Rabbi Lipkowitz Challenges Notion of Talent in Torah Study
Translated & summarized from Kikar HaShabbat by baba
During a Hakafot Shniyot ceremony at Meshenot HaTorah yeshiva in Bnei Brak, Rabbi Moshe David Lipkowitz stated that success in Torah study depends on will, not talent. He shared a story of his mother seeking a blessing from Rabbi Chazon Ish, who praised her understanding of true desire. The event, led by Rabbi Ephraim Cohen, featured fervent singing and spiritual awakening late into the night.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Rabbi Moshe David Lipkowitz asserted that Torah study success hinges on will, not talent.
- He shared a story where Rabbi Chazon Ish praised a mother's request for her children's desire to learn.
- The mashgiach emphasized the importance of "opening our hearts to His Torah."
- The message was delivered during the Hakafot Shniyot at Meshenot HaTorah yeshiva in Bnei Brak.
- The event was led by Rosh Hayeshiva Rabbi Ephraim Cohen and continued late into the night.
During the Hakafot Shniyot (second circuits) ceremony at the Meshenot HaTorah yeshiva in Bnei Brak, Rabbi Moshe David Lipkowitz, the mashgiach (spiritual supervisor), delivered a message challenging the common belief that success in Torah study is solely dependent on exceptional talent. He emphasized that true success stems from the student's will and desire, not just innate ability.
Rabbi Lipkowitz articulated this point while leading the participants in prayer, specifically focusing on the phrase "He will open our hearts to His Torah." He contrasted this with a hypothetical request for "He will open our talent," highlighting that the prayer is for an opening of the heart, signifying that Torah is accessible through desire and will, not just talent.
To illustrate his message, Rabbi Lipkowitz shared a story about his mother, Chava Esther, who sought a blessing from the revered Rabbi Chazon Ish for her children. She asked that her children would have the desire and the ability to learn. The Chazon Ish reportedly expressed admiration for women who understand how to ask for blessings, emphasizing that the essence of learning lies in the heart's desire.
The ceremony, which took place at the yeshiva's grand sanctuary on Ben Yaakov Street, was attended by Rosh Hayeshiva Rabbi Ephraim Cohen, other rabbis, and hundreds of students and alumni. It continued late into the night with fervent singing and spiritual awakening, with Rabbi Lipkowitz leading the congregation in the song "Baruch Elokeinu Shebaranu Lichvodo" (Blessed is our God who created us for His glory).
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