Rabbi Elikim Levanon Urges Restraint in Disputes, Condemns Violence

Rabbi Elikim Levanon, in a recent lecture, addressed the issue of disputes among Torah scholars, emphasizing the importance of maintaining respect and avoiding personal attacks. He distinguished between legitimate criticism of an idea or ruling and the denigration of the individual holding that view. "Disputes are legitimate, but disputes should not lead to contempt," Rabbi Levanon stated, adding, "One can say an opinion is wrong, incorrect, or mistaken, but not to insult the person."

He further elaborated on the upbringing of Torah students, stressing that they should not engage in slander or derogatory speech. Rabbi Levanon's personal rule is to support what is right and oppose what is wrong, but to criticize opinions, not individuals. He applied this principle to halachic rulings, stating that while one can disagree with a scholar's ruling, calling a scholar "not a scholar" is unacceptable.

Rabbi Levanon also spoke out against violence towards Arabs, stating, "I am against violence. We can settle the Land of Israel without violence." He reiterated this point, emphasizing that violence causes more harm than good. He specifically addressed young people in the "Giv'ot" (outposts), calling them "righteous individuals" but urging them to refrain from violence, as it is detrimental.

Regarding criticism of prominent scholars, Rabbi Levanon advised that even if a great scholar errs, their honor should be preserved, and they should not be insulted. He suggested that in cases of disrespect towards a Torah scholar, the appropriate response is internal regret rather than public protests or demonstrations. The Rabbi concluded by stressing the need to raise scholars who are upright, mentally healthy, and spiritually sound, with a clear understanding of their path and boundaries.