Rabbi David Laybel Addresses Torah Scholars and Working Men at "Achvat Torah" Conference

Over 600 participants gathered at the Ramada Hotel in Jerusalem on Wednesday for the fourth annual "Yarchei Kallah" conference hosted by the "Achvat Torah" movement. The day-long event, dedicated to Torah study and lectures in anticipation of the new year and Yom Kippur, featured a central address by Rabbi David Laybel, president of "Achvat Torah."

Rabbi Laybel's address focused on the importance of mutual responsibility and the place of the working man within Torah scholarship. He emphasized that the definition of a "Talmid Chacham" (a wise Torah scholar) in Jewish law, according to the Rama, is based on one's knowledge and ability to discuss Talmudic topics, not on whether they are employed or not. Rabbi Laybel cited numerous early and later authorities, including Rabbi Chaim of Volozhin who owned a grocery store, and Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto who was a diamond polisher, as examples of great scholars who also worked.

The day began with a lecture on kosher laws by Rabbi Aharon Botbol, followed by study sessions led by various rabbis. After lunch, lectures were delivered by Rabbi Guy Allouf, Rabbi Shneur Rochberger, and Rabbi Dr. Uriel Lewinger, among others. The president of "Achvat Torah," Rabbi M.M. Safran, concluded the academic portion with a halachic lesson on damages, including a question-and-answer session with a rabbinical court.

The conference concluded with a motivational talk by Rabbi A. Hamani, accompanied by musician Shai Kehler, and a subsidized sale of "Arbaat Haminim" (the four species used on Sukkot) for attendees. Rabbi Yitzchak Kossovsky-Shor, director of communities and the "Rosh Hakahal" center, noted the overwhelming attendance, stating, "There is a huge demand for Torah activities that connect the world of Torah with practical life. We will continue to work with all our might to increase and glorify Torah."