Rabbi Advises on Talmud Study, Emphasizing Learning from Mistakes
Translated & summarized from Kikar HaShabbat by baba
Rabbi Moshe Yudlov stated that Talmudic educational institutions focus on success rather than teaching students how to learn from failure. He believes that making mistakes is a natural part of human learning and development. Rabbi Yudlov highlighted that even talented students benefit greatly from structured guidance to improve their study methods and overcome potential frustrations in advanced learning environments.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Rabbi Moshe Yudlov says Talmud schools teach success, not how to learn from failure.
- He believes making mistakes is a natural and necessary part of human learning.
- Rabbi Yudlov has provided guidance on Talmud study for over 20 years.
- He noted that even excellent students benefit from structured advice for advancement.
- Guidance helps students articulate their learning process and overcome study hurdles.
Rabbi Moshe Yudlov, in a segment titled "Partner on the Page," discussed the approach to studying the Talmud, noting that "Talmud Torah schools only teach how to succeed, not how to fail." He explained that while angels do not err, humans are created to make mistakes, and this is a natural part of learning. Rabbi Yudlov has spent over 20 years providing guidance to students, young men, and educators on how to develop and succeed in their Talmudic studies.
He shared an anecdote about a scholar who, after years as a supervisor in a yeshiva, sought guidance from Rabbi Moshe Bloy, a well-known counselor. This scholar learned the value of experienced advice and subsequently contacted Rabbi Yudlov for coaching on how to deliver effective lessons as a new "maggid shiur" (lecturer) in a yeshiva.
Rabbi Yudlov observed that many students perceive seeking advice on Talmud study as a sign of weakness. However, he asserts that particularly capable students benefit most from guidance. He pointed out that many students study "automatically," unable to articulate their learning process, which hinders their progress. Furthermore, he noted that even excellent students in large yeshivas can falter after a couple of years if they lack direction on how to advance their studies in a more demanding environment, leading to frustration.
He emphasized that structured guidance can significantly improve a student's learning, citing instances where students who had ceased studying altogether resumed and excelled after receiving systematic instruction. Rabbi Yudlov concluded that the importance of guidance extends beyond those struggling, and is crucial for high-achievers aiming to enhance their abilities.