Leading Rabbi Advises Yeshiva Scholars on Torah Study, Discipline, and Technology Use
As the month of Elul begins, marking a time of heightened Torah study, Rabbi Yisrael Zicherman, head of several prominent kollels and rabbi of Achuzat Barkefeld in Modi'in Illit, posed practical questions to his mentor, Rabbi Yitzchak Zilberstein, a leading halachic authority and member of the Council of Torah Sages. Rabbi Zicherman, a longtime student of Rabbi Zilberstein at the Beit David Kollel in Holon, sought guidance on how to effectively teach halachic study to young scholars transitioning from traditional yeshiva learning to practical halacha.
Rabbi Zilberstein emphasized that mastering halacha to the point of practical ruling is the highest level of Torah scholarship, citing Talmudic sources. He advised that kollel heads should daily present engaging halachic questions to their students to foster enthusiasm and deep understanding. Regarding discipline, Rabbi Zilberstein rejected expelling scholars for tardiness or talking, advocating instead for understanding underlying issues and encouraging them by highlighting the spiritual potential of Torah study.
On family responsibilities, Rabbi Zilberstein stressed the importance of balancing study with caring for sick children, urging families to seek communal help so the husband can maintain his learning. He praised the vital role of Jewish women in supporting Torah study and rejected claims that Jewish women are oppressed, citing traditional texts that honor the woman of valor.
Addressing study partners (chavrutas), Rabbi Zilberstein encouraged visiting ill colleagues at home to learn together, even if it might slow the overall kollel pace, suggesting phone learning as an alternative if necessary. On technology, he opposed computers and phones in the study hall, except in rare emergencies, emphasizing that Torah was transmitted without such aids and that true learning requires effort.
Rabbi Zilberstein also counseled kollel heads to personally study with weaker students to inspire them and warned against staying up too late studying, calling for proper sleep discipline. He praised kollel leaders for their self-sacrifice, promising divine protection for those who prioritize communal Torah study. Concluding, he reflected on Israel’s miraculous survival and growth since its founding, urging scholars to dedicate themselves fully to Torah as the key to bringing the Messiah and ensuring the nation’s future.
