Rabbi Moshe Hillel Hirsch Calls for Drastic Torah Commitment Ahead of High Holidays

Rabbi Moshe Hillel Hirsch, head of the Torah world and rosh yeshiva, addressed thousands of yeshiva students in Beit Shemesh during the conclusion of the 'Vetalmodu Beyado' event organized by the United Yeshiva Students. He urged Torah scholars to prepare for the month of Elul and Rosh Hashanah by moving beyond mediocrity and embracing a serious, practical commitment to Torah study.

Rabbi Hirsch reflected on the hardships and decrees faced by the Torah community over the past year, emphasizing that these challenges are decreed by God and that the upcoming Days of Judgment require personal introspection and change. He stressed that mere general encouragement is insufficient and that only a drastic change can bring about improvement. Quoting the Sforno on the verse "Behold, I set before you today blessing and curse," he called on individuals to reject a mediocre life and strive for extreme success in their spiritual efforts.

Drawing on teachings from Rabbi Israel Salanter, Rabbi Hirsch explained that serving God requires effort beyond natural habits or inclinations. Many yeshiva students continue their studies out of routine but avoid tasks that require exertion. He emphasized that true service to God involves fulfilling His will even when it conflicts with one’s natural desires, doing so out of obligation.

Rabbi Hirsch also cited his teacher Rabbi Aharon Kotler, noting that fear of accepting the yoke of Torah is mistaken, as it actually brings true wealth and happiness. He likened this to the Yom Kippur fast, where one does not negotiate with oneself despite difficulty. Similarly, accepting the obligation to study Torah wholeheartedly should be non-negotiable.

He set a practical goal for students to commit to a minimum of ten hours of focused Torah study daily, acknowledging that some might feel unworthy or incapable. He countered this with the teachings of the Chafetz Chaim, who explained that the evil inclination tries to discourage people from taking on great spiritual challenges by making them feel inadequate. Rabbi Hirsch concluded with a prayer that this practical acceptance of Torah study will inspire divine mercy at the time of judgment, leading to a good inscription and sealing for the new year.