Rabbi Biyovitch Discusses Faith, Purpose, and Love in Deep Interview

Rabbi Eliyahu Biyovitch, Rosh Yeshiva of "P'tei Shearim" in Nachlaot, shared profound insights on faith, purpose, and enduring love during an extensive interview with Eli Gutelfeld on "Kikar FM." The conversation, which began with a personal anecdote about a broken phone and a prayer of gratitude, evolved into a two-hour exploration of life's significant questions.

Rabbi Biyovitch presented two primary approaches to faith during crises: that of Rabbi Akiva, who believes all that God does is for the good, and Nachum Ish Gam Zu, who says "this too is for the good." He explained the subtle but crucial difference, emphasizing that while Rabbi Akiva's approach acknowledges not seeing the good immediately but trusting in a larger divine plan, Nachum Ish Gam Zu's perspective implies seeing the good even in the present moment. The Rabbi stressed the importance of accepting reality while striving for self-improvement, quoting the verse "Happy is the man who listens to me, to strive at my doors day by day." He also touched upon finding one's purpose, suggesting introspection through questions like "What am I good at?" "What do I love?" and "What does my environment need from me?"

The discussion also delved into the challenges of maintaining focus in an age of constant distractions, particularly concerning the sanctity of relationships and the struggle with "the covenant of our generation" amidst endless temptations. Rabbi Biyovitch referenced a dream by Rabbi Tzaddok HaKohen of Lublin, which connects the souls of the current generation to those of the generation of the flood, suggesting a potential for renewal. He likened the struggle to channeling primal urges into creative output, emphasizing that concentration is key.

Furthermore, Rabbi Biyovitch redefined "Gehenna" not as a place of fire and brimstone, but as regret, and highlighted the necessity of faith in oneself to embrace repentance and change. He also addressed the common feeling that Jewish law (Halakha) can be burdensome, reframing it as an anchor in a chaotic world that guides life's inner movements rather than opposing them. The interview concluded with reflections on love and faith, emphasizing that true love requires commitment and trust, akin to a covenant, and that God's unwavering belief in humanity is the ultimate source of hope.