Rabbi Yaakov Shapira Discusses Yeshiva's Role During Wartime

Rabbi Yaakov Shapira, the head of the Merkaz Harav Yeshiva, has spoken about the profound impact of the ongoing war on the institution and its students. He emphasized that even during wartime, the study of Torah remains crucial, stating that those who learn must continue to learn. Shapira shared a poignant remark from a bereaved father who suggested that perhaps the learning itself was insufficient, a sentiment that deeply resonated with him.

The war has led to many students undertaking long reserve duty periods, with some sustaining injuries. The yeshiva has held sessions with soldiers and provided spiritual reinforcement for students. Shapira believes this period has also fostered a renewed sense of faith and a clearer understanding of the yeshiva's purpose, drawing a parallel to the Yom Kippur War when Rabbi Tzvi Yehuda Kook insisted on continuing religious observances despite the difficult circumstances.

Shapira stressed that the responsibility extends beyond the yeshiva's walls, urging individuals to pray and study for the sake of the soldiers and the nation. He recounted an interaction with a young student who expressed disinterest in prayer, prompting Shapira to explain the importance of prayer for the well-being of the sick and wounded. He also shared an experience at Soroka Hospital where a secular mother, whose son was severely injured, found solace in speaking to God, illustrating that prayer is always accessible.

The yeshiva's core mission, Shapira clarified, is to cultivate "talmidei chachamim" (scholars of Torah), a concept he defines broadly to include individuals who embody Torah principles in all professions, not just rabbinical roles. He cited his father, Rabbi Avraham Shapira, who taught that a yeshiva is not merely a factory for rabbis but a place to foster wise individuals in any field.

Shapira also highlighted the importance of educators being deeply connected to their students, sharing a story from his father about a teacher who didn't know the name of a problematic student's mother, signifying a lack of personal engagement. He also touched upon the need to strengthen the military rabbinate to better support religious soldiers. Reflecting on the 2003 terrorist attack on the yeshiva that killed eight students, Shapira stated the leadership chose to transform grief into strength and vitality.

He concluded by offering three lessons from his father's legacy: the idea that Torah dances with us, signifying a deep connection; the importance of being part of a larger Torah community beyond one's immediate institution; and the principle of taking spiritual responsibility for one's surroundings, recognizing that the entire Jewish people is one unit. He also added a crucial point about self-reflection, urging individuals to view themselves with kindness and to cultivate their inherent strengths.