Chaim led a Torah study session on Leviticus chapter 18, focusing on the concept of “Holding by the Book” and discussing three levels of keeping mitzvahs. He explained that according to Rabbi Nebuchadnezzar’s teaching, there are different levels of observance: doing mitzvahs to get reward, doing them for reward in the next world, and doing them out of love for God. Chaim used the example of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob who served God with great joy while working as shepherds and farmers, demonstrating how one can achieve spiritual reward while living in and functioning within the physical world. The discussion included practical applications of these principles, particularly regarding business transactions with non-Jews during holidays and the complex laws surrounding Shabbat observance, including when it’s permissible to ask non-Jews for assistance.
Levels of Mitzvah Intention
Chaim continued the discussion on Leviticus chapter 18, focusing on the concept of living by the mitzvahs rather than dying by them. He explained three levels of intention when performing mitzvahs: doing them to get reward, doing them for reward in the next world, and doing them out of love regardless of reward. Chaim compared this to the service of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who served God with great joy while working in the world as farmers and shepherds.
Business with Non-Jews in Exile
Chaim discussed the concept of putting stumbling blocks in front of non-Jews, using the example of business transactions before their holidays. He explained that according to Rabbi Osher, it is permissible to do business with non-Jews up to three days before their holidays because Jews are in exile and rely on non-Jewish communities for survival. Chaim also referenced Mark Twain’s observations about the sparsely populated state of the land of Israel in the late 1800s to illustrate the historical reality of Jewish life in exile.
Business on Jewish Holidays
Chaim discussed the concept of doing business on Jewish holidays during exile, explaining that since Jews are in the minority globally, they have no choice but to engage with non-Jewish businesses. He argued that the rabbinic allowance for necessary purchases during holidays reflects the reality of living in exile, where Jews must rely on non-Jewish providers for basic needs. Chaim used examples like clothing needs during the 9 Days period to illustrate how strict restrictions create practical challenges that require advance planning.
Shabbat Emergency Rules Discussion
Chaim discussed the rules around breaking Shabbat, particularly in emergency situations, explaining that saving a life allows for certain actions that would otherwise be forbidden. He provided examples of when it might be permissible to have a non-Jewish person (Shabbat goy) perform tasks, such as fixing a fuse in a synagogue during extreme heat, though he noted the timing of when the problem occurs affects the permissibility. Chaim emphasized that while indirect requests to non-Jews are allowed, directly asking them to perform forbidden tasks is prohibited.
Shabbat Task Permissibility and Rules
Chaim discussed the complexities of using non-Jews to perform tasks on Shabbat, explaining that while it is permissible under certain circumstances, it cannot be used for any minor issue. He shared anecdotes about rabbis using phones on Shabbat for emergencies and the rules surrounding Shabbat elevators, noting that they can be used only by those with medical needs. Chaim emphasized that while Shabbat elevators can be helpful, they should not be used for convenience alone, and he shared a story about left-leaning residents opposing the installation of a Shabbat elevator in their building due to religious associations.
Jewish Law and Workplace Challenges
Chaim discussed the concept of majority rule in Jewish law, using the example of a building vote to illustrate how decisions are made when there are no doubts about the permissibility of an action. He explained that while convenience is not a valid reason to violate religious principles, using an elevator for those with genuine needs is permitted. Chaim also addressed workplace challenges for observant Jews, particularly regarding handshakes and interactions with colleagues, sharing strategies for navigating these situations while maintaining religious standards.
Anonymity and Religious Teachings
Chaim discussed the irony of people expressing strong opinions anonymously, sharing examples of protesters and hecklers who hide their faces while making controversial statements. He emphasized that if individuals are going to make strong claims, they should put their names to them rather than remaining anonymous. The conversation then shifted to a religious question about teaching blessings to young children, where Chaim explained that while it’s preferable for children to say God’s name themselves, it’s permissible for parents to assist by saying it on their behalf if necessary, though the children should eventually learn the proper blessings.
Parental Education and Discipline Obligations
Chaim discussed the religious and moral obligations of parents to educate their children about right and wrong, particularly regarding Jewish laws and customs. He emphasized that once children understand the concepts of yes and no, parents have an obligation to discipline them and prevent them from engaging in forbidden activities like desecrating Shabbat or littering. Chaim shared personal examples from his family, including stories about his grandchildren and daughter’s children, to illustrate the importance of proper discipline and education in teaching children appropriate behavior and responsibilities.
Balancing Response and Prayer Practices
Chaim discussed the importance of balancing promptness with understanding in responding to parents’ requests, emphasizing the need for patience and not being overly demanding. He also addressed questions about prayer practices, specifically regarding the order of prayers during Maariv and whether a conversion candidate could skip certain blessings to focus on Hebrew practice. Chaim advised that while it is technically possible to skip certain blessings, it’s better to say fewer prayers with more meaning rather than many without understanding, and emphasized the importance of being present from the beginning to the end of the service when possible.
Jewish Prayer Obligations Discussion
Chaim discussed the importance of formal prayer obligations for Jews, explaining that men must pray three times daily with a minyan while women pray twice daily. He addressed questions about prayer alternatives, clarifying that while meditation and personal prayers are acceptable, they cannot replace formal required prayers. The discussion also covered whether non-Jews should wear tefillin or fix Torah scrolls, with Chaim explaining that conversion candidates should learn tefillin placement before conversion but non-Jews should avoid these practices. The conversation concluded with a debate about whether to repair damaged Torah scrolls for Reform or Conservative synagogues, with Chaim expressing skepticism about the effectiveness of such efforts due to concerns about how these communities would continue to misuse religious objects.