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 preparation for 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 ability to discuss various Talmudic topics, not on whether they are employed or not. Rabbi Laybel cited numerous historical figures, including early and later authorities, who were also engaged in work, such as Rabbi Chaim of Volozhin who owned a grocery store and Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto who was a diamond polisher. He asserted that working individuals can still be considered wise Torah scholars.

The day began with a lecture on kosher laws by Rabbi Aharon Botbol, followed by study sessions led by various rabbis including Aryeh Wolfson, Avraham Borodyansky, Yehoshua Pepper, Bneiahu Tavila, and Aharon Doar.

After a festive lunch, lectures were delivered by Rabbi Guy Allouf, Rabbi Schneor Rochberger, and Rabbi Dr. Uriel Lewinger, among others. The president of "Achvat Torah," Rabbi M.M. Shafran, concluded the academic portion with a Halachic (Jewish law) lecture on damages, including a question-and-answer session with a rabbinical court.

The event concluded with a motivational talk by Rabbi Ovadia 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."