transactions in the been effective in addressing the I practiced in the area of commercial real
secular marketplace, the dayanim include aguna issue? estate transactions, and I enjoyed the
lawyers and businessmen so that we challenge and stimulation of working
can properly analyze the facts and the The Beth Din is known internationally on interesting deals. But I knew that
commercial customs that often determine for its prenuptial agreement (available avodas hakodesh would represent an
the outcomes of the cases. Mental health at www.theprenup.org). This document, opportunity to do something really
professionals sit on cases that involve which was introduced by Rabbi meaningful on a daily basis. n
child custody determinations and other Mordechai Willig more than 20 years ago,
sensitive psychological issues. has been enormously successful. We are
27
C H AV R U S A S I VA N 57 7 7
JEWISH EDUCATION HAS
ALWAYS BEEN YOUR PRIORITY.
With its balance of Limudei Kodesh and challenging academics, we knew YU would provide our children
with the preparation needed for their careers as professionals, as well as reinforce the religious ideals
that they will take with them in all that they do. The same values that permeated the walls of YU when we
attended 35 years ago are the very values that we chose to inculcate in our children. Today, our daughter
is a sophomore at Yeshiva University. We are thrilled with the education she is receiving and her growth in
Torah. She couldnt be happier.