Jewish history may be lying around in your basement. Don't let it be lost to the world.

he Orthodox Jewish Archives, which was struck by a damaging fire last year, has completed renovation of its physical facilities, and has embarked on a worldwide search Tto rebuild and expand its holdings. The destruction of archival material in the blaze was, fortunately, not as extensive as originally thought. Through advanced restoration techniques, many items written off as hopelessly damaged were able to be saved. But the effort cannot stop with salvage and recovery. It is time for a greater undertaking. Thousands of documents and photos are languishing in tnmks, attics and forgotten drawers in private homes and basements. Now is the time to retrieve this precious material­ before it becomes dust instead of history. Your help-the public's help-is needed in this effort. Do you have any relevant old photos, documents, or records?

THE CATEGORIES OF ITEMS REQUESTED: • Documentation of Orthodox Jewish rescue work dur­ • Doeuments and photos pertaining to Orthodox activ- ing.the Holocaust. ism in the social service and civic action fields. • · Ph6tos depicting life in the shtetl, the Orthodox com· • Photos of Gedolei Yisroel past and present. munities of the cities, the yeshiva world, and ChMSidic • Sets of Orthodox journals and periodicals . .centers of Europe before the Holoeaust. • Documents and photos relating to .the religious Yishuv •- DOcuin'ettts 1 records, letters; journals and newspapers in Eretz Yisroel, its institutions and struggles for that portray Torah life in Europe as it was: and cast Jewish life. light on the issues and problems facing Jews at the time. • Documents and photos pertaining to world-wide Agudath Israel history, all Knessios Gedolos, and the • -Documetltsi -records-, corresPonden~; newsclippings~ development of the American Agudah movement since journals, memorabilia, and photos depicting Orthodox 1922. life in the U.S. from colonial times to the present. (If you ate hesitant to part with cherished items, ·a.rrange~ • Documents and photos pertaining to the development rrumts ca:n. be made 1:° reproduce certai.n kinds of dlJcuments of yeshivas throughout the country. and photos,·Jeavinu ~he original in your posse:;si.on.)

The previous Archives facility, gutted by a fire from within, was modeled according to accepted archival procedures. The new Orthodox Jewish Archives, now rebuilt, has been safeguarded with maximum state-of-the-art protection above and beyond standard archival design. AS A COMMUNITY, WE MUST PRESERVE THIS LEGACY THAT WILL OTHERWISE BE LOST TO FUTURE GENERATIONS. If you have any items in the above categories in your possession, or know where they can be obtained, please write or phone: ORTHODOX JEWISH ARCHIVES Agudath Israel of America 84 William Street, New York, N.Y. 10038, 212-797-9000 4 Combatting Abortion Distortion Chaim Dovid Zwiebel

The Legacy and Legend of Rabbi Meir Chodosh ~ 0 ::11 11 TME JEWISH OBSERVER (ISSN) 0021-6615 Is published monthly except July and August, Without Noise, Rabbi Hillel Goldberg by the Agudath Israel of America, 84 Wiiiiam Street, New York, NY 10038. Second class postage 13 paid In New York, N.Y. and at additional malling A Talmid Remembers, Menahem Goldbaum office. Subscription $18.00 per year; two years, $30.00; three years, $40.00. Outside of the United States (US funds drawn on a US bank only) $10 sur­ 15 charge per year. Single copy $2.50; foreign $3.00. Send address changes to The Jewish Observer, 84 PostScript William St., N.Y., N.Y. 10038. Tel. (212) 797-9000. Biographical Afterthoughts, Brocha Isaacs Printed In the U.S.A. RABBI NISSON WOLPIN, EOITOR 17 EOITORfAL BOARO Eyam DR. ERNST BODENHEIMER The Final Chairman Mordechai Kuber

RABBI JOSEPH ELIAS JOSEPH FRIEDENSON 25 RABBI NOSSON SCHERMAN Spending Shabbos in a Modern·Hotel MANAGEMENT SOAllD Dr. Elliot Udell NAFTOLI HIRSCH ISAAC KIRZNER RABBI SHLOMO LESIN 33 NACHUM STEIN Books in Review RABBI YOSEF C. GOLDING Business Manager JEWISH HISTORY: Am Olam, The Eternal Nation/The lggeres ofRavSherira Gaon/Chassidic Rebbes/The Legacy of Slobodka/ Published by Agudath Israel of America The Chazon !sh/Daughters of Destiny RABBI MOSHE SHERER HOLOCAUST LITERATURE: Thy Brother's Blood/Slingshot of PRESfOENT Hell/Exodus From Hungruy/Facing the Holocaust in Budapest THE JEWISH OBSERVER does not assume responsibility for the Kashrus of any product or service advertised In Its pages. 39 Seconds Looks at the Jewish Scene © Copyright 1989 Women at the Wall

MAY 1989 42 VOLUME XXll/NUMBER 4 Letters to the Editor Agudath Israel Goes It Alone, Again

THE LOPSIDED LINEUP the national media and Issued Jewish Labor Committee avalanches of press releases setting NA'MAT ost readers of The Jewish forth their positions. They have co­ National Council of Jewish Women Observer are no doubt sponsored major public demonstra­ National Federation of Temple aware that the United tions and mobilized their grassroots Sisterhoods M National Jewish Community Relations constituencies to express their States Supreme Court is currently Advisory Council In the process of reconsidertng Roe views. Most Impressively of all. they Hadassah v. Wade. Its 1973 decision guaran­ have communicated directly with Jewish Labor Committee teeing a woman's rtght to abortion the Supreme Court by signing on, Jewish War Veterans of the U.SA durtng approximately the first two in unprecedented numbers. to aml­ Union of Orthodox Jewish trtmesters of pregnancy. Some read­ cus curiae (friend of the court) Congregations of Amertca ers may not be aware. though. of the brtefs urging the Court to adopt United Synagogue of Amertca extent to which Jewish organiza­ their points of view. Women's Amertcan ORT tions have gotten involved In the And what were the points of view Union of Amertcan Hebrew frenzied debate over legalized abor­ advocated by these Jewish groups? Congregations tion. In fact. such involvement has It was nearly unanimous: All but one Women's League for Conservative Judaism been substantial. expressed complete support for Roe In recent weeks and months. since v. Wade. urging that abortion con­ It was nearly unanimous, but not the Supreme Court signaled its in­ tinue to be protected as a fundamen­ quite. For there was one Jewish tention to reconsider Roe. Jewish tal constitutional rtght. The impos­ organization on the other side of the groups have placed full-page ads in ing lineup of pro-Roe Jewish organizations included: •The National Jewish Community Relations Chaim Dovl4 Zwiebel. Esq.. Agudath Israel of Amertcan Jewish Committee Advisory Council is an umbrella group whose America's Director of Government Affairs and members include 13 national Jewish organiza­ General Counsel, was last represented In these Amertcan Jewish Congress tions and 113 local Jewish community agencies pages by his "Using Secular Government to Anti-Defamation League of B'nai Brtth around the country. Seven of the 13 national Promote Religious Interests: What are the B'nai Brtth organtztton members signed on independently Boundaries?" (February 1987). He is the author B'nai Brtth Women to the pro-Roe amicus curtae brief; the other six. of Agudath Israel of America's Supreme Court whose names are indented in the text above brief in the case of Webster v. Reproductive Federation ofReconstructiontst beneath NJCRAC's name, joined tn the brief Health Servf.ces. discussed in this article. Congregations and Havurot under the NJCRAC banner.

4 The Jewish Observer. May 1989 Chaim Dovid Zwiebel

At a time when Jewish unity is experiencing such severe strain, why was it necessary for Agudatb Israel publicly to break ranks with all the other Jewish groups? Why do Jewish organizations consider abortion to be such an important issue? friend of the court ledger, urging a "fundamental" constitutional Eighth Circuit, citing Roe v. Wade that Roe v. Wade be overruled and right. Under applicable principles of and several subsequent Supreme that abortion on demand no longer constitutional jurisprudence, a Court decisions that followed Roe's be deemed a fundamental constitu­ "fundamental" right is protected lead, struck down these provisions tional right. That organization was against governmental abridgment as an unconstitutional Infringe­ Agudath Israel of America. unless the government can show a ment of a woman's fundamental The divergence between Agudath countervailing "compelling state right to abortion. Israel's position and that of the Interest." In accepting Missouri's appeal other JeWish groups did not go The Court in Roe postulated that from the Eighth Circuifs ruling, the unnoticed by the news media Espe­ although states do have an interest Supreme Court requested that the cially intriguing from the media's in protecting human fetal life, that parties address two broad themes: perspective was the surprising Interest is not "compelling" until the whether the Missouri law was con­ existence of what one reporter fetus is "viable" (i.e.. able to survive sistent With Roev. Wade; and, even referred to as "policy disagree­ Independently outside the mother's if not, whether the entire framework ments" over abortion even among womb: this occurs approximately at of Roe v. Wade should be "recon­ the Orthodox, as evidenced by the the end of the second trimester of sidered and discarded." The Court fact that a major Orthodox organ­ pregnancy). ACcordlngly. ruled the appears to be closely divided on ization had joined the pro-Roe Court, states may not Impede the those Issues: legal experts predict forces (as a member of the National exercise of a woman's "fundamen­ that the case is likely to be decided, JeWish Community Relations Advi­ tal" right to abort her pre-viable one way or the other, by a vote of sory Council), at the same time that fetus, irrespective of her motivation 5-4. A decision is expected in late Agudath Israel had come out In seeking to terminate the preg­ June or early July. against them. nancy. Only when the fetus attains This apparent spilt within the viability does the state's Interest in AGUDATH ISRAEL'S JeWish community has engendered protecting fetal life become suffi­ LEGAL POSmoN an unusually high volume of calls ciently "compelling" as to justify and inquiries to Agudath Israel, restriction or outright prohibition gudath Israel . of Am. e.· rica'.s from constituents and outsiders of abortion-and even then, only amicus cuHae brief in the alike. People have wondered: In view where abortion ls not necessary to Webster case urged the of Judaism's negative attitude preserve the life or health of the Court to reassess Its characteriZa­ toward abortion on demand, how mother. tion of abortion on demand as a could the vast majority of establish­ At issue in the case currently "fundamental" right. 'the. brief ment JeWish groups come out in before the Supreme Court. Webster relied principally on a 1986 Sup­ favorofRoev. Wade? Ata time when v. Reproductive Health Seroices, ls reme Court ruling that the right to JeWish unity is experiencing such a Missouri law that imposes a series engage In acts of consensual sod­ severe strain, why was It necessary of restrictions and regulations upon omy was not "fundamental" for for Agudath Israel publicly to break the performance of certain abor­ purposes of constitutional law. The ranks With all the other JeWish tions. Specifically, the Missouri law category of "fundamental" rights, groups? With so many other press­ restricts the use of public employ­ said the Court, includes only those ing matters on the JeWish public ees, public facilities and public freedoms that are "implicit in the policy agenda why doJeWish organ­ funds for abortions; requires that concept of ordered liberty. such that izations consider abortion to be abortions performed after the six­ neither liberty nor justice would such an Important Issue altogether? teenth week of gestation be done in exist If they were sacrificed": or a hospital; and requires doctors to those that are "deeply rooted in this determine fetal viability prior to Nation's history and tradition." The . BACKGROUND OF THE CASE performing certain abortions. In ad­ Court concluded that consensual dition, a preamble to the Missouri sodomy fit neither of those descrip­ he foundati.on plllar upon law contains a legislative "finding" tions. By analogy, Agudath Israel whlchRoev. Waderestedwas that "the life of each human being argued. the right to abortion in most T the Supreme Court's charac­ begins at conception." The United cases should not be deemed "funda­ terization of the right of abortion as States Court of Appeals for the mental."

The Jewish Observer, May 1989 5 In certain exceptional cases, how­ THE VIEWS OF OTHER demonstrate support for abortion ever, Agudath Israel urged that JEWISH ORGANIZATIONS rights. the president of the National abortion should retain Its status as Council for Jewish Women Issued a "fundamental" right Where the s noted above, Agudath Israel a stirring plea for !!mud haTorah: mother's life Is endangered by the of America was the only Jew­ pregnancy, or where the mother's ish organization to urge the "Our passion for choice Is rooted In A Jewish law and ethics. Some of our religious beliefs would mandate an Supreme Court to overrule Roe v. opponents have claimed that choice Is abortion, there is ample legal, moral Wade. Nearly 20 other national not a Jewish reaponse. To those critics and historical authority to protect Jewish groups signed on to an lsay: Read the Talmud, the Jewish book her right to abortion. Preserving the amicus curiae brief urging reafflr­ of law. In Judaism, the mother's rights "fundamental" nature of the abor­ mance of Roe and protection of a always come first.• tion right under those limited woman's "fundamental" right to circumstances would likely ensure abortion. Granting these organiza­ Similarly. in explaining why his that halachically mandated abor­ tions the benefit of the presumption organization placed a full page ad tions would continue to be available. that their positions reflect at least .In The New York Times urging Finally. the Agudath Israel brief their own perceptions of Jewish support for Roev. Wade (see accom­ took Issue with Missouri's legisla­ values and interests-a presump­ panying box). the president of the tive "finding" that human life beg­ tion some observers would con­ American Jewish Congress emphas­ ins at conception. If permitted to test-how do they reach the conclu­ ized the Jewish religious underpin- stand, that finding could lead to the sion that access to abortion on . nings oflegal abortion: fetus being invested with the same demand ls a cause that deserves "The advertisement Is a singular constitutional protections as those Jewish support? statement of a very Important position A recent survey suggests that only 3% of abortions are performed because the mother has some health problem.. Some are performed for reasons that should shock the conscience of any society that considers itself civilized. enjoyed by the mother, which in Although there are few if any In the Jewish community. It Is Impor­ tum might. result in prohibitions clearly articulated definitive res­ tant to note that our support of free against abortion even where the ponses to that question, strains of choice comes .from our deep concern pregnancy would likely cause the three separate pro-Roe justifica­ for the sanctity of life. _To assume that mother's death. To avoid that pos­ tions run through the establish­ only those who oppose abortion are sibility, Agudath Israel argued that ment Jewish groups' papers and 'pro-life' Is a gross lajustice . . . The life of the mother, the life ofthefamlly­ Missouri had no legal authority to statements: one of them religious in the quality of existing life also bas great "find" that human life begins at nature: the other two, strategic. value and this Is something that Jewish conception, since the issue of when­ They deserve our consideration. tradition recognizes. That's why we life begins Is intrinsically religious published this piece.• in nature and thus beyond the 1. "Read the Talmud!" As we shall permissible scope of secular govern­ see, Jewish organizational support Let us indeed go back to the Tal­ mental determination. for Roe v. Wade Is typically couched mud and Jewish tradition. Sanhed­ Jn sum, under the legal analysis In strategic terms-a response to rin 5 7b is a good place to start; there advanced by Agudath Israel, only the question of"What Is best for the the Gemora establishes that for where abortion Is necessary to Jews?" rather than "What does b 'net Noach, destruction of fetal life preserve the life of the mother or Judaism say about this?". But not is a capital offense, derived from the where It is mandated.by the moth­ always. Spokesmen for several pro­ proscription against murder. In­ er's religious beliefs would it be Roe Jewish groups have attempted deed, based on the question of considered a "fundamental" right to portray "reproductive freedom" as whether such prohibition extends beyond the reach of governmental an affirmative religious value. Sup­ even to cases Involving danger to the prohibition. Jn typical cases, where port for the ava1labili ty of abortion mother's life (see Tosafos, Sanhed­ these circumstances are not pres­ on demand, according to these rin 59a), a number of posk!m (hala­ ent, states could prohibit abortions. spokesmen. is a position that eman­ chlc authorities) would prohibit Nonetheless, states would be pre­ ates directly from Jewish law and b'nei Noach from performing abor­ cluded from "finding" that a fetus tradition. tions even for therapeutic purposes. is a full-fledged "person," lest its Thus. in a public address to the Under Slnaitic law, although abor­ constitutional entitlement to life be massive crowd that assembled in tion is not a capital offense. as a deemed co-equal with Its mother's. Washington earlier this year to general rule·lt is nonetheless proh-

6 The Jewish Observer. May 1989 ibited (see Tosqfos, Chulltn 33a)­ panying box) suggests that only 3% 2. Protecting the E!tceplion by either because it Is murder or a form of abortions are performed because Abandoning the Rule. "Dear of murder, as some poskim main­ the mother has some health prob­ Friends," begins the American Jew­ tain; or for some other reason, as lem. Some are performed for reasons ish Congress' "Open Letter to Those others contend. The prohibition, that should shock the conscience of Who Would Ban Abortion" pub­ however. is not absolute. The any society that considers itself lished recently as a full-page ad In Mishna teaches that a fetus is to civilized. As The New York Times The New York Times, "Did you know be destroyed if it threatens maternal reported in a recent front-page stoiy. that abortion can be a religious life (Ohalos 7 :6; see Sanhedtin 72b ). Increasing numbers of women requirement? Not just permitted, Posktm differ over such questions undergo a pre-natal test to deter­ but required? In some religious as whether the pregnancy itself mine the gender of the fetus. and traditions. if the fetus endangers the must have created the threat; how then procure an abortion if the life of the mother. abortion is not substantial the threat must be; results of the test are not to their a matter of choice; it is mandatoty!" whether abortion might be permiss­ liking. Narrow though this exception may ible under extreme circumstances of Such is the tragic legacy of Roe be, implies AJCongress, it is impor­ danger to maternal health; and, if v. Wade-a legacy certain Jewish tant to support blanket access to so, what those extreme circumstan­ groups would have the world believe abortion so that abortion will be ces might be. is consistent with, or even demand­ available when it is religiously The pages of The Jewish Obseroer ed by, Jewish teachings. What these required. are not the proper setting for a groups have done is to convert the This line of reasoning does not detailed discussion of these most narrow halachic exception that necessarily involve any distortion of complex halachic issues. Nor do I requires or perhaps permits abor­ halacha. Rather, it proceeds on the pretend to be qualified to present tions under certain exceptional cir­ strategic assumption that Jews are such a discussion; This much Is cumstances into a general rule en­ best served by a secular policy that clear. though: Jewish law flatly dorsing "reproductive choice" as an leaves the abortion decision in the prohibits abortions in all but excep­ affirmative Jewish value. This is a mother's hands. not government's; tional cases. gross distortion of Torah which for if government is granted the should be a source of extraordimuy any abortions, Roe v. Wade, in contrast. permits authority to prohibit abortion on demand, for any "con­ pain to eveiy Jew with even a it may choose to prohibit all venience, whim, or caprice of the modicum of religious sensitivity. abortions. putative mother," as one Supreme Court justice has observed. Experts estimate that since 1973, when Roe was decided, the number of abor­ tions performed annually in the United States has risen to the as­ tronomical figure of 1.6 million. The overwhelming majority of these abortions are performed for reasons that all or virtually all poskim would agree carry no halachic weight. A recent survey conducted by the Alan Guttmacher Institute (see accom-

•Readers who Wish to pursue the halachtc issues involved in abortion may be interested in contrasting the views of Rav Moshe Feinstein '"~t. Iggros Moshe, Choshen Mtshpat II, 69-71. With those of Rav Eltezer Waldenberg n"'J\ Tzftz Eliezer. IX. 51.3; and XIII. 102. Several articles and essays are available to the English-language reader as well. including a fairly comprehensive piece by Rabbi J, DaVid Bleich. "Abortion in Halakhic Literature," reprinted in the author's Contemporary Halakhic Problems {Ktav 1977) and in Rosner & Bleich's Jewish Bioethics (Hebrew Publishing Co. 1979). Jt goes without saying that. _in vtew of the complexity and stringency of the issue, any lnd1Vidua1 confronted with a specific she'etlah concerning the possi­ bility of terminating a pregnancy should consult With a competent halachic authotity at eveiy stage of the process.

The Jewish Observer.May 1989 7 It Is true that certain extremists in the "pro-life" camp would ban abortion even In cases where the fetus endangers the mother's life, even In cases where abortion ls a religious requirement. I can person­ ally attest to that fact, having recently participated In a White House meeting of "pro-life" leaders and hearing several of them call for a "no exceptions" anti-abortion policy. And so the Jewish commun­ ity must indeed be on guard against those who would prohibit any and all abortions even In cases where halacha might require them. But It ls misleading to suggest that such guard duty encompasses the duty to support abortion on demand. As Agudath Israel demon­ strated In Its brief to the Supreme Court, there Is ample legal/ consti­ tutional basis to distinguish between abortions that deserve protection as a "fundamental" right and those that do not. There ls also ample basis In history and social policy to draw such distinctions. In the pre-Roe era. for example, the state statutes prohib!t!ng abortions were not absolute; at a minimum, they permitted abortions necessary to preserve maternal life. If the Supreme Court now reverses Roe, sonal conduct-even where the that such causes do not represent the likelihood ls that such excep­ conduct at Issue is totally repugnant pos!t!ve values In Jewish law or tions will continue to be preserved to Jewish law and values. The tradition, they contend that Jews in even In states that choose to ban greater the government's authority a non-Jewish society are best off abortions generally. In fact. at the , to control private decisions, the when the society adopts a philo­ meeting of pro-life act!vlsts I des­ reasoning goes, the greater the sophy of '1!ve and let live," wherebY cribed above, White House Chief of likelihood that It will pass laws that each ind!vldual has maximum free­ Staff John Sununu made It clear Inhibit the abll!ty of Jews to live dom to do as he or she pleases that the Bush Administration their lives In accordance with their without governmental Interference. would oppose any anti-abortion religious dictates. Thus, even Agudath Israel of America has !nlt!at!ve that did not contain though abortion on demand does never adopted that viewpoint. certain basic exceptions. not represent a legitimate Jewish Although It ls not the organization's In short, the legal and policy approach, It becomes important for objective to Impose Torah views choices In this area are not confined Jews to support it as an expression upon society at large through sec­ to all or nothing. The total permis­ of total freedom of choice and ular governmental processes, there siveness of Roe v. Wade ls an protection of lnd!vldual liberty. are certain fundamental values-all unnecessary price to pay to protect This line of reasoning dominates of which concededly emanate from religious liberty. establishment Jewish thinking on the Torah-that form the basis of 3. The Jewish Stake in "Freedom a whole series of other Issues as well. any civilized society. Respect for life of Choice." An even further-reach­ Jewish groups and spokesmen have Is one of them. History has taught ing strategic argument advanced or long been identified with the that a society In which the domi­ Implied bY some of the pro-Roe Jew­ defense of such causes as porno­ nant theme Is "anything goes" Is a ish groups ls that It ls In the interest graphy, "gay rights," and unres­ society that bears within It the seeds of American Jews to support public tricted "personal autonomy" In of decay and self-destruction. Jew­ policy positions that restrict govern­ medical decision making. Although ish groups should not be In the ment's authority to regulate per- most of these advocates will concede forefront of planting those seeds. If

8 The Jewish Observer, May 1989 anything, we have an obligation to of Jewish doctors, who he believes tlon to the Supreme Court. Never be an ohr la 'goytm. a light unto the perform a large number of abor­ before has an Agudath Israel spo­ nations, illuminating the world with tions." The Boston Jewish Advocate kesman emphasized the issue in the eternal verities of Torah values. reports that certain leaders In the private meetings with high level But even putting that obligation "pro-life" camp have characterized government officials, as Agudath aside, and accepting for argument's abortion In such terms as "a billion Israel's president Rabbi Moshe sake the premise that the overriding dollar Jewish holocaust"; and that Sherer did when he met several objective of Jewish public pollcyad­ Operation Rescue's literature likens months ago with Vice President Dan vocacy should be to protect against abortion to the child-sacrifice It Quayle. all forms of majorltarlan control, It claims Jews historically practiced. In truth, the issue per se Is not Is highly questionable whether the This type .of talk Is frighteningly among Agudath Israel's highest strategy adopted by the American familiar. HaShem ytshmerenu. priorities. There .is a recognition Jewish establishment Is the best Let us acknowledge that many in within the organization that abor­ means of achlevtng that objective. the "pro-life" community-or, for tion arouses deep feelings among

Is it really good strategy to be in the forefront of non'-Torah ca'U.Ses that make us an easy target for anti-semites• venom?

In fact, Jews who invest so much that matter. In the broader "tradi­ issue; that existing "pro-choice" energy in defending abortion, por­ tional family values" community­ policy. although totally Inconsistent nography, homosexuality and the are not our friends. Nor will they ever with Torah values, at least petmits like, on the ostensible strategic be. regardless of the position we take Jews to act in accordance With the ground that the Jewish community on Issues like abortion. But there halacha; and that the likelihood that Is best off If society is legally obli­ is still a difference between latent Agudath Israel could have substan­ gated to tolerate almost any form of anti-semltism .and blatant anti­ tial impact on national policy on an private conduct. maybe accomplish­ semitism, and there Is good cause issue like this is at best slim. Under ing precisely the opposite of what for concern that the Jewish estab­ those circumstances, Agudath they Intend. Backlash against exces­ lishment's highly publicized posi­ Israel satisfied itself over the years sive social permissiveness is a tions on "family value" issues may with issuing position papers on psychological and historical fact. transform the former into the latter. abortion, and concentrating Its When Jews are the ones most com­ Whether from the perspective of advocacy resources on other Issues monly identified as the purveyors contributing to a healthier society, of more immediate import. and defenders ofsuch excesses, they or of creating a climate that is most It was Agudath Israel's Moetzes become .most vulnerable to such hospitable to Jewish interests, Gedolei HaTorah (Council of Torah backlash. That is not to suggest that support for anti-Torah values can Sages) that decided this year that Jewish resistance to governmental never be the basis for a strategically the organization should play a more regulation Is the cause of anti­ sound Jewish public policy. active role in the abortion debate. semitism; the antl-semltes of the Several factors Influenced the deci­ extreme right need no excuses to WHY GET INVOLVED sion. Including the fact that the hate us. Nonetheless, ls It really good ALTOGETHER? Supreme Court appeared ready to strategy to be In the forefront of non­ reconsider the entire framework of Torah causes that make us an easy ince the mld-1970's, Agudath Roe v. Wade, and the concern over target for the haters' venom? Israel of America's official the recent proliferation of new Signs of an uglyanthJewish back­ S response to Roe v. Wade has issues in the field of"bioethlcs" that lash over the abortion issue have been to articulate Its concern for the tend to undermine society's general already started to emerge from the protection of fetal life within a attitude of reverence for human life; dark shadows. Reporting on the framework of respecl for the moth­ Even more signillcantly, though. the rapid growth of"Operatlon Rescue," er's religious freedom-the same members of the Moetzes Gedole! a militant anti-abortion movement position embodied in Its recent HaTorah·felt that authentic Torah that in Its short 18 months of amtcus curiae brief. Yet until this values were being publicly dis­ existence has already attracted year. Agudath .Israel has adopted a torted-even falsified-by the many some 35,000 followers in 200 cities, low-key posture on the abortion Jewish organizations that were Newsweel

The Jewish Obseroer, May 1989 9 Support for anti-Torah values can never be the basis for a strategically sound Jewish public policy.

Instructed Agudath Israel to take up pro-"gay rights" New York City unique among national Jewish the cudgel for k'vod Shomayim Executive Order 50. The abortion organizations, the policies it adopts issue Is simply the latest example will often be unique among national BREAKING RANKS of this recurrent theme In Agudath Jewish organizations. Great though Israel's history. the value of Jewish unity may be, his is not the first time Agu­ Upon reflection, It is hardly sur­ certain other values are greater dath Israel of America has prising that Agudath Israel of Amer­ still.• T decided to take public policy ica has "broken Jewish unity" so [Postscript: On May 8, as this article stands that break with the Jewish frequently, as some of Its critics have was about to go to press. and approx­ organizational establishment. In­ put it. Unlike other Jewish organ­ imatelyfive weeks after the media had deed, the history of Agudath Israel izations, policy-making authority in reported the alleged split within the is replete with such instances of Agudath Israel rests not with exec­ Orthodox community over the issue qf "going It alone." Examples: Agudath utive staff, not with lay or profes­ abortion policy, the Union of Orthodox Israel's decision to send food pack­ sional boards, not with major finan­ Jewish Congregations issued a "clar­ ages to Eastern European Jews cial contributors, but with gedolei ification" qf its views on Roe v. Wade. during the Holocaust years over the Yisroel. It is perhaps the fundamen­ The May 8 clarification indicates that the Union continues to maintain its objections of the secular Jewish tal tenet of Agudath Israel that only longslnnding dissent from the "pro­ community; its engagement In "ille­ men of such stature-steeped In choice" position of the National Jewish gal" efforts to rescue Jews from the Jewish learning, sensitive to Jewish Community Relations Advisory Coun­ fires of the Holocaust and then to concerns, suffused with Jewish cil, of which it ts a member; and that rush kosher food packages to ema­ values-are capable of formulating the NJCRAC should have included a ciated survivors in the liberated D.P. an authentic Jewish position on statement embodying such dissent in camps; Its trail-blazing efforts on Issues of the day, and of determining its amicus curiae brief to the Supreme behalf of governmental support for when k'vod Shomayim demands Court. The Union states that it has yeshiva education, which at the that such position be articulated asked NJCRAC to file an amended brief which accumtely setsforth the Union's outset were opposed even by some and acted upon even in the face of position. Orthodox organizations; its unique establishment Jewish opposition. This welcome development­ approach toward the issue of Soviet The bottom line, as recent weeks extremely belated though it may be­ Jewry; its willingness to "fight City have made so abundantly clear, is should at least put to rest the myth that Hall" and risk millions of dollars by this: So long as Agudath Israel's there is disunity among organized refusing to knuckle under to the policy-making mechanism remains Orthodoxy over the abortion tssue./ RIKA BREUERTEACHERS SEMINARY ••••••••••• 9SBennettAvenue, NewYorl<,NY10033 ••••••••illl•illl• Please note that LXfE REGISTRATIONS for the coming sch6ol year (1989190) for 6.ur bAY DfVISlON will be accepted unti!June 15, subjectto space availability. Special arrartgements for applicantswho have completed a year- of setnina_ry in Er,etz _Yisroet For information and registration call 212.,.568~6200. Answers to some .questions which R.ll<.A BREUER TEACHERS' SEMINARY is. asked by High Schoolseniots: What ls the educational goal oitlte Selllinafy? What about the hours of the progranl? Lfving arrar1gemerits? TO:pi:o_dUce Beth Ja~__ Ob personalitie~ who-: by htidO's, knowledge, Transportation? _and hashktefos:....._are_prepared and inspired to assume theh' respon­ Gasses meet every mm:ning'. Transportation is provid~d ftomany sibilities in I At the Sa:me time t>oyouh.,..,.to .be an outstandings!Udentto benefit from the our dormitory provides board, lodgiflg .•n.d congenial atmosphere Selllinary ptogtam? for students who ,cannot or-do,not-w'ant to _commute. lly offering parallel classes on different lovels, we serve both Whatis lhe cost Of the program? advanced students artd those not ready for theit level of study. Registration fee i.s $100.00, ttlition per year is $1,@l.OO and dor­ Is the program designed only for future. leathers? mitory lees (where applicable) are $3,000.00. Qualified. stuilents :we emphasize the:importan(:e-_o£ teaching and provide fun receive Pell Grants, G.E.O.G., and work,study jobs. theoretical and practical preparation for it-but 6ur program reflects What degree or diploma- do_ I rece_iVe upon_ graditatiOn? o_ur _cortviction_ that sE?tninary attendance--is_ al_~ vital Jor women Students('()mpl~ the two year pr<>gr~m f!!C•ive the prestigi~us .who. do nol.plan to leach. seminary diploma.;-a_s-well as __a Total} Umesotali'TeaChefs Llcet1se,

10 The Jewish Observer, May 1989 Rabbi Hillel Goldberg

WITHOUT NOISE: The Legacy and Legend of Rabbi Meir Chodosh Tl'.)1'.l? j/)1~ ,,,

HOLDING THE HAND OF THE"ALTER"

ise. t seems indispensable to the Nmanufacture of a legacy. People who leave a legacy are assumed to have made a splash. Created waves. Brought attention to themselves. Noise. Its different locales: politics, pun­ ditry, business, academia Its differ­ ent activities: people inventing. Wielding power, maldng new music or new cures. wheeling and dealing. hiring and firing. making big friends, big enemies. The late Rabbi Meir Chodosh made no noise. None. Quiet he was. Reserved. Scholarly. Never in a hurry. Not physically imposing. Always tied to self-im­ posed schedules of Torah study. So disinterested in the limelight that it makes too much of the point even to note this disinterest. A self-con­ tained man. A gentle man.

Rabbi Hillel Goldberg, senior editor of the Intermountain Jewish News, is author of The Fire Within: The Living Heritage

The Jewish Obseroer, May 1989 11 But what a legacy! What a legend! Such was the mind and being of centuiy than any other person. Meir Chodosh, born in 1898, al­ Rabbi Meir Chodesh. the senior The Alter knew quality. ready at eleven a budding Talmudic mashgiach in Eretz YtsroeL who He knew how to spot it. how to scholar, already at twelve a full-time was niftaron 29 Teves in Jerusalem, develop it. student in the famed Slobodka atthe age of 91. He saw it in young Meir Chodosh, Yeshiva. As a young student, already Steady he was, scholarly and self­ and developed it in him over seven­ proficient at the "pin test.'' contained, and silent. too. But he teen years of continuous tutelage, Who but the People of the Book was anything but reclusive. As a first in Europe, then in Palestine, In could devise a "pin test"? child, able to cope with the young the first yeshiva to ascend in toto Here's how it works: Open a men of genius in Slobodka. able to to the Land of Israel in some 1900 years. in 1924. In fact. Reb Meir Chodosh was holding the Alters hand when he passed away, In 1927; The Alter knew how to spot quality. He saw it in and with his own hand, Reb Meir young Meir Chodosh, and developed it in him transcribed (together with Rabbi Dov Katz, author of Tnuas Hamas­ over seventeen years Qf continuous tutelage. sar) the Alters shmuessen (dis­ courses), published as Ohr Hat­ zafun-The Hidden Light­ Gemora. pick a word on a page, muster the aplomb temporarily to decades later. pierce it with a pin from first page drop out of yeshiva to find a place to last. The student passing the test for his orphaned siblings, Meir FROM CHEVRON will recite precisely which word the Chodesh attached himself to "the TO JERUSALEM pin pierces on both sides of each Alter of Slobodka." page, first to last. The legendary Rabbi Nosson Zvi "Slobodka." the yeshiva which What is this-sterile memoriza­ Finkel. Theeducatornon-pareil. The went on altya. became the tion with a typographic twist? walking encyclopedia of Midrash "Chevron Yeshiva" upon Quite the contrary. and Aggada. The man who wrote arriving in the city of the burial Only a person not setting out to nothing and said, "My life is my place of the Patriarchs and Matri­ memorize anything, but rather book." archs. And "Chevron" it remained steeping himself in study of Talmud, The Alter. even upon relocation to Jerusalem, removing all distraction from his An orphan himself. a mysteiy. No after the Arab pogrom against it in consciousness, all desire for noise, one knows who originally formed 1929. Rabbi Meir Chodosh survived will absorb the Talmud's words so him. Yet, after passing under the that pogrom by playing dead under completely that they place them­ tutelage of the giants of mussar. he the dead bodies of his friends, by selves spatially in his mind as was responsible for educating more lying utterly still. naturally as breathing. senior talmidei chachamim in this No noise. His clothes were so soaked with blood that they were considered to be parts of the deceased and had to be burled with them. AFTER"rHE SHIVA, The Alter gone, the yeshiva all but ···WHD fAYSTME .•ILLS? wiped out. It was time to trick the temptation Ji.few weeks ago, a family of silt' losttheir husband and·• to tum to despair, and Rabbi Meir Chodosh did. father. No warning. Suddenly,hedied .. Now his widow He went up to Jerusalem. thereaf­ mu~ S(>mehow carry on, feecllng,clothlng and educating ter to be associated with the Chev­ ron Yeshiva for some 50 years, to her children. To whom ea11 she turn tor help if notK'lat be, yes, a friend of scholarship and Yillroel? It is.up to aUof us to help this family o~rcome · solitude, a master of self-contain­ their tremendous burden. men t and silence; yes, also, a teacher and mentor of thousands-stu­ Please send your tax deductible contributions to: dents who became Israeli rabbinical judges and chief rabbis and yeshiva CONGREGATION KEREN ORAH deans of the first rank; last but hard­ 6~9 East7t11Stf!!et, Brooklyn, NY 11218 ly least of his own sons and daughter and son-in-law. Rabbi .Meir Cho­ dosh had served as Mashgiach in

12 The Jewish Observer, May 1989 The Jewish Obseroer, May 1989 13 three outstanding yeshivas in Israel noble character, of ethical perfec­ It was this level of ethical sensi­ founded by his own children: tion. As such, he was able to teach tivity to which the thousands of Yeshiva Ohr Elchanan, headed by just by being; he was able to inspire boys in the Chevron Yeshiva were Rabbi Moshe Chodosh: Yeshiva just by showing his love for Torah: exposed across fifty years. Ateret Yisroel, headed by Rabbi young people are known to have And they were exposed. Baruch Ezrachi; Bet Midrash entered yeshiva simply from watch­ For the Chodosh home was always LaTorah, headed by Rabbi Naftali ing him study, his ordered mind open. Literally. Menachem Chodosh. (Rabbi Aaron enlarged by Torah, his whole being Students were free to enter any Dovid Chodosh is spiritual super­ radiating tranquility, oblivious to all time they needed. Tea and cookies visor in the renowned Mirrer distraction. all noise, around him were always available. On Shabbos, Yeshiva. and Shulamit Ezrachi has Of course, he did open his mouth, students tasted from the Chodosh been an elementaiy teacher ofTorah and when he did. he revealed how family's cholent cooking on the for decades.) much his silences taught.At the end stove. As counselors, Reb Meir and of his life, for example, he revealed Tzivta Chodosh were outreaching, GREATNESS JN TRAINING why he was silent on why he asked accessible. Rabbi Chodosh did not his family to leave the hospital room say much, but he thought much. He adlus Ha'adam. when a certain doctor took blood thought about his students, chewed "The greatness of man." tests. The doctor, said Reb Meir, was their concerns over and over in his G This essential theme of the not very proficient; he couldn't mind-such that when he did teaching of the Alter was the essen­ locate veins on the first try. He poked speak, his words were distilled tial theme of the teaching of his and poked. Needless to say, the weak wisdom, penetrating, effective, disciple, Rabbi Meir Chodosh. rabbi found this painful, but his helpful. To teach others is one thing; to first consideration was not his own Rabbi Meir Chodosh never left the teach oneself quite something else. ordeal It was that his family not be Land of Israel once, from his arrival Rabbi MeirChodosh taught himself, present-that the physician not be In 1924 until his death in 1989. He and became a man of greatness, of embarrassed. loved the land: He pioneered in Chevron, he pioneered in Jerusalem, he rejected prestigious posts in Europe, he accepted the poverty and REACHING NEW HEIGHTS strains of 65 continuous years in the Land of Israel. He built this Land. On .the day Rabbi Meir Chodosh pace-setting program, beautiful 100-acre compu• and carefully chosen "•ff have A was niftar, the physician came to his been combined to bring your son a truly unique experience in frum camping. We have developed an action·packed program that combines stimulating learning home and asked, 'Where does it groups and a masmidim curriculum, with sports activities and individualized workshops in ten· hurt?" nis, ALS, crafts, and much more. Added. dimensions to our camp include "It doesn't hurt." replied Rabbi a two-day trip to the majestic White Mountains of New Hampshire, a Chodosh. concert performed by our campers, and many other special events. "What isn't right?" the physician Our facilities will enhance your son's camping experience. tried again. The camp is situated on 100 acres of panoramic woodland in Living­ "It's all right," replied Rabbi ston Manor,N.Y. The bunks are large an dairy, and the Bais Medrash Chodosh and dining facilities are beautiful. There is a scenic lake for rowing "What isn't comfortable?" the and canoeing, large- and junior-size swimming pools, a huge oak-floor conscientious physician tried still l auditorium, indoor and outdoor basketball courts, two softball fields, again. tennis courts, paddleballand volleyball courts, and fields for football and soccer. 'Tm comfortable." Our goal is to ensure your son has a great time in an environment of Torah and middos, and we believe that the experience and sensitivity of our staff, Comfortable, quiet. Rabbi Meir combined with our facilities and the agenda we have developed, guarantee that Chodosh returned his soul to his your son will have a summer he will always remember. Creator. Join the many boys who have already enrolled. For a brochure, call Shlomo Pfeiffer Without noise. at (718) 327-2508 °' (718) 327-2515. But what a legacy: tens of thou­ Director: Shlomo Pfeiffer Former Progmm Director of Cwnp Sdei Chemed International sands of people felt the need to ac­ Manhig Ruchani: Rabbi Shimon Eider Well-known author of many Sifrei Holacha company this noble, peaceful man Head Cow111dor: Rabbi Tzvi Zev Schwartz Former AuiJtQflt Head Counulor of Camp Agudoh, Toronto Masmidim Director: Rabbi Avrohorn Karp Rebbe, Yeshioo ofScron1on to his final resting place on the Senior Learning Rebbe: Rabbi Dovid Katienstein MeMhel of Shaaroi Torah in MonJty Mount of Olives, In the Land of Senior Learning Rebbe: Rabbi Moshe Lieber Mashgiach, Mesifia R.JJ. of Edison Senior Le.ming Rebbe: Rabbi Ahron Kaufman Rebbe. Yeshioo ofFar Rockaway Israel. A legacy of people: the quiet man communicated, deeply. A legend of time: a last living link CAMPROMIMU to the legendary Alter of Slobodka, the camp that cares gone.•

14 The Jewish Observer, May 1989 elude ourselves from all aspirations for spiritual growth. Our gedolim are meant to be our guiding light! They are our direct Mesorah from Sinai-as your biog­ raphies constantly point out-for us to cling to, to emulate, to help us 'dream and achieve! For instance, throughout the years, whenever we Visited Reb Yaakov Kamenetzky ~"~l. ) always left with a feeling of exhilaration. Perhaps my eyes even shone a bit from the few minutes of exposure Biographical After-Thoughts to that great luminary. I was .a dreamer! I could savor a few Brocha Isaacs moments of something so sweet and delicious that filled me with spirit­ he biographical articles that Oral Torah is not within our grasp, ual excitement! I felt that I could are featured in The Jewish we can nevertheless aspire to emu­ almost peek through a crack into T Observer, month after month, late their compassion, their abso­ Hakadosh Baruch Hu's inner­ never fail to inspire me. And yet ... lute honesty, their total concentra­ sanctum-or imagine I could get one of the sad realities of our tion during tefilla; their self­ just a tiny bit closer.... generation is our tendency to eflacing friendship and warmth­ Please-let us not make the mis­ acquire a detached admiration for and so on ... all character traits take of locking our gedolim away any form of greatness-and cer­ of a true eved Hashem (Servant of from us as relics of an era long gone. tainly for our great Roshei Yeshiva; G-d). When we Visit them in quest of their we consider them too lofty to emu­ How sad that some of us are so adVice and solutions to our prob­ late, too perfect to copy. We tend to dulled out-so mired in the "pursuit lems, let us utilize eveiy moment of forget that the Torah exhorts us of (material) happiness" that we that precious opportunity to (Devarim 11 :22) "To go in His ways," don't even know what it tastes like observe ... how they talk, how they to which Rash! says: "As He is to dream of "reaching for the stars." walk, how they show their concern, merciful, so .should you be merciful. We use the word "tzaddik" in an how they utilize eveiyspare moment He does kind deeds, and you too almost derogatory manner. We to study Torah, how they speak on should do kind deeds." (See Sefer admire from afar. We say, "But he the phone, etc., etc., and let us learn. Hachtnuch-Mitzva .611.l If we are is a tzaddik! I am not on that We can dream of the stars and even told to emulate the midos .of madretga (level)!"-and thus ex- dare to reach for them. • Hashem Yisborach, then it should not be beyond our aspirations to try to be like our Gedolim-who after all, no matter how great they may be, are merely flesh and blood, especially when in comparison to the Almighty! The pasuk continues: "And to cleave to Him," and Rash! continues: "Is it possible to say this? Is He not a consuming fire? But (It means] cleave to our wise men. and it Will be considered as If you are cleaVing to Him." When we are told (in regard to talmidei chachamim): "You should sit in the dust of their feet," this includes (according to the Me'irt on Avos) to emulate the manner in which they conduct their every-day lives among their fellow men. If the mastery of the entire Written and Mra. Isaacs lives in Brooklyn. New York. Thts is her first appearance in these pages.

The Jewish Observer, May 1989 15 Home Attendants

needed for housekeeping and personal care for the disabled and homebound good pay and benefits Boro Park, Bensonhurst and flatbush Area full-time live in positions only Project OHR Inc. (Office for Homecare Referral) 1.308-40th Street, Brooklyn, NY 112.18 (718) 85.3-2700 Mordechai Kuber

THE FINAL EXAM

To avoid under-achieve­ ment, we must establish A CHALLENGE TO "BITACHON" an ambitious goal. We morning and evening.I However, the Ran notes in Nedarim2 that there must have bitachon that is an additional mitzva of 'V'shi­ he blessing of Ahava Rabba our meager efforts will nantom," that all the concepts of the contains a fascinating re­ Torah should be crystal clear in our T mark: "Because of our fore­ bear the fruits of success, minds. The Ran asserts that the fathers who trusted in You, ... You and we must have a plan. twice daily recitation of Krias taught them the statutes oflife." In Shema Will not suffice to meet this this daily declaration we associate goal. Therefore. he concludes, one is the Avos having merited the Torah the less demanding goal of kvius obligated to spend the entire day with their bitachon, their trust in ittim, studying for a set amount of studying to this end. As reflected in G-d. So we pray to become imbued time daily, regardless of the quantity the Shulchan Aruch. one is obli­ with sufficient bitachon to surpass learned or the amount retained. gated to spend every available min­ the challenges that will certainly To avoid under-achievement, we ute studying Torah.3 come our way in our quest to master must firmly establish an ambitious Since the requirement to spend the Torah. goal. We must exert ourselves to more than a minimal amount of One of the most difficult battles achieve our objective, and we must time in Torah study is derived from that must be successfully waged to have the bitachon of the Avos to the mitzva of 'V'shinantom," 'it fol­ achieve substantial gains in Torah trust that our meager efforts Will lows that the primary, if not exclu­ is to avoid becoming overwhelmed bear the improbable fruits of suc­ sive. objective of our learning is to by its massiveness. Many have cess. We must have a goal. and we develop a large, clear, unerasable succumbed to their frustration over must have a plan. data bank of Torah knowledge. It Is their poor recall of their learning. not the purpose of this article to The once lofty goals to master Shas weigh the merits of different ap­ (the entire Talmud) and/or Poskim A GOAL SO VAST proaches that stress clarity over vol­ (codes) were quickly downward­ ume, or vice versa. They are both adjusted. Often the entire concept he Rama, in his glosses on integral parts of the mitzva, and a of mastering even a small portion Shulchan Aruch. rules that If good balance must be struck be­ of Torah is abandoned in favor of T someone has absolutely no tween the two. (The Shulchan time to study Torah, he fulfills the Aruch HaRav4 contains a lengthy Rabbi Kubcr. a member of the Kollel in Ner Israel Baltimore, is director of the Foundation for Torah minimum requirement for learning discussion on this subject, and It Knowledge. by reciting Krias Shema In the would be beneficial for those who

The Jewish Obseroer. May 1989 17 have never seen It before to study tion to HaShemand his remarkable it carefully.I It certainly can be said, self-control. however. that If one's Torah pro­ If one's Torah program­ Rabbi Chanina taught, however, gramming does not include a sys­ ming does not include a that one who performs mitzvos by tem for retention of his learning, obligation is greater than one who then he has not only strayed from system for retention of performs mitzvos by cholce.9 Tosa­ the course, but has missed the point his learning, then he has fos explains that obligations create entirely.5 worry and anxiety over their fulfll­ The Torah-learner, as envisioned not only strayed from the lment.10 The cumulative concern by halacha, Is the Torah-knower. course, but has missed and heartache of the obligated is One who has completed a successful more significant than the love and career of diligent study will anive the point entirely. strength of character of the volun­ in the Next World well-endowed with tary m!tzva-observer. no matter how Torah sCholarship. He will be pre­ profound they maybe. pared for his private recital of the to Rabbi Yehuda, a blind man is The explanation of Tosafos can Torah that he has mastered,6 and exempt from many mitzvos. Rav also shed light on the Intrinsic he will merit the contentment which Yoseif promised to prepare a feast distinction between the obligated the Malachei Hashareis declare for the sages if someone could verify and the exempt. A man who worries belongs only to those who fully recall that the halacha is like Rabbi is a man who shoulders responsl­ their learnlng.7 Yehuda. thereby indicating that his bill ty. He doesn't have another strict adherence to the Torah was option; he must fulfill his obligation. THE FRUITS OF OBLIGATION a purely voluntary effort 8 He felt this Therefore. no matterwhat the obsta­ to be a true sign of greatness. His cles. he will overcome them. It may he Gemora tells us that Rav success in consistently subjugating be difficult; it may be excruciatingly Yoseif, the blind Rosh Yeshiva his yeitzer hora to perform mitzvos painful; but his objective will be T of Mechuza, was meticulous in which he was not obligated was realized. The mitzviI-observer by in his mitzva observance. According testimony to his unflagging devo- choice, however, will not be as successful. When the going gets rough, he will have little compunc­ tion about exempting himself from the onerous task that confronts he sequel him. Rabbi Chanina's lesson can prove young readers Invaluable in our own personal growth. If we are to accomplish. we have been waiting can not rely on our sincerity and good intentions alone. We must for is finally here! transform our Ideas and Inspiration into immutable and unbreakable With Goodbye, My friends, Miriam obligations. Elias completes the heartwarming trilogy that began with Try for A THE ROLE OF Dream, followed by And Then There SELF-MOTIVATION Were four. The final volume traces the friend­ he most basic obligation we ship of Judy, Tova, Sephy, and Orlee can Impose on ourselves in in their last year at school together: T Torah learning has already class elections, annual trip, and finally­ been mandated by the halacha. graduation. Every man is required to designate As in her previous books, Mrs. Elias draws upon her many years of two daily time periods for study, one experience in chinuch. With humor, insight, and sensitivity she deals in the morning and another in the with the themes of family, feelings, and friends-the changes and evening.11 These allotted times conflicts that concern young teens everywhere. should not be utilized for anything else. even If a tremendous opportun­ ALL THREE TITLES ARECURRENTLY AVAILABLE 12 IN HARDCOVER AT $1o.95 EA. AND IN PAPERBACK AT $8.95 EA. ity for profit presents itself. If one of these periods is missed, due to A AF"'EilaLbl'o'''ttll JewEi,lh Mboohtop"'v"dBirec!.Jrlom , HERS V L 5 Visa & MasterCard accepted an unforeseeable circumstance, the Iii 200 Airport Executive Park, Spring Valley, N.Y. 10977 Send for your free copy of missed time should be made up, In t"..l Tel. (914) 356-2282/Toll free: 800-237-7149 our new Jubilee catalog. the manner that one repays a debt.13

18 The Jewish Obseroer, May 1989 This commitment alone, which is Another advantage to this tive measures. already required by halacha, will approach is that adherence to one's The phenomenal success of the take us a long way towards a more personal program is more easily international Daf Hayoml program, responsible attitude in our Torah monitored. Shortcomings in time­ conceived and initiated by Rabbi study. utilization usually do not leave a tell­ Meir Shapiro, '"~1. is testimony to However, the halachic parameters tale trail In their wake. The events the Viability of this approach. Thou­ of kvius ittim laTorah are so loosely of yesterday and its missed oppor­ sands of people find their motiva­ defined that its value as a personal tunities are quickly relegated to the tion in maintaining the schedule. motivator is extremely limited. How dusty archives of the mind. By con­ Hours upon hours of otherwise idle much guaranteed time must be al­ trast, a blatt behind is a blatt be­ time, when riding a train or waiting lotted? Perhaps five or ten minutes hind, and two is even worse. The at a wedding, have been trans­ is enough. For a man who has no tangible reminder of under-per­ formed into golden opportunities to available time, the Mtshna Berurah formance is inescapable, and one complete the day's Daf While in rules that even the recitation of one who takes his obligation seriously theory kvius limudtm baTorah verse will suffice. 14 It doesn't take a will quickly take the proper correc- enables mastery of time manage- seasoned accountant to find the loophole, and the yeitzer hora is more experienced than any of us. What about the obligation to devote . all our spare time to learning? How does one define "spare" time? Is time spent relaxing, reading the paper, chatting with a friend or play­ MASORES_., BAIS YAAKOV. ing ball "spare" time or occupied :li7ll' n•:i n11on · time? It is clear that without greater structure and definition, we will be Please join us for our Inaugural Dinner deluged by a daily barrage of choices and indecision, and in many instan­ ces we will incorrectly opt for the Honoring, the Grandparents . path ofleast resistance. Kvius ittim of our students laTorah alone will proVide very little ammunition in our battle against . personal lethargy. Monday evening, 24 lyar, 5749 May 29th STRUCTURE WITH A . DIFFERENCE LeChateau 431 Avenue P, Brooklyn, N.Y. erhaps a more practical Robbi Yitzchok Mitnick approach. to self-motivation Dinner Chairman P in learning is kvtus limudim baTorah, the designation of set Rabbi Baruch Rabinowitz - Shlomo Davis amounts of Torah to be studied Dinner Co-Chairmen daily. A person could select a quan­ Michael Gross - Yisroel Weiss tity of Torah that would require a Journal Chairmen . significant period of time to study. Robbi Yosef M. Gelman Mrs. Miriam Tikotzy In this manner, the challenge of time Menohel Pre-School Director management would become less Fot Information call (718) 284-6262 demanding. When behind in his daily learning schedule, the "neces­ sity" of any proposed alternative activity will be equalled by the Inaugural "necessity" of keeping up with his 24 IYAR. 5749 · ~~~·THELINKOFGf.Nf..~~ MAY 29, 1989 . study. In many instances, Torah will _____, Dinner present the superior choice, because engaging in the other option will postpone his bedtime until after he has finished his Torah quota for the . 955 Coney Island Avenue, Brooklyn, N,Y, 11230 day, and sleep is certainly high on the list of "necessities."

The Jewish Obseroer, May 1989 19 ment, in practice It falls short of the usually not congenital and must be mark. Many times the kvius limu­ nurtured. In order to insure pro­ dim is confined to a kvius ittim: a In a quantity-structured gress in Torah knowledge, as set amount within a set time. In program, the tangible defined by the mitzva 'Vshinan­ such a setting, the primary advan­ tom," we must devise a scheme that tages of quantity-allocation are lost. reminder of under-per­ will promote significant qualitative Since the day's Torah quota has formance is inescapable, development In comprehension and already been completed, there Is no recall. longer an incentive to choose Torah and one who takes bis over other "necessary" activities. obligation seriously will A PAGE FROM ACADEMIA Nevertheless, some ground has been quickly take corrective gained over totally unstructured he secular academic world time-allotment A sufficient-or at measures. does not seem to possess the least marginally sufficient-amount same deficiencies in Inde­ of time must be allocated to prepare T pendent study that the Torah world the specified amount of material. In obligate himself to a qualitative level has. The concept of homework ls not addition, even though the time of achievement? Quantity can be foreign. and a serious student will commitment may not have been monitored; quality Is much more generally succeed. Accepting the honored, an obligation to complete In tangible. A person will find other premise that the topics taught at the material is still there. However, "necessities," much more attractive universities are not more captivat­ by limiting the study of the chosen options. than to spend further time ing or meaningful than our Torah. material to pre-defined times, much on analysis and review of material one would conclude that the stu­ of the benefit of this program is lost that he has already covered. It dents are somehow more motivated. Even if the personal resolution should be noted that a quantitative Careful examination of their system has not been bounded by time program to review will yield signif­ reveals that most professors are very constraints, there is still no moti­ icant qualitative results. However. to reluctant to reward high marks to vation to comprehend and recall the undertake such a program requires students solely on the basis of their material covered. How can one enormous self-discipline, which Is verbal confirmation that they have covered the material. Usually a midterm and final are Involved In SARA SCHENIRER SEMINARY the grade-determination, with some New York intermediate-level tests in between. Since a higher GPA Is the student's goal. he will review the material until SEMINAR YERUSHALAYIM It ls fully understood and committed Jerusalem to memory. While the yeshiva world and the are pleased to announce that REGISTRATION is in progress for the world of the Torah baal habayis are not modeled after secular academia, it would still be worthwhile to INTENSIVE SEMINARY duplicate this system of testing as a means of self-motivation. Even and the regular HALF-DAY SEMINARY. though the grades will not matter to a potential employer, they will These programs are located in make a personal difference. A poor Brooklyn, New York grade is an undeniable indication of Improper study. One who Is re­ and are under the direction and leadership of the Menaheles solved to maintain his program will study more diligently next time. A Rebetzin Malka Paretzky good grade is a source of joy and Graduates of high schools and those returning from Eretz Yisroel satisfaction. This Is the best source for self-motivation, for when one can are invited to inquire. Applicants entering the second year witness tangible results of his Seminary class are offered a program which takes into account labors. it spurs him on to new their first year studies in Eretz Yisroel and avoids repetition. achievement. Anyone who commits Details of the Intensive and the Half-day seminaries. Dormitory . himself to a testing program will facilities. and registration information available by letter or phone: acquire a strong motivation and be 4622·14th Avenue. Brooklyn, NY 11219 (718) 633-8557. guaranteed of almost certain success.

20 The Jewish Observer. May 1989 There are a number of programs presently available to the general Torah community. Mifal Hashas, the pioneer in this area, under the leadership of the Klausenberger AN URGENT REMINDER Rebbe, N""''l!J, has two programs FROM presently available: a rigorous thirty b!att-a-month program with Rashi and Tosajosand arevleweveiythree CHEVRA DOR YESHORIM months, and a new ten b!att-a­ month program with Rashi and YOUNG PEOPLE OF MARRIAGEABLE AGE MUST BE TESTED Tosajos primarily developed for in order to prevent the scourge of Tay-Sachs disease from striking the next baalei battim. A newly-Initiated generation, in accordance with the directives of the Gedolei Hader. American-based program- Foun­ SCHOOLS and YESHIVOS: dation for Torah Knowledge­ Please call 718-384-2332 if you are offers a variety of programs in interested in having testing done for students. Gemora. Mishna, Kitzur Shulchan Genetic counseling is also available. Aruch, and Mishna Berurah with smaller amounts of material to be Call for an appointment: covered for people with busier (718) 384·6060 or (914) 783-1370 schedules. Confidentiality assured. One does not have to limit himself to the publicly available programs in his search for self-motivation. It CHEVRA DOR YESHORIM, INC. is possible to design one's own 160 Wilson Street, 1-B, Brooklyn, NY 11211 program in a topic that interests him at his own pace. It is obviously not possible to self-test. One can, however, enlist the help of others. since 1928 If one is close to a yeshiva, the services of the Rosh Yeshiva or one of the Rabbeim can be solicited. If FREEDA® one has a Rav, he might welcome a request to aid in his congregant's Torah learning. Rabbi Avigdor Miller, N""''\!J, has a system of review VITAMINS and testing that he employs with THE BEST IN THE VITAMIN WORLD great effectiveness in his F1atbush 36 E.-41st'S{., New Vork, NY 10017 (212) 685·4980 kehilla. [The author envisions the establishment of a network of ded­ Over 250 Vitamins, Minerals and Amino Acids to cover all your vitamin needs. Our vitamins are made on the premises bnei Torah, icated each an expert under strict pharmaceutical and kashrus standards; in a parlicular Mesechta or area of Freeda Vitamins are parve and vegetarian and are under the halacha, who Will be available to Rabbinical Supervision of the Orthodox Union and Rabbi administer tests in their specialty. Mordechai Kohn from New Square, N.Y. If successfully Implemented, this • No su'gar • No sulfates • No coal tar dyes plan will afford eveiyone the oppor­ • No starch •No salt filler • No animal stearates tunity to monitor their learning regardless of their Interests and abilities.I The one who seeks will Your children deserve the best vitamins on the market and, find, and the proven motivation of a testing program is available to all FREEDA VITAMINS those who are seriously interested. with no dyes or sugar, are the best. THE FINAL Freeda LKV drops for infants Freeda chewable Vitalets for children The Gemora in Kesuvos15 Freeda Yelets for teenagers recounts the last days of S Rabbi Chanlna bar Pappa. He There is no reason to buy anything else! was an acknowledged Torah giant

The Jewish Obseroer, May 1989 21 in his generation. He was so great learned should be 'in his hand' so from "Lo Yamush." which does not indicate that. at his funeral, a pillar of fire that he will not be shamed and requirement for recall. However, only one of four 16 opinions in Menachos 99b derives from "Lo Ya­ descended to separate his coffin disgraced on that Day." For this mush" any obligation greater than the recitation from his entourage, lmplylng that reason the Malachei Hashareis of Krias Shema, and the Bavli in Nedarim Ba none had even approached his proclaim: "Fortunate is one who brings the opinion that only Krtas Shema is de­ rived. Even according to the GRA. ''Vshinantom" greatness. Yet, when his time had arrives in the Next World with his is not fulfilled if no attempt is made to recollect come to pass on to the next world, Torah learning in his possession." 17 the matetial. A possible reconciliation of the GRA with the Gemora is that "I..o Yamush''.Js defined he begged for more time: "Thirty Rabbi Chanina's last-minute by ''V'shinantom." the latter being a definition days, until I completely review all of preparation was a natural conse­ rather than its own mitzva. According to this my scholarship." Wouldn't a very quence of his apprehension over his line of reasoning, "Lo Yamush" obligates one to learn constantly until he has reached the level special place have awaited Rabbi imminent examination. We too of "V'shinantom." After this, he fulfills "Lo Chanina even before his review? Yet, cannot be satisfied until we have Yamush'. with the dally recitation of Krias for Rabbi Chanina It was not complete recall of our learning. It is Shema. The Gemora refers to such a person. hence the minimal obligation. This explanation enough. difficult and onerous. but with was derived from the Kuntras Acharon of the Rabbi Yishmael said: ''Visualize sufficient bitachon and proper Shulchan Aruch HaRav. be 6. Tanna D'vei Ellyahu.. quoted by Chafetz how difficult the Day of Judgment discipline, it can accomplished. Chaim ln introduction to Likutei Halachos. will be.... When a learned man will 7. Kesuvos 77b approach, Hashem will ask him if 8. Kiddushin 31 a FOOTNOTES 9. ibid. he studied Torah and he will reply 10. ibid. s.v. ·greater' in the affirmative. Hashem will then L Yoreh De'ah 246:1 11. Yoreh De'ah 246:1 2.p.Ba 12. Orach Chaim 155:1 demand: 'Since you have claimed 3. Yoreh De'ah 246:25; also see Mtshna Berurah 13. Mishna Berurah 155:4 that you learned, please recite all 155:4 14. ibid. that you learned.' In anticipation of 4. Choshen Mishpat Laws ofTalmud Torah. ch. 2 15. 77b 5. Acc. to Ran on Nedartm Ba. The GRA (Vilna 16. Mldrash on Mishlei ch, 10. quoted by Chafetz this encounter, !the Sages] have Gaonl in Sh 'nos Eliyahu.. Pe'ah 1: l derives the Chaim in Chomas Hudas ch. 10 said that everything that one obligation for !earning with all available time 17. Kesuvos 77b

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22 The Jewish Observer, May 1989 Advertlsement

ASta1yasOld as tlleHills

urstoiybeginscenturtes~. rabbinic smicha With tests on the become a residence for families of the Its setting is a bastion of Turand theShulchanAruch. Sanz Kolle!. Torah and sanctity, a place of OUl'REACH ACTl\IJTIES - At ORAARrGALLERY-Oneofthe Ounsurpassed peace and tranquility present. a number of shiUrim are unique features ofSanz organizations -the holy City ofTzfas. being given - in Hebrew and English and a prime attraction for toUrism in Its key players are the .wealth of -suited to the needs ofbaalei-tshuva Tzfas' Old City, is theORAArt Galleiy. scholars. scribes and Torah giants On the tenth of Shevat 5747 the Managed byYaakovKaszemacher, a whose veiypresenoe inTzfas ignited Sanz Beis Hamidrash inaugurated Klausenburger Chassld and inter­ a brilliant flame that illuminated all the Eitz Chaim Program of Jewish nationally acclaimed geometric the world. Studies in Tzfas, currently the only painter, thegalleryfeaturesonlyworks Years pass and the stoiy takes a program in the holy city of Tzfas devastating tum as plague. natural offering daily shiurim in English for diSaster and a general breakdown in newcomers to the Torah way. In law and order transforrn Tzfas into a addition, a women's group ·meets city of rubble and ruins. The efforts once a week for shiurim in 1870 of the saintly Tzaddik of MIKVEB - The newly-built. two­ Tzfas - the Dtvrei Chaim - to restore stoiy mikveh serves not only the the city flourished for a time, but residents ofTzfas but also those on werethwrutedbytheadventofWorld the surrounding moshaVim. In War!. addition to the women's mikvah, the The end of the Second World War original mikveh of the Chinover Rav saw a renewed Interest in the has been renovated. produced by religious artists, several HOUSING - Over the past several rebuilding of Tzfas. and the Divrei of whom are local baalei-tshuva. All years, the Sanz organizations have Chaim's great-grandson. the Grand profits from the galleiy go to the Rabbi of Sanz-Klausenburg. deter­ developed Shikun Sanz and restored support of the Kolle!. mined to take up the mission his Beis Unger. In the near future, the K\lrt'LECH PROGRAM - In the illustrious ancestor had begun. Tolchover House, a restoration project great z'chus of supporting Torah of the dwelling site of the late Rabbi study, a chevra from the Sanz Kolle! ThusProject Ora was born.canying Moshe DaVid Ashkenazi, Rav of are regularly mispallel for donors and With it the objective to re-establish Toltchov and Rav ofTzfas nearly one their families at the gravesites of Tzfas as a renter ofTorah study and hundred and thirty years ago, will Gedolim burled In Tzfas. a focal point of JeWish life In Eretz Yisroel. Today. Project Ora's various We're Coming Home to the City Our Hearts Never Left programs and institutions include he sacred message qfTorah Only with your generous support KOLLEL-Numerous members of and Ahavas Ylsroel that can Project ORA hope to rebuild the Sanz Kolle! participate in the T radiated.from Tefasso many Tefas and make it once again a nation-wide "Miphal HaShass" years ago was universal. qffertng spiritual hOmefor K'lal YtsroeL program, initiated by the Klausen­ spiritual mooring toJews the world Please send your tax deductible burger Rebbe, in which students are over. contribution to: tested monthly on large portions of AJllERlCAIV .F'RlElVDS OF PROJECT ORA Gemam,RashiandTosqfotAsimilar 5407 - 19th Avenue, Brooklyn. N.Y. 11204. 718-331-0575 program exists in preparation for

Dr. Elliot Udell

Spending Shabbos In A Modern Hotel WITH SPECIAL FOCUS ON ATTENDING A MEDICAL CONVENTION

bservant young men and the participant may be forced to women are enteringthe med­ spend Shabbos in totally alien Oical profession in ever-in­ surroundings, Without a ·minyan, creasing numbers. and as a matter completely devoid of the spirit ofthe of course frequently attend "week­ day. Before entering such a situa­ end" conferences in hotels and tion, each physician should discuss resorts. While the discussion that With his Rav the relevance of the follows outlines some of the prob­ specific convention to his practice. lems he or she may encounter over and his need to attend. Not every a Shabbos, the convention-attend­ "may" in this article is meant as an ing physician's situation is not imperative. It is only offered as a unique. The same problems face possibility to be fmiher explored. other hotel/resort guests. traveling professionals and businessmen. and they too can gain an awareness I. AT THE HOTEL of what to anticipate from the discussion that follows. opportunity to mingle with col­ THE ELECTRONIC DOOR-LOCKS A practicing physician ls obli­ leagues from varied backgrounds, PROBLEM gated to keep abreast of the latest attend lectures given by renowned discoveries and developments, and experts, and see demonstrations of When attending a convention Will attempt to enrich his or her new procedures and instruments. three years ago, I filled out the knowledge by reading medical jour­ Unfortunately. most medical semin­ registration papers, signed the nals and by attending conferences ars are held on weekends and this credit card form, and was then and seminars. At such gatherings. presents the religiously observant handed a small plastic card With the participating doctor has the physician With a serious dilemma, computer punch-out holes along its especially since medical conferences outer border. Before accompanying Dr. Elliot Udell in private practice in Cold Spring Harbor and Hicksville, Long Island, is on the are usually hosted in some of the the bellhop to my room, I asked the board of governors o_f The Association of most elegant hotels in America, receptionist for my key. She pointed Orthodox Jewish Scientists. He has led three which tend to have sophisticated to the plastic card in my right hand national -conventions for that organization and has published papers on conferences and electronic gadgetry functioning in and replied: "Sir. that's your key. conventions. every nook and cranny. In addition. We've gone on the new system of

The Jewish Obseroer. May 1989 25 electronic door locks. When you insert the card in your door, a computer reads the code and the Medical conferences are usually hosted on electrical system unlocks the door. weekends in some of the most elegant hotels in The system prevents burglars from stealing room keys and robbing America, which tend to have sophisticated guests.'' electronic gadgetry in every nook and cranny. Luckily, my roommate was not Jewish and I followed him Into the room on Shabbos. The problem has since become widespread, and has the director became extremely upset or elevator. Stair cases are reserved even affected resorts that have glatt and explained that even if I as a for fire emergency purposes and Kosher dining rooms! guest might be willing to risk the using the back stairs will trigger a theft of my own property in an fire alarm. Suggestions: unlocked hotel room, no guest has It may be permissible to use an the right to put the hotel's property escalator on Shabbos If it Is in One should consult with his Rav In jeopardy by leaving the door constant motion at all times. Eleva­ regarding the permissibility of unlocked. tors, however, present a more severe asking a gentile to open the door problem. According to Sheldon Kornbluth, former president of the with the card, and if It might not ELEVATORS AND ESCALATORS be preferable to request one gentile Association of Orthodox Jewish to ask a second gentile to do so. Scientists, an engineer who has An alternative is to stuff the lining Posh hotels located near neigh­ spent years working on this problem of the door with paper, so that the borhoods with high-crime rates (and whose research gave birth to door never closes. When I ran this often do not permit guests to use the concept of the Shabbos elevator option past the management of a the staircases to get past the lobby. that is currently in use at Shaarei particular establishment, however, They must take an escalator and/ Tzedek Hospital In Israel), different elevator systems function differ­ ently. Some will use more electricity for every pound of added weight. Others have electronic sensors ·Oian.tofili.e beneath the floor and electrically register the presence of every pas­ senger, and when an arbitrary ~t,;~IJero number of people enter, the doors automatically close and the elevator 0£/tlie Heart. .. starts moving. In any case, one must be aware of electric-eye sensors that Here, for young readers, is keep elevator doors open as long as the story of Rabbi Aryeh Levin, a person stands in the path of the light-ray in the doorway. None of whose love and self-sacrifice on these are permitted on Shabbos­ behalf of his fellow Jews was never mind the problem of pressing unique in his generation. the button for an individual stop. He was loved by all because he, indeed, expressed his love Suggestions: to everyone: prisoners, lepers, orphans, widows-he took to heart Without knowing the internal the anguish of every Jewish engineering of a particular elevator, heart. and obtaining an halachic decision HARDCOVER $ l l.95 from a Rav, it Is not advisable to And now his story comes alive in the pages of this inspiring use an elevator or escalator on book written with warmth and care by RebAryeh'sowngranddaughter. Shabbos. One should call the man­ agement In advance and find out if RabbiArveh :Ll!\>ih ls alsothe subject of the contemporary Feldheim classic, stair-cases can be used from the • · .ATZADDlKIN OUR TIME. ground floor up, and if not, if the stairs can be used from the second 6 f..'E~D'~~~'PuB'tisHERs Visa & MasterCard accepted or third floors on. If the latter is fri 200 Airport Executive Park, Spring V~lley, N.Y. 10977 Send for your free copy of possible. the only solution is to t'..1 Tel. (914) 356-2282/Toll free• 800-237-7149 our new Jubilee catalog. remain above ground level for the

26 The Jewish Observer, May 1989 entire Shabbos. On the other hand, if stairs cannot be used under any PINCHAS MANDEL circumstances and elevator use Over 35 Years Experience in Kvura in Eretz Yisrael becomes a must, a Jew may not be able to attend that convention on •Dedicated to Kavod Haniftar with personal Shabbos or Yom Tov. responsibility throughout service •Highly recommended by Gedolai Hadar -Here and in Eretz Yisrael- AUTOMATIC DOOR OPENERS AND HALLWAY VIDEO CAMERAS 1569 - 47th Street, Brooklyn, New York 11219 Day & Night Phone (718) 855-5121 Honesty - Integrity - Reliability Many resorts, hospitals and even CHF.SED SHEi EMFS .a~ understood and practiced by one active in the industry more than ha!f a cf>nfury. apartment buildings have "elec­ Taharas Haniftar Should Never Be Commercialized tronic eyes" above the front door. When a person gets Within its range, a motor is triggered and the door automatically opens and subse­ quently closes. Another problem triggered by security measures is the presence of video cameras in hallways. These devices, which are always on, enable security guards to monitor who is walking in the halls at any particular time. Under the Dynamic Leadership of Suggestions: Rabbi Dovid Teichman Rabbi Moshe Zimber When entering a building where the door is controlled with an SPECIAL DISCOUNTS electronic device, one is advised to Early Registration wait until someone else enters for Discount $50 Off his or her own reasons, and then Second Child quickly walk in just behind them, Additional $50 Off entering the lobby slightly ahead of Rebbi & Kolle! Families them ... quite a tricky assignment. Additional $50 Off The video cameras may not be a problem since they are always on and it is not the purpose of the people walking down the halls to be ···no.vouW~nt1~~t1~11y~~~~.t~~ti? photographed. If anything. it is an Mil~~~S, Gi~iftl~~CJ'!Sh!ft'I· .· ".:r.·1~!~~/ intrusion of privacy and may be a · · Consider· · · nuisance. Obviously, it would not be permissible for someone to stop in front of a video camera and TV ¥El·H1WA·lllf<;a$ ..·119\iilf'·. screen to make a point of being seen. 12~iAver1tie•.~srSe>~tli~,

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America is becoming increasingly ·cHULIN: M.•w)·1,26/\f.1..1-1ar?Ystlaltlst1~n·.~~~~··· conscious of the pressing need to YO REH. [)EAl'l:T, Tt) ~,45 Af\?.,-!i!:ll'!lVAsnE!l'?:irTjrp~tgleilf conserve energy, and hotels are GITTIN/KEbUSHIN:W3:00 PM;,.HorovMelect(Schaohtet complying by Installing energy­ The p\Jt>lio l~welc:Qrne to ciitel'lcl ttl~~~i~rltti. ·· saving devices In guests bedrooms. Tl)eteare.0r:>enkJQ~iri:our1(0lte1.(P./f.orF/1):·• A Rav In Cleveland recently received an emergency telephone call Erev F!lrr-iu1~CJl1'1~ ~t~~rnia,l1~c:~ll~11~~llil;r~~~i.~•~,3~o,1i Shabbos, from several people stay­ Preparef'!t'a careers~ngKkll '\'ISi'(lel.lii Chlnuc1*1

The Jewish Observer, May 1989 27 entered their rooms, they noticed a small metal box on the wall with a flickering red light. The light went America is becoming increasingly conscious of on and off in synchrony with the the need to conserve energy, and hotels are com­ movements of the people in the room. They immediately phoned the plying by installing energy-saving devices in guests front desk and asked the manager bedrooms, which can involve Chillul Shabbos. what the gizmo with the flashing light was all about. She replied, "Our hotel is committed to saving energy. stantly violate the Shabbos. Until door-opener will apply. Simply wait When a person in a bedroom moves, further study proves otherwise, and for another person to enter the area. there is a change in pressure which this is confirmed by a Rav, people follow after him, and leave ahead of is sensed by the device and the light would be well advised not to stay in him, as described before. On the goes on and off. If there is no such a room over Shabbos. other hand, If the system Is con­ movement in the room for ten stantly registering movement and minutes, the device will deactivate EUROPEAN MONITORS keeps the lights on so long as there the thermostat and the heat or air is an individual present, there is a conditioner will go off. If a person In many European hotels. hallway serious problem and a Rav must be is out for an hour and comes back and bathroom lights are attached to consulted (On some cruise ships, to his or her room, the device will electronic eyes. As a person enters bathroom fixtures such as flush­ Immediately tum the heat or air the room or hallway, the lights toilets are electrically operated by conditioner back on." automatically go on, and then go off pressing a button, which is clearly when the person leaves the area. forbidden .... ) Suggestions: Many European hotels will deac­ tivate these energy-saving devices CHAMBERMAIDS ON SHABBOS Since any movement-whether it on request of a Sabbath observer. be walking to the bathroom or If the system cannot be shut off, Chambermaid service Is provided rolling over in bed-causes an however, a quick analysis of the to tidy up the rooms. provide fresh electrical impulse that is ultimately system Is critical. If it operates towels and make the beds. Cham­ beneficial to the person staying in merely by an electronic-eye that bermaids with also tum off any the room, staying in such a room registers a passing figure, the same lights that may have been "inadvert­ would cause the person to con- solution used for the electric eye- ently" left on by day, and tum on lights in the evening. Neither service is necessarily a favor to the Sabbath­ THE YITTY LEIBEL observing guest. The solution is simple. Put a tape over the light switch for any light HELP·LINE that you wish left on, and leave a visible note for the chambermaids A Free Service ofthe YittyLeibe/Chesed Fund asking them not to put any other lights on. • Marital Problems? . • Fear of break•down? • Overpowering stress? • Parent'child friction? n. THE EDUCATIONAL PART Do you have problems like these and are afraid or ashamed to talk to OF THE SEMINAR anyone? ... Do you want a trained, wise, warm professional who will talk .to yoll onthe phone? ince the only legitimate rea­ Some of the Torah. community's highly skilled psychologists, social son for attending a medical workers, and therapists are ready to help. Your consultation will be S conference on Shabbos is to treated with the utmost discretion: You may remain anonymous lfyou enhance the medical care one gives prefer, They understand. They're trained. They have Ahavas Yisrael. to one's patients. attending the academic portion of the seminar is H 0 u R S mandatory. There are, however, Monday through Friday 8:00-12:00 a.m. problems with Shabbos at the Sunday through Thursday 9:00-11:00 p.m. lecture sites. For example-- Sunday Morning 9:00-12:00 noon Dial (718)HELP-NOW (435-7669) TIIE LECTURE HALL Thiipro}ed has been :approved. by leading torah authorities. t'or information Onlycall.(718)435•7106.·Tapes ofYahrtzeit Kious available, Call 71843t;.5793, If taken blindfolded into the lecture site at a well-attended med-

28 The Jewish Obseroer, May 1989 !cal convention, when the blind is solitary Jewish participant may be and a plastic spoon when drinking removed one might think that he or permitted to take a cup of the coffee at a hotel.) she was sitting in a broadcast studio beverage. A large percentage of the Shabbosmeals constitute a major of NBC or CBS. The lecture podium participants at a medical confer­ problem. Many hotels will provide a and hall is hot wired With micro­ ence. however. may indeed be Jew­ guest with airline meals if the phones, video cameras and all types ish. In such cases, the hotel would request is brought to their attention of recording devices. Microphones be making coffee with an arbitrary one or two weeks ahead of the are strategically placed throughout number in mind, which would convention. But one must make the audience, to facilitate question­ include the Jewish participants certain that the hotel management and-answer sessions. Significant making it impermissible for any does not heat up a Kosher airline lectures are recorded and the tapes Jewish person to use such coffee. meal for a Jew on Shabbos. Even are sold or distributed to other (Needless to say. it is advisable in if the hotel is notified before Shab­ physicians. If the speaker is about any case to request a disposable cup bos, this is still forbidden. to reveal some earth-shaking discov­ ery. the event may even be covered by the news media, which is gener­ ally well-represented at important medical conventions. The problem ',', "",-,' is simple: Can a Jew be an active ~-::-,:__ -/ _::' ,'-,'' " '" _<\-__, ___ :::-i_:_-: :::->', '_ participante in a session taking 'l:es~~osiin t11!1w1"'1> • P"IN>; l'{t) facility on Shabbos? ;'-':,,, '-, ,',' ,', i ,,' ''.' '"

Suggestions: ~raiiilff: lft~ieJ'oii )'YJl.?~1lN~>-ti:>~ . · .to atte.m!oui 'lnnwn; ..ti=>:n'.1=> .nN · · Asking a question from the floor in such a setting, so long as one does ·nMrif1ttfbutref . ':)~)?1h n:P't?f.l:i not speak into a microphone and has no personal desire to have his to1rtm~~~n#fw~m~~ •vn llit)1~•W> n:ii~5 .··•• question and the answer recorded, ·· ·Torllli clihilltti: .· ·fll\!I el~Y.:'l"lNtll~ln 5)"1::> should not be a problem. This may. however. create an embarrassing slllullij, ~l'tfi~.. '. ~r.~:s. 749··· •· t\"J1rii"I :tl~:iin .\:1fi •··· situation if the speaker cannot be •.· •.• M~y ~,.19~9:i ·. ~·,~;iµ 1 •j.iw~··"l)~1'( i 11S: heard. because five hundred angry participants out of ear-shot may • > < ...•.· ..·······<·{. attflete?~!t 1\:lli\!I tb t!::>)NJ demand that the questioner use a ••· 43.lA:vmtJJe P, Brl)~ Neiv !tirfi.· ,>'.1.,1~$ji11::1. ,i~ {>J~i1~ !13~ microphone! The best solution might be to reserve questions for after the lecture, in the hallway or at the coffee break. ili1J1il i~ ili,1.,,, il::J"'Z'" COFFEE BREAKS. 25 Decatur Av. Spring Valley N.Y. 10977 LUNCH AND DINNER • Bais Medrash for the serious talmid ages 17-21 Most seminars have a coffee break in the middle of the morning and • Experienced i1v"1> •i•m giving each ta/mid individual attention afternoon sessions. Besides giving • Dedicated to help each iml realize his full potential the participants a needed change of • Highly endorsed by Rav Pam, Rav Gi~er, Rav Rosenblum, pace. this also affords the attending and other leading Roshai Yeshiva physicians the opportunity to min­ gle with each other. Obviously. such interaction can be quite beneficial, Yeshiva Gedola Ohr Hatorah located in Monsey N.Y. when the discussions center on is accepting applicants for the medical practice. coming Jr.it, Elul 1"r.iwn. One might have to enjoy the coffee For an interview contact break without coffee on Shabbos, Rabbi Chayim Nltzllch Rabbi Menachem Apter however. If the coffee was made in (914) 425-0536 (914) 425·1580 one large um for the benefit of the . other. non-Jewish hotel guests, a

The Jewish Obseroer, May 1989 29 Suggestions: having any Shabbos barriers to ments. In order to insure that the getting in and out of the building. participants visit the commercial If all else fails, one can rely on cans areas, convention directors set up A physician of my acquaintance of meat and tuna, gefllte fish, mat­ the logistics so that participants does not attend a medical seminar zah and wine. must walk past the vendors on their without his trusty portable refrig­ way to the class rooms or lecture erator, electric crock-pot, and mic­ theatres. Jewish participants must rowave oven. He brings along ever­ CARRYING IN THE HOTEL be extremely careful not to conduct ything from soup to nuts, and his AND CONFERENCE CENTER business with vendors on Shabbos. Shabbos meals are as good as the ONSHABBOS These salespeople will be around meals served in his home in Brook­ before and after Shabbos, and will lyn. This system works well so long Even though major hotel com­ be quite willing to conduct business as he can drive to the conference. plexes can be the size of a football at alternative times. This does not work when the con­ stadium, one may carry room keys ference involves a four-hour plane and registration cards throughout ride. REGISTRATION AT THE an enclosed area, provided that the CONVENTION For conferences where it would hotel and its equipment are under not be possible to bring along a one ownership. There are other portable kitchen, one may elect to situations when it can also be Medical conferences are quite take frozen prepared chicken or cold permitted. One must review the strict on whom they allow through cuts in a cooler and either ask the details with a Rav. the front doors. First of all. there are hotel if they would store the food high registration fees. Secondly, (double-wrapped) In their master state licensing agencies require that refrigerator or request that a por­ THE BUSINESS AREA OF A CONVENTION attendance records be maintained table refrigerator be installed in the in order to fairly assign credits. And hotel bedroom. If the convention is then, drug companies Inundate held in a Jewish area, one might Most medical conventions have participants with samples of pres­ contact the local Rav and try to space rented to drug and supply cription items, and only licensed arrange for home hospitality for companies. These outfits can detail physicians may obtain these. The some of the meals. This is predi­ the physicians on their latest pro­ problem is simple: Can. a Jewish cated, however, on the hotel not ducts and sell supplies and instru- person walk through the registra­ tion area on Shabbos, knowing that someone will be writing down his ARE YOU MOVING? or her name or crossing it off a check IS YOUR NAME AN() ADQRESS PRINTED list? INCORRECTLY ON THE JO MAILING LABEL? Suggestions: We need your help to ensure proper delivery of the JO to your home. Please attach current mailing labelin the space below, or print clearly your address and computerprocessing numbers that are printed abo\ie your name on the The act of registration for individ­ address label. ual session-as long as no signature is required-is not the concern of ADDRESS CHANGE.FORM the physician. If anything, it is a (Affix label here) nuisance, and may therefore be permitted. One should, however, consult a Rav. At some conventions, the partic­ ipants must sign that he or she was in attendance to gain license­ renewal credits. In such a c,a,se, the participant should meet early on Name.,.------'--~-~-..,.....------with the directors of the seminar and explain that he or she cannot Address~--~------'---~-'------write on Friday night and Saturday City, State, Zip -~-~~-...c..-.c.....;...... :...______...c-_ for religious reasons, but Is willing to sign needed documents on Sat­ Datelffective -~-----,....------~~..,. urday night or Sunday. From expe­ Please allO'N 6~8 \~ks for ali change:; to-be reflected on yotir' mailing label. WE WILL N_OT B_t rience, most convention directors RESPONSIBLE FOR BACK ISSUES -MISSED Uri less you notify us S weeks prior fO your move. are quite understanding if this mat-

30 The Jewish Obseroer, May 1989 ter Is brought to their attention well ID. GENERAL SUMMARY make Kiddush for the other Jewish in advance. doctors present, and use the oppor­ tunity to bring another Jew a step NON-PAYING BUSES !though it is possible to par­ closer to Torah and Yiddishkeit ticipate In a medical conven­ If one is staying In a hotel over Sessions at some medical conven­ tion on Shabbos without Shabbosforanyother reason-even tions are held In diverse Iocatlons. Violating halacha. attending such a simcha or a Yom Tov. where the The morning lectures may be at the events are far from the spirit of food is supplied by a reliable cater­ hotel with the afternoon sessions at Shabbos and there is no magic er-one must nonetheless research a medical school or hospital. The formula for overcoming the loss. all of the problem areas in advance. convention usually supplies free bus One way to compensate for the loss Unfortunately, one has to realize transportation to these locations. is by trying to associate with other that the Mashgiach usually limits Ordinarily one should not use such observant people. make Kiddush his supervision to the kitchen and a vehicle on Shabbos. There may be together and if possible daven with dining areas. Also. not all lenient unusual circumstances which may a minyan. decisions rendered for physicians at warrant consulting With his or her If there are no other religious a medical conference apply to the Rav on this matter. people present, one may still tiy to . vacationing hotel guest. •

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The .Jewtsh Obseroer, May 1989 31 , t1'2r.1t:i ;v :i:wnr.i 'vi~n t1'ir.1Nr.1 1T.IT1 1VT.I iM!:I 111'1T.li1 lT.ITl'I 111'Vl With Both Eyes by Rabbi Moshe Sherer In this Hebrew-language collection of essays, insights, and impressions culled from a series of writings that spans nearly four decades, Rabbi Moshe Sherer confirms his reputation as one of the pre-eminent Orthodox activists of his generation. At the same time, Rabbi Sherer reveals a side of himself that is less well known in Orthodox circles: his status as a profound and original thinker, whose vision no less than his actions has earned attention and respect - from the seats of government and the pedestals of the secular establishment to the koslei yeshiva and the local shtiebel. In eighty-seven riveting essays, the author discusses a broad gamut of issues: the responsibilities of Torah activism, the meaning of true Jewish leadership; the role of Agudath Israel as a unifying and galvanizing coalition in the Torah community; the struggles against falsifiers of our heritage, from Reform and Conservative to Secular Zionism; the battle for the soul of the State of Israel; hatzolah efforts, from Nazi Germany to the U.S.S.R to Iran; the message of the Yomim Tovim and the Jewish life cycle. Especially noteworthy are Rabbi Sherer's inspiring and incisive sketches of eighteen Oedolei Yisrael, most of whom he knew intimately and served faithfully. This section, which comprises some 25% of the book, offers warm reminiscences and new perspectives on some of the outstanding SPECIAL OFFER TO Torah personalities of the last generation. JEWISH OBSERVER READERS: This is a book for today - and tomorrow. This exceptional new book It is a primer in courage and bitachon, in l'fetzach is yours for only $11.95 Yisrael and Torah's ability to cross oceans and overcome adversity and Holocaust. (save $4.00) ifyou order NOW! The Jewish Observer I Book Special tl'l'V 'nW:i - 427 pages, hard cover $15.95 84 William Street I New York, NY 10038 Gentlemen: Published by I wish to take advantage of your one-time Mesorali Pu6ficati.ons, Ltd. special offer.' Please send me copy(ies) of 1969 Coney Island Ave. I Brooklyn, 1'fY 11223 ll'l'll •nw:i by Rabbi Moshe Sherer @11.95. En- closed is my check for $ ____

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JEWISH HISTORY From A Torah Perspective

however, that u!timately every his­ torian has to choose from the infinite number of historical facts, major, minor, and petty, and our distinct approach is that we present those facts that Torah tradition marks as significant). The author's words Will be most appreciated by those who have been exposed to the multitude of Jewish historical works and have encountered the liberties taken With our past; In the effort to "debunk" our Torah legacy, unbridled specu!ative theses and outright distortions of the sources are the ru!e. as the Doros Harisho­ nim so convincingly demonstrated. The second section of the book is based on Torah sources. of which devoted to the chronological fratI!e­ AM OLAM: The History of the four volumes have so far appeared. work of Jewish history. Charts are Eternal Nation, by Rav Shlomo The volume before us Is an English provided for all the periods from Rotenberg (Keren Eliezer, Brooklyn, translation of the first part of the Creation to the destruction of the 1988. $13.95). Hebrew work. covering the period Second Beis Hamikdash. Detailed from the beginning of the fall of the footnotes explain and elaborate on The study of hlstmy can yield the first Beis Hamikdash to the rise of the charts, and indicate the sources profoundest Insights into the mean­ Koresh (Cyrus) who permitted the from which the facts are drawn. The ing of human existence-and It can building of the second sanctuary. author persuasively points out how also be a source of disastrous con­ However, before launching Into the unbroken chain of tradition fusion. The Torah directs us to look the historic account, the author establishes the reliability of our into-and learn from-the past provides an introduction dealing .chronological calculations. (In trac­ experiences of our people, to obtain with the uniqueness of Jewish ing this chain to our day.the author guidance for our own times. Yet the history and of the task of the Jewish suggests that the great sages In the lessons to be gleaned Impose obliga­ historian. Confronted with the last generation cannot be called part tions. and all too many are not Interpretations offered by the sec­ of the period of the Acharontm; prepared to accept them. This ls the u!ar historians. who arrange the however, the quote from Erchtn 53a reason for all the diverse efforts to facts of history to flt their precon­ does not really support this state­ distort Jewish history and to rob It ceived ideological pattern, he must ment which would lead to the of Its unique divine character. In provide the picture of JeWlsh history conclusion that it is no longer response to all these efforts. and drawn by the Torah (Rabbi Roten­ possible for poskim today to dis­ Inspired by the urging of Gedolei berg suggests that. whereas the agree With Acharontm) Yisroel. Rabbi Rotenberg undertook secu!ar historian selects facts, It is F1nally, then, the historical chap­ the writing of his monumental our task merely to present the facts ters which are strictly based on our Toldos Am Olam. a JeWlsh history as they are: it must be understood. traditional sources. An Incredible

The Jewish Obseroer. May 1989 33 wealth of material is masterfully ings introduce so much biased in­ on the commonly used Spanish woven together into a most readable terpretation-and it is surely true manuscript version, he correlates it narrative. The Hebrew original has when we are faced with such a to the French manuscript version, its own style and flow and the author magnificent primary source as Rav and in copious footnotes explains warns in the introduction that the Sherira's famous letter to the Kai­ the text and adds scholarly referen­ translation made every effort to rouan community. Written a thou­ ces and elucidations. His work is a preserve this style, even occasionally sand years ago, In 988, It is the first masterful contribution to our at the expense of strict English historical work picking up the knowledge of the past. and opens up usage. This is true, but it does not record of Jewish history in the post this indispensable source to the lay interfere with the readability of the biblical period. In response to a reader. text. We hope that subsequent series of questions from the scho­ volumes will appear in rapid succes­ lars ofKairouan in North Africa. Rav CHASSIDIC REBBES, From the sion and give ever larger numbers Sherira Gaon, in his epistle, ad­ Baal Shem Tov to Modem Times, of readers an insight into Jewish dressed himself to two themes: (1) by Rabbi Tzvi Rabinowicz (Tar­ history as our tradition teaches it. a clarification of the methodology of gum/Feldheim, Southfield, Mich., the Oral Law and its transmission, 1989, $17.95). and (2) a detailed discussion of the THE IGGERES OF RAV SHERIRA history of Torah learning up to his Biographies are, of course, a crucial GAON, translated and annotated by time. He drew on oral traditions and source of historical Information, Rabbi N.D. Rabinowich (Moznaim, written records available to him, and and this volume, containing a large Jerusalem, 1988, $15.95). his letter is still today the basis for number of brief biographical essays all study of the Talmudic and Geonic originally published In the London, Any historian will agree that orig­ periods. England, Jewish Tribune, provides inal "primary sources" are the best Rabbi Rabinowich's work not only a broad array of facts on the rise sources of Information; this is na­ includes the first English transla­ and spread of the Chassidic move­ turally parlicularly correct in Jewish tion together with the original ment and its leaders. The author, history where later historical writ- Aramaic text. While he bases himself himself a scion of the Biala dynasty, gives the basic data on over 60 per­ sonalities-their dates of birth and ver 250 years ago, death, ancestry and followers, the Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzato localities where they were active, the works they wrote, and the main wrote a text to help you in the thrust of their teachings. Covering study ofTaltnud ... such a vast canvas, the author has had to condense his material. Thus And nowit's available the Introduction to the book Is quite sketchy in its discussion of the role in English! of the Chassidic leaders and the Rather than simply defining the Talmudic key terms, this Just Arrived! unique guide illuminates the actual thought processes of our l1'i1Y.l?l1 ''i!:l1?P'~lN Sages, bridging Talmudic analy­ "'" 1i'.l sis and the principles of logic. • Hebrew text appears with full ENCYCLOPEDIA vowelization together with a careful, precise translation on TALMUD IS facing pages. Volume 19 HARDCOVER Sl6.95 "The appearance of an English translation fulfills a vital need in making this sefer accessible as an educational tool for teachers and Also the Famous Grunwald Shas is now available in genuine leather. students alike." - Rabb.i Chaim · p . S ch e1n· b erg, y es h zva· T ora h O r At all Hebrew bookstores. We are proud to place this volutn_e alongside our other hi-lingual editions of the classic works of Rabbi Moshe' Chaim LmzauO: The Path of the JuSt; The Way of-G-d; and The Knowing Heart Dealers contact M.S. SPIEGEL

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34 The Jewish Obseroer, May 1989 historical factors that defined their illuminate his subject-would lead work. The Toldos Yaakov Yoseph Is; THE CHAZON ISH, The Life and the reader through the various of course, discussed briefly, but Ideals of Rabbi Avraham Yeshayah stages and crises that the Chazon there is no mention of the enormous Karelitz, by Rabbi Shimon Finkel­ !sh had to deal With, and his teach­ controversy it engendered and why. man (Mesorah Publications, Brook­ ings, oral and in writing, in which The nineteen year seclusion of the lyn, 1989, $16.95 h.c .. $13.95 p.b.). he formulated his approach to life Kotzker is mentioned, but no dis­ and Avodas Hashem But there is cussion of this phenomenon is This latest volume in the Artscroll nothing pedantic or pedestrian offered. And what shall the reader History Series is crafted very differ­ about the author's approach; his take from a statement that the ently from Rabbi Grossman's work; presentation keeps the reader fas­ Ylsmach Moshe "opposed mixed yet It is in its way as remarkable a cinated-and the illustrations dancing"? Yet if this work does not book as The Legacy qf Slobodka­ greatly help In this respect, related offer an in-depth discussion of the demonstrating that there are differ­ as they are to the narrative text. The personalities listed, this can really ent ways to capture the essence of Chazon Ish's way of serving G-d is not be expected of a worl<: designed a great personality. Rabbi Finkel­ far beyond our grasp; but even so to give a basic introduction to the man-carefully and with loving we Will be inspired to take to heart great leaders of Chassidus; this goal attention to details that would and try to benefit from many points the author has attained, and the reader looking for such an introduc­ tion and survey will find his essays most helpful. WITH YOUR THE LEGACY OF SLOBODKA, The BUSINESS Life and Thought of Hagaon Rav ANO PERSONAL INSURANCE Mordechai Shulman, by Rav INSURANCE" Reuven Grossman, rendered into Monticello (914} 796·150ll English by Rabbi Moshe Dombey IRVIN6 SAFRIN Monsey (914} 425· 1985 (Targum/Feldheim, Southfield, Mich .. 1989, $12.95). We had occasion previously to •... ·. ·. / ...... )) <)...... ·.. : review the author's biography of Rav Chaim Shmulevitz, The Rosh Yeshiva. and to pay tribute to his .. ;>········· ············. ,_..,.61).]'iv.t1r;·~~~~1\~~· . •.·.•·• .... > .....•...• extraordinary gift to bring to life the A...... ~;;.: ...... ·/{(:··>< •·.···•·.···• personalities and teachings of gedo­ lei haTorah. Tragically, Rav Gross­ ••Hlllldt""ds ~t~~~?~•· man was taken from us by a traffic a?~)'l~~")~•:i'!~otl~t·• accident; the present volume is a •.~~~ll)p~ettt~f\~~··•.:••·······. worthy memorial to him. It is an s.tt\l~.lj(~·.~)!~.t't!i')l~'\'.~~ incredibly moving lyrical evocation • LOMDUS • l)f .clliSSical fofudui; · · of an unforgettable personality by a • ~ ;~~~i~~~1~.~1~.t6t di~ man who sat at his feet as a disciple A· Substructural Analysis of vefulll) .. lamdon; · . and-despite his protestations to Conceptual Ta/nJudic Thought the contrary-was able to grasp .Af.'~!eri1;;ti 1ol>1rifi1i1~ something of his spiritual essence. •.• ~ro~r~iv~J~~!>t\'. This book offers the salient facts ~ A\'llifi!~lef milt!btll\V lllli! ·. Ehgllsfl/tl~btll\V.tQiUo~ about the life of the Slobodka Rosh > ' '" "•'• ' Yeshiva (and, in the process, we get glimpses of his great rebbeim, such ;.•:· ..·:JnCttid~inrahY :i//tiif~.. pY~Cisit. and:i ·. ./Jt,iJ.t!lta_:(~'f#·· i,liSJi~.f!:, J~.tO :' 1iU"!~il!,•· as the Chafetz Chaylm, Rabbi .Sul)IM•.. \· ·.· . · . :- . , ". < .·-- ','' ' ,. Chaim Ozer and the Chazon !sh); Yilzchak Adler it also lhcludes extracts from his ·tt·n·:.fdt~'- >t.~·, .. ~·in;· shni·~ shmuessen that reflect the unique­ ness of his thought and that of Slobodka in general. But, beyond all this, there is the whole radiance of the Torah world focussed in one outstanding man.

The Jewish Observer, May 1989 · 35 in the book-from the Chazon Ish's welfare needs that fall within their comments about the marvels of scope. There have, of course, always G-d's creation to the text of the been women who were called upon tefilla which he composed for moth­ by circumstances to assume a more ers to recite for their sons' success prominent role and who were able in Torah, All the manifold Issues to respond to the challenge, as the that Kial Yisroel had to face In this famous Donna Gracia In the six­ centm:y are treated here and so are teenth century. But the general the challenges-spiritual, educa­ avoidance of the limelight and tional, and otherwise-that each desire for hatznei'ah leches has left individual is forced to contend with, us with a dearth of biographical This is tntly a work to learn from, material on women (it would be a worthwhile endeavor to cull from DAUGHTERS OF DESTINY. com­ what has been written about out­ piled by Devorah Rubin (Mesorah, standing Torah personalities the Brooklyn, 1988, $12.95 h,c,, $9,95 vast amount of information on the p.b.). women in their lives). Thepresentvolumewasproduced This is another volume in the Art­ by the students of the Beth Jacob Why is one year a leap year and scroll History Series, and it too is Academy Seminary, under the gui­ another a regular year? biographical in nature. But It is dance of Rebetzin Karelitz, and Why do holidays fall most often unique in that it deals with focuses on the women who, in Europe and then in America. were on llmrsdays and Shabbos and women-"women who revolution­ ized Jewish life and Torah educa­ active In the seminal period of the rarely on Wednesday or Friday? tion," The crucial role of Jewish Beth Jacob movement and thus Why do some months have two women in the Jewish community made an outstanding contribution days Rosh Chodesh and others only has always been primarily "peni­ to the future of Kial YisroeL By one? mah." on the inside, in the main­ interviewing those who are still with The principles of the calendar by tenance of the fumily, the education us. disciples of those who are no which these questions can be of the children, the help and support longer here, their pioneering work answered are now presented in a given to their men, and the social comes alive-and, at the same time, book that has been heralded as one written "in agreement with scientific theory, fully and clearly HOTLINE enough so that anyone can learn it TO JERUSALEM and understand these concepts In time of illness, surgery or without doubts or questions,"' crisis, special prayers will be from the basics of astronomy to recited at the Western Wall and the actual principles and at our Yeshiva in Jerusalem. calculations of the calendar, CALL 24 HOURS scientific and mathematic ideas (718) 871-4111 have been rephrased in familiar SECLUDED tenminology and fonm. At book's A FREE PUBLIC SERVICE OF OCEANFRONT The American Rabbi Meir end the reader should be able to VILLA ON write a complete calendar for any Baal Haness Charity year. •1100 TROPICAL ISLAND KOLEL AMERICA Published by Moznaim. • 3Bedrooms • Private Pool 'From the approbation of Rabbi KADDISH • Fully Stocked Pantry with Yaakov Schnaidman, Kosher Groceries Mishnayoth, Yizkor & Yortzeit observed with a minyon in our • Fulltime Staff of Two Yeshiva Heichal Rabbi Meir • Car with driver Baal Haness in Jerusalem. M()~aittt IDEAL FOR FRUM COUPLE 4304 · !2th AVE .. BRL){)KLYN. N.Y. 112!9 OR FAMILY CALL 718-438-7680 Call For Free Brochure (718) 871-4111 (718) 336·2760 132 Nassau St., N.Y,, N.Y. 10038

36 The Jewish Obseroer, May 1989 we receive an insight into a world Shanghai) and has contributed to no longer in existence. Both these the Goldberg Report on the wora of aspects of this book have a lot to Jewish agencies during the Holo­ teach us, and its lessons are readily caust. Here he gathers in one volume absorbed. thanks to the down-to' an analysis of the "unorthodox" earth, heart-warming nature of the work done by Orthodox Jews to save tales told and the excellent editing their brethren, and a survey of the of the interviews. The first part of many rescue activities carried out the volume contains first-person or attempted during the last war, as accounts. while the second part is well as profiles of two or three dozen devoted to Sarah Schenirer and her outstanding workers in the field, legacy, with a final section on men and women, talmtdet chacha­ Rebetzin Vichna Kaplan. A compell­ mim, Kial leaders as well as people ing book that should be read not from all walks of life. Unforgettable only by every girl, but anybody episodes fill the pages of this book, concerned with the quality of Jew­ illustrating Its theme that saving ish iving. lives was a supreme and absolute· imperative for Torah Jews, overrid­ IMPORTANT HOLOCAUST ing any other consideration-per­ LITERATURE sonal, legal, financial, ideological. By From the Torah Anthology the same token, Dr. Kranzler inev­ Collection comes Ruth, the story of itably highlights the failings of the a woman for all time. This THY BROTHER'S BLOOD, The Or­ non-orthodox leaders and agencies outstanding translation of the thodoxJewishResponse during the who were not guided by the same Hebrew Me·am Lo'ez on Ruth, Holocaust, by Dr. David Kranzler principle, and this is perhaps the includes all the original material, (Mesorah Pub! .. Brooklyn, 1987, most painful aspect of this work. adapted and rearranged to weave $16.95 h.c., $13.95 p.b.). However. it must be seen in pers­ pective: while Orthodox Jewry stood the commentaries and individual If there are any areas in which it out in its rescue efforts, there were insights into a rich and vivid is important that we write our own only few individuals of whom it narrative. 'II'° history, rather than leaving it to could be said that they gave their From the Me'am Lo'ez For Youth others. the Holocaust ranks high on all. For the rest of us, this book is series, the story of Ruth is the list. Among the flood of books a sobering lesson. No review can do presented in a fonn which the written about it, this volume stands justice to the wealth of material that young reader will appreciate. out-as an immensely important it contains. But special mention Ruth's nobility of spirit. her firm and immensely sad work. Dr. must be made of the illustrations desire to accept the Torah way of Kranzler has previously written on and documents included, which life, and the implications of her the Jewish refugees under Japanese contribute greatly to the value of a choice for the Jewish people as a rule (notably the yeshivas in much-needed scholarly work. whole are fully explored and developed in this beautifully written and illustrated work. •700 ·· to~df()e>l~ llrid()l!~~~d ~tips Also available from the Torah .·•·~~nitlt'J.'~.,~~().~~~n~on Anthology Collection ... Me'am Lo'ez on Auos, translated At\~.~s ne\\Te~ t'~nst'tstop on@y• into English by Mr. David N. . ~~O)Clour·of.~~·~fl;~o~·~·.e11pital: Barocas, '"l. and edited into a .. TltE.WASHINGtnNOFFICEOF contemporary idiom by Rabbi 1 Aryeh Kaplan, '"l. Stories. parables >A_GliDATS ISRABLOFAMERICA··· and ethical discussions round out this text to produce a clear and · • (jus(~f~~;Ji~~~l~c~frC>iri tl!e\\lhiteHotise} ··.; ... highly readable book. •!GOO Be·br;l~~d.()t1ithe.1ll}OSt··.if11J>Q1ll.ntc.urrent 1\ctfviti~s in,A.g~dat(I ··•··.•···.. ·.···l?rae!'~.advocaeyJor(;Jf!hOd()l(:~~wish.r!gtits~ai1tt Agtldali.t.r!l'!i!lf~~""WaSfung\ Office lt304 ·12th AVL, BROOKLYN. N.Y. I 12!9 swre:411,.1130Rh6d@lahlndAYl!llUe'~.M'.,Washlngt0n, D.C. 20036 7!8.!t38-7680 (202} $35·.1Al4 .

The Jewish Obseroer, May 1989 37 handedness with which he ap· SLINGSHOT OF BELL, Rav EXODUS FROM HUNGARY, by N.D. proached his work. In truth he does Yechezkel Barfenes' Holocaust Weinstock{Published by the author. not have to voice his anguish or Journal {Targum/Feldhelm, South· New York. 1988 $6.95). utter dramatic accusations-the field, Mich.. 1988, $14.95). documents themselves cry to This Is another autobiographical ac­ heaven. They tell the story of the This volume is the English edition count which provides an account of moral failure of men in charge of an of a work originally published in what happened to Hungarian Jews agency that was designed to be the Hebrew. It is a remarkable docu­ through the eyes ofafrumJew. The guardian of human values in face ment: while it records the horrors author was drafted from yeshiva for of war and suffering. The Interna­ of life and death In the camps service in a Hungarian labor battal· tional Committee. essentially a through which the author passed, ion-the beginning of an odyssey Swiss group and under the influ­ It does so from the viewpoint of a that took him through the horrors ence of the Swiss government, hid frum Jew and reflects his constaot of the Holocaust to final liberation. behind narrow legalistic interpreta­ and remarkable efforts to preserve Slim in size. it not only holds the tions of its statutes and resolutely not only his faith but the actual reader's attention but will evoke his closed its eyes to the specific agony practice of as many mitzvos as deep sympathy and a better under· of European Jewry. When the Nazi possible. This distinguishes It from staoding of Holocaust survivors. occupation of Hungary was immi­ the many accounts published by nent. and the local ICRC represen­ survivors since the war. While the tative urgenily asked for action to style Is straightforward and unas­ FACING THE HOLOCAUST IN save Hungarian Jewry, his com­ suming, the reader cannot but be BUDAPEST, by Arieh Ben-Tov (M. munications were met with silence deeply Impressed by the personality Nijhoff Publishers Dordrechit, and evasion. of Rav Harfens and by his ability to Netherlands, 1988) Only toward the end of the Hun­ record insights, feelings and reac­ garian tragedy. when the end of the tions that make us gain a deeper This work is a meticulous study of war appeared to be near, and the understaoding of the tragedy he the International Committee of the pressure of the free world was build­ describes, and of how a Torah Jew Red Cross and the Jews in Hungary ing up. did the ICRC begin to move. copes with it 1943-45. Whereas the above books all of a sudden reinterpreting its focus on the human suffering statutes to permit intervention in ~'!:l) i"l nn~ brought by the Holocaust, this behalf of the Jews. A good deal was "\!)ti scholarly volume is concerned with achieved even at that late point; but documents-the heretofore inac­ this serves to illustrate what could cessible archives of the Interna­ have been achieved by earlier action. )lO'O. ppn~ tional Committee which the author Some individuals emerge from these O>n:l.U'l:Jt:>t.l :ill was given permission to use. He pages as courageous and dedicated himself went through Auschwitz men; but over all. this book is ')W j?~itl and is the only survivor of his another well-documented chapter b\'li?O.) t:>,.0ii'in- ,,rn-

NEW~~~~~~~~~ECO.INC YORK, N.Y. Haolam • •

38 The Jewish Obseroer, May 1989 find it necessary to .imitate men In their prayer? Why do they find them­ selves incapable of linking .their prayers With Chana's? Moreover. the Prophet tells us that our welfare as a nation depends on the tears poured forth by the matri­ arch Rochel, on behalf of her child· ren. Only in the merit of her tears can the exile come to an end (Yirmiyahu 31.14). Why are these women unWilling to join their flow WOMEN of tears with those of Rochel, as JeWish women have done so effec­ AT THE WALL tively throughout the millennia, without mimicking men? Unless their agenda is political, n December 1, 1988, a group stones of that last vestige of the and not spiritual. of more than seventy women Shechina in our midst! And why But why should we read into their prayed at the Western Wall, not? The paradigm of the mispal­ thoughts? Let them speak for them­ O selves: Phyllis Ches! er, ih the pre- reading from the Torah, saying the lel-the petitioner before G-d-is Kaddish, and singing parts of the Chana, mother of the Prophet prayers out loud. As was expected, Samuel (Shmuel I 1,12-13): TO OUR ISRAELI the prayer demonstration kindled ·~nd Chana spoke to her heart"­ J.O. READERS: the wrath of many bystanders, to the from here we leam that a mispallel extent that one man heaved a chair must direct his heart ... "only her lips over the mechitza at the women. moved"-from here we leam that the If you are in kolel or similar circum· The conflict and the single incident mispallel should articulate •.. "and her stances, and find the $28 annual of Violence dominated the media­ voice was not heard "-from here we subscription too steep, a limited Which were inv!ted to this event­ leam that it isforbidden to raise one's number of scholarships have been and the women. portrayed as the voice in his prayers ... (Berachos 30 }. made available at $10 per year due to Victims, were the objects of sym­ Thus, the Talmud deduces .the the generosity of a kind benefactor. daven Send $10-US. only and request pathy: Shouldn't they be entitled to manner ls which we are to scholarship. This offer Is not valid for experience "full, fervent prayer ... from Chana's conduct in Shilo past subscriptions. Write: Jewish the most extraordinary Inexpressi­ 3,000 years ago. Why do these con­ Observer, Suite 1200, 84 William St., ble ... great davening ... beautiful, temporary women choose to Ignore NYC 10038 USA spiritual elevated"?-in the words of the spiritual roots of all tefllla, and one of the participants.• We, for our part, question if these women truly crave the ultimate spiritual experience ofpouring forth their souls at the last remaining Wall of the Bets Hamikdash. Somehow, women have not been at loss for a medium of "beautiful, spiritual, elevated" expression, given a copy of Tehillim in hand, and an opportunity for proximity to the Kosel. How often has the Writer of these lines returned from his own rendezvous With the Wall and, walk­ ing along the elevated plaza west of the Wall. glanced to the left to see any number of women pressing their petitions against the yielding CALL (212) 363·5660 •quotation from Shulamit Magnls of the Recon­ structlonlst Rabbinical College. as per "And the Offices located in BoroPark, Flatbush and Manhattan walls came tumbling down," by Phyllis Chesler, The Jewish Week. March 31. '89.

The Jewish Obseroer, May 1989 39 vlously cited article In The Jewish state in Isrsel. Anything was possible, were respectful of consensus decision­ Week, records her thirteen-year including the Messiah: Maybe she was making. The prayer service was pre­ struggle to convene just this type of with us! But what If the men tried to pared by Rivka Haut together with session at the Kosel: stone her? Send out a press release; no Orthodox halschlc scholar Norms Jo­ one would be crazy enough to have a seph, Reform Rabbi Helene Ferris and Jerusalem, March 1975 religious riot on network television! Shulamlt Msgnus, the director of the In the spring of 1975, I was asked News of our plans traveled quickly, Program In Modem Clvllbatlon at the to invite some leftist and feminist Martin Buber's granddaughter and an Reconstructlonlst Rabblnicsl College. journalists on a media tour of lsrael. ex-nun who had just converted to Helene obtained a Torsh scroll from the Afterwards, in Haifa, I was having Judaism wanted to join us. A group of Hebrew Union College of Jerusalem. cotfee with American novelist Esther feminists were coming from the Negev. She kept It by her side all night-and, Broner, American-born Knesset­ At some level, we understood that she tells me, slept vei:y little. m.ember Marcia Freedman and some religious and-or spiritual women would Thirteen years ago, we dreamt this Israeli feminists when all at once we have to want this or It could not happen dream ofwomen praying together at the were talldng about praying together at with any real meaning. And the reli­ kotel.It was profoundly moving and the Wall; about "integrating" the kotel gious women wereu't "ready" to take on exhllaratlug to be with other women, by praying on the men's side; about the sacred In Judaism •.. united, loviug and absolutely unafraid demonstrating there as a way of August, 1980 of patriarchal violence. demanding a separation of church and In order to pray together, each In 1980, when I visited the Wall, the charedlm-rlghteous, aggressive, woman sacrificed an Important princi­ manlacsl-seemed to beloug to the ple. Women who vowed never to pray behind a mechltza did so; those who Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini's lrsn do not recognize women rabbis were more than to Marc Chagall's mystlcsl PLEASE HELP led in prayer by women rabbis; agnos­ Europe. The charedlm did not look meditative or Jewish-gentle. They tics and goddess worshippers joined us A boy of a family of 10 souls looked like closed-minded woman­ and were moved to tears by the brsvei:y was hit by a truck. Shomer haters to me. The kotel-loug a repos­ and sisterhood of the women. It was an itory of much Jewish yesmiug-had Inspired show of unity both as feminists Shabbos driver was not in­ and as Jews. sured. Boy lost speech, is in lost Its considerable charm, So there you have It. A prayer wheel chair, mother depressed. December 1,1988 service conceived by feminists, de­ Need is great. Kindly issue tax The women's prayer service was signed in conjunction with Reform deductible check to Bikur inspired by Rivka Haut, the Orthodox and Reconstructlonist rabbis, held Cholim Inc. and mail to: co-founder of the Women's Tefillab net­ work and the editor of the forthcoming in feminist-inspired paranoia of RABBI AVROHOM "The King's Daughters: Women in the "patriarchal violence," In full view of Synsgogue." Our participation evolved media coverage-aimed at achiev­ BLUMENKRANTZ . out ofa democrstlc, feminist process­ ing a unity that embraces "agnos­ 814 Caffrey Ave. one facilitated with considerable pas­ tics and goddess-worshippers." Far Rockaway, N.Y. 11691 sion and authority by Reconstructlon­ Such aspirations, such striving for lst Rabbi Debrsh Brin. As feminists, we unity, are clearly based on feminism. not Judaism. •. ·.. ·· . < n••tt 0.:1' \tn Jerusalem's Mayor Teddy Kollek. ,,.,,.Tl not known for his chareidi SYffipa­ ·YESBIYATORASCHAIM thies, condemned this prayer ses­ Denver, Colorado sion. And, as he said In a different :: ', ' / context*: "Unfortunately, all of us ·. Th.,;Mesi~fa ¢tiers an ex·.• YeS,~i!a TorasChaim TafmudlcaJ·Seminary /Denver which Is but a calculated act of vio­ ''· 1)¥QO.'Quitmlln, l>,0,.Box 4067 Denver,. Colorado 80204 303-629'8200 lence against our most cherished :r-1atibl-Yitl<::h6kVva~s~tman Ra'bbl-Y_isro13t:Meir __Kaga_n Rabbi- Yehoshua'Gut_man principles and a desecration of AOsti YeiShlVa -ROsh Ye'shiva Meniihel ",' Judaism's most hallowed shrine.An act of violence not to be tolerated. • ,\ppointmef!lsJorinte,Yiews.in the East c/Jn be lllade by calling 718-377•5517. Api:>ficatlons, tieeepl&d 1rom-a1\-Jewish yOulh wilhOUl 1egard 10 111ee, co\01, n'alioMI or ethnic ¢rlgin or handicap. •N.Y. Times. letter to the editor, April 28, 1989

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Heddy Levi's life is full of dreams and dilemmas. She's only 11, but she's quickly discovering that life is full of unusual problems and funny surprises. For Heddy, it's a lively, enchanting year of growing Receive "Chizuk" in your car, at home, up; for young readers, its 109 or anywhere you hove a tape recorder. pages of the most delightful reading imaginable. INTRODUCING • •• Oh, and just in case you haven't met ... Heddy has an ~ The Best of older brother Jeremy, who appears in a book \ all his own. · l~.:l'l.orning Chizuk'' , ' ~.~~- the ~ with Rabbi David Goldwasser \.---___,,..,, •• \ ·;i _.,, ,'' a

The Jewish Obseroer, May 1989 41 Sil 7 i I il&liliii I i&H i er cartoon and that of the Oliphant Letters cartoon. The former is directed at Jewish existence, at Jewish being, to the the latter at Orthodox control. When a halachic decision is made to Editor implement Orthodox control and lobbying into Jewish government. 11 JJ11mBL&t&Lrauam1J1 !!II we need to have the deepest respect we can enjoy relative peace and the for that decision. At the same time, freedom to practice our religion and we must be prepared for the human reaction of those who will perceive grow in it. This good fortune is a gift from G-d, part of a healing pro­ that lobbying as coercion. It is cess that we, as a nation. have a human nature that if I try to force choice to undergo. Through accep­ someone else to accept something tance of this gift, we can learn to that he doesn't like, he will draw up trust in G-d to trust that the horrible cartoons about me and ridicule me. happenings of the Holocaust are an That is a predictable consequence, exception to the rule and are not and by making that decision to act G-d 's way of allowing His world to out that control. I must be prepared OLIPHANT IS NOT to accept what follows-even if! can­ "DER STURMER" be run. All of that could change, G-d not condone it-as .a course in forbid, tomorrow. But, today, to human nature. To the Editor: NAITALI BASSMAN equate a contemporary cartoon with Lakewood. New Jersey As a child of a Holocaust survivor, a Stunner is to present an unreal­ I had great difficulty with the cover istic "victim" role for the Jewish IMPRUDENT ANALOGY of your December issue. I fail to people today; a role that is neither understand how a Stunner cartoon historically compatible with Berlin, from Berlin, 1938, can be "used" to 1938, nor appreciative of G-d's To the Editor: equate pre-Holocaust anti-Semit­ kindness to us since the Holocaust The discussion on the media as­ ism with the present day resent­ and up to this day. sault on Orthodoxy was well written ments against Orthodox control in Let us put history and hashka.ja and on the mark, as usual The cover government. aside for the moment, and attempt of this issue, however. immediately We are fortunate as Jews today. to relate to the situation on a prac­ struck me as inappropriate. It seems even though we may not know what tical level. There is a clear difference to me that it may not be prudent tomorrow will bring: at least today between the prejudice of the Sturm- and in the interest of Shalom to compare America 1988 (a medina she! chessed-a benevolent coun­ Now in its Second try-to quote Rav Schwab) in any Printing FE IVEL way to Germany 1938. URI KATZ THE BOOK FOR KIRSHENBAUM. Lawrence. New York EVERY JEWISH HOME Ph.D. Registered WHO IS A NAZI l nvestment Adviser To the Editor: Your recent issue on anti-Ortho­ MONEY dox hysteria was most welcome and to the point. The Oliphant cartoon MANAGEMENT on the cover was not only represen­ tative of this hysteria. but also de­ picted two B'nat Torah shaped Fee only. much like swastikas. Oliphant's No sales or commissions, previous cartoons suggest that this was no accident. Attempts to depict Jews. and Israelis in particular, as (914) 352~1919 the "new Nazis or fascists" are At bookstores now Targum Press becoming commonplace in U.S. and world media, reminiscent of Soviet

42 The Jewish Observer, May 1989 propaganda efforts of the past. We is true that the Chareidi and the should demand elementary decency other religious parties may have and respect from our media before some different hashkqfos and the Big Lie spreads any further. agenda, there is also no homoge­ ROBERT A MILLER neity within the ranks of the Cha­ Oak Park. Mich. reidi parties themselves. (The mere existence of 3 or 4 parties that con­ CROOKEDMIRRORSAND . sider themselves Charetdi, proves DISTORTED STATISTICS that.) In Chicago where the Jewish To the Editor: Federation ran a petition and letter In your otherwise excellent res­ writing campaign for those who did ponse to the barrage of Media "Or­ not want to see any change in the thodox-Bashing" (Crooked Mirror "Law of Return," the Orthodox com­ Ill, Teves 5749/Dec. 1988).you start munity responded With a joint state­ by saying that the anti-Orthodox ment from such diverse groups as campaign was brought about by the Agudath Israel of lliinois, Religious unprecedented gains of the "Cha­ Zionists of Chicago, Lubavitch­ redi" parties who won 13 seats in Chabad of Illinois, various yeshivos the recent Kenesset elections. and Orthodox rabbinical groups. Every anti-Orthodox article I have This is the kind of unity within the read or broadcast I have heard has frum community that will help . always referred to the 18 religious further our cause. HESHYWENGROW seats. Chicago. Illinois At a time when observant Jews should be united in their response EDITOR'S RESPONSE: Cholov Yisroel • Shomer Shabbos to the non-observant community's Under the Supervision of diatribe, you have by your subtle Caricature is a prime propaganda K'hal Adath Jeshurun omission of the 5 non-Chareidei tool when the goal is to reduce seats, implied that the non­ people to symbols or-worse-to Open for Breakfast Chareidi (but religious) Knesset sub-humans. Once that is achieved. Luncheon and Dinner Members are J)ot interested in the public has no compunctions Catering • Parties • Meetings Orthodox issues. Are not the other about hating or persecuting these 222 West 72nd Street five religious seats occupied by objects of ridicule. This was one of (212) 595-8487 Shomret Torah U'Mitzvos?While it the first steps that the Nazis used

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The Jewish Observer. May 1989 43 in preparing the atmosphere for (Mizrachl) MK's, this total figure genocide. While there was absolutely does not represent any appreciable no intention of drawing compari­ change over the past 40 years; from sons between the general climate the very beginning, there were 18 and long-range goal in Germany of MKs from religious parties-13 1938 and those of the USA of 1988, NRP, 4 Agudath Israel, one Poale j• ;§;lookitlg __ f()r p~rsonable the very same tools are being used Agudah. But in such issues as draft by media with frightening efficacy. of women and erosion of Shabbos •--- Y?"?g·-~an tofiH dignified This, and this alone, was the intent restrictions, Mlzrach! would often +;5'f?u~te,.r,~ositi()11; •.-;Experie?ce of the analogy. Orthodox activists as not refrain from voting against , n?t nC!(:t!$Sr.iw >Dni l~'!'ll!\ such. By reflecting upon his accomplishments. he was able to THE BOOK FOR take chizzuk and move forward to his new task and situation. It was EVERY JEWISH HOME also a time to recall friendships and MATANA to affirm a willingness to maintain them despite the parting of ways. GALLERY At graduation, the same holds 4906 18th Ave .. Brooklyn. NY true. Many boys will be going out (718) 851-4448 of town to different yeshlvos, and even girls will be going on to separ­ ate Bals Yaakovs. Reaffirming Jewish books. Talleisim. Mezuws. friendships would appear very personalized Tallis bags. worthwhile at that time. It is :;Uso, Tefillin bags. Yarmulkas and naturally, a time to look back upon Chalan covers. cassettes. lucite. the achievements of the past-the sterling silver. Judaica and jewelry. first-time cycle of Chumash In elementary school, and for boys, the ALL AT SUPER first tentative steps into the sea of At bookstores now Targum Press DISCOUNT PRICES! the Talmud-to realize how much progress has been made. It is also

44 The Jewish Obseroer, May 1989 a time t

The Jewish Obseroer. May 1989 45 years ago, and I still remember his While I can appreciate that Dr. TOO PROUD FOR SQUIRMING Fryshman's article was well inten­ graduation with good feelings. It tioned. I don't accept his viewpoint. To the Editor: . was a Siyum Mishnayos in which every boy was invited to speak two J, along with others, look forward Dr. Bernard Fryshman would B'ezras Hashem to attending the minutes ona Mishna; less than half make substantial changes In gra­ accepted. There were no honors. One meaningful occasions of my sons' duation exercises in the schools his boy chosen by lottery said the and daughters' graduations. children attend. First, he would do "Hadran." Parents and grandpar­ away with the "graduates' prattle"­ AsHER MEYERSON ents were invited, and they paid a reference to the children's divrei Los Angeles a small fee to defray the cost of this Torah which he considers an insult graduation-sueda, which was cele­ to the talmidei chachamim pres­ brated Sunday morning as a break­ ent. The graduation celebrates a fast. The only speeches were divrei siyum of what the students have bracha delivered by the principals been striving to learn. I want to be and 8th grade rebbeim there and I would want the talmidei As for girls-let mothers attend chachamim there. It reinforces the exclusively, if there are to be musical rightness of yeshiva education and performances by the graduates, especially tells the graduates that Instead of asking the men to leave. the talmidei chachamim value M.RSABO them. Brooklyn. N. Y. Dr. Fryshman would do away with the valedictorian. On the contrary. DERECH ERETZ life teaches us that not everybody IN ALL LANGUAGES is chosen: and just because you 1"U:l apply for a job, it doesn't mean you To the Editor: CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST get it. I'd be more concerned about After reading the last two "Frysh­ the individual who is chosen, his man" Observers, I have a few struggle wl th arrogance and conceit. suggestions. DR. BENZION Classmates don't begrudge the First-a very personal one to Dr. SOROfZKIN Individual this elevation. Crowds Fryshman. Most parents do not have N.Y. STATE LICENSED typically petrify seventeen-year-old 100% the same values as the yeshi­ speech makers. vas to which they send their child­ ADULTS What Is most important to me as ren. We are all complicated individ­ AND a supporter and active participant uals and such a consensus cannot CHILDREN in the lay community of my day be expected. We therefore try to school Is to have an opportunity to choose a yeshiva that will do the best (718) 266-7151 congratulate the students in a it can to educate our children in moment of salutation and tell their most accordance with our values. parents how much their children Perhaps Dr. Fryshman would be mean to the community, the school, happier if his own children would and for the future of Klal Yisroel. attend a more Chassldishe yeshiva Graduations accomplish this. where Yiddish Is spoken almost Dr. Fryshman, I'm too busy burst­ exclusively, graduations are not ing with pride to be squirming. held, yearbooks are not published. JOSHUA PEARLMAN. ESQ. and girls most certainly do not give Provldence, RI. divrei Torah. Dr. Fryshman would ?th~/Sl!JlPl~st w~y to pay for then only have to work on himself ADDING JEWISH "TAAM" to adapt to the yeshiva rather than x~ur~ul>scriJ>tion l.s·~hrough TO GRADUATIONS on changing the whole system to ~I~~ ~rf\'laster(!ard, They meet his standards. To the Editor: ph1Jng~y<>11rpayment·into·USA Secondly-I would like to suggest cµ~yenpy ~lthout any .. •sur­ I agree with Dr. Fryshman's article we shift the entire emphasis of our (Dec. '88) that there Is room for discussions about Yiddish. After •chafge; We cannot accep.ttor- Improvement in our Orthodox reading all the articles published in ··.·•• eig~.el:\e~K~ .(E!Ven Canadian schools' graduations. The programs the JO, one can only conclude that cl:\~~~~ 1r ~U.$.}, only checks still mimic those of the non.Jewish Yiddish as a language is not being draw.non a bank in the U.S.A. world. taught by means of translating the My son graduated 8th grade from Chumash-or as we call it, "te!tsch" Yeshivah Tifereth Elimelech two (I can personally attest to that, since

46 The Jewish Observer, May 1989 my son goes to a yeshiva where a little Jewish girl. which he records their mothers deliver a dvar Torah "teitsch" is used. and· his under­ in Ghazal for time immemorial! Her to an audience which included standing of conversational Yiddish words .demonstrate her knowledge men? is almost non-existent.) Enough. of Torah, her cleverness, her spunk I agree with Mr. Pearlman's That is the fact. Let's go further and and her chein-quallties of Jewish assessment of the importance of the to what is much more Important. children that have kept our people graduation ceremony for a Day Our yeshiva students must going In the long Golus, qualities my School. For In-town yeshivas, none respect language, any language, be­ father was trying to nurture in me. of the considerations he or Rabbi cause It has the power to convey our But for such qualities to be nur­ Meyerson mentions are particularly attitudes towards others. Let us tured. we need sensitivity. involve­ germane. Referring now to Rabbi combine our efforts to ensure we ment, patience. and listening With Meyerson. I suspect that a careful bring up "Menschen," good G-d fear­ joy and interest to the "Oz"• eman­ examination of many aspects of ing Jews, no matter what lan­ ating from the mouths of Jew!sh graduation ceremonies would find guage-Yiddish, English. Hebrew or children, boys and girls: and not to them much closer to "outside .sour­ Ladino-they speak. extinguish the fire that waits to be ces" than to the seudas pretdah. MIRIAM COFSKY kindled Within them by misinter­ Mrs. Cofsky is correct: Chassidic Brooklyn. New York preting and misleading and misla­ yeshivas have many of the qualities beling children saying Torah as I mentioned. But why Js it wrong to ON YOUNGSTERS prattle. signal to the leaders of the non­ PRATTLING TORAH SHOSHANA PERR Far Rockaway, N. Y. Chassidic yeshivas that we are ready to be moved in a direction that re­ To the Editor: 1. Etruvin 53 2. Mtdrash Etcha captures some of our past? 'Woe for those who are lost and 3. Rabbi Yehuda Leib Nekrttz '"!H I have always felt that the crueial cannot be replaced!" 4. ll)J ,,,.ti, Clj)ll'l Cl'l,,Y l!:IY.l qualities of Jew!sh girls that kept I felt a great sadness and loss as our people going in the long Golus I read Dr. Fi:yshman's article be­ DR. FRYSHMAN RESPONDS: centered around tzenius, modesty moaning the sad state of affairs he and eidelkett "Spunk" might char­ and his maie colleagues experienced I now know that young girls speak. acterize the ladles trying to estab­ as they "stared vapidly into space pronounce, deliver and recite: they lish a prayer session at the kosel, as fifty thirteen- and fourteen-year­ instruct. they enlighten. they not the Bas Yisroel whose kavod is old girl children slinked-shlepped inform. More. they Impress, they pe'ntma. ... By the way. how does down the aisle ... " and then were convince, they instill. But they do Mrs. Perr deduce that "the little subjected to listen to some "young not prattle. To anyone personally Jewish girl" in her story demon­ girls prattling Torah In front of offended, I certainly do apologize. I strated "chein"? talmidei chachamim." I couldn't am tempted to eXplain why I selected BERNARD FRYsf!MAN help but recall a Gemora1 and the a trivlallzating term to describe this parallel Midrash2 told to me by my aspect of graduation. I Will resist late father2 at that vulnerable, this temptation, mainly because I Now in its Second tender age of thirteen. fourteen. don't want to antagonize the three Printing when a young girl's imagination colleagues who are still talking to needs to be fired and her soul me. Suffice It to say that nothing THE BOOK FOR inspired and guided along the I wrote in any way denigrated the arduous road toward maturity. holy work of our Bais Yaakovs, the EVERY JEWISH HOME My father told me how Rabbi mesiras nefesh of our mechan­ Yeshoshua had said that he was chtrn, or the accomplishments of the never vanquished in a verbal duel future mothers of our people. except for the time he was coming Mr. Pearlman Will be happy to to the city and he met a little girl know that I have no objection to filling her pail from the well. "Give "children's divrei Torah"; I do object me a drink," he said to her. "l Will to girls' divret Torah delivered to an draw water for you and for your audience of men. We Jews do not donkey," she answered. "My daugh­ view girls as being female boys, and ter, you have acted just as our the role of one is not the province mother Rivka," he declared. 'Yes, I of the other: For young boys to have acted like Rivka," she retorted. publicly deliver a dvar Torah is "but you haven't acted like Eliezer." traditional, for young girls it is not. Note the ayin tova and nachas Young boys aspire to address which the Tanna Rabbi Yehoshua audiences as adults ..Should young At bookstores now Targum Press exhibits as he quotes the prattle of girls do so, as well? Would any of

The Jewish Observer, May 1989 47 Dt~rr1c)r1str-ic1te Yc)c1r-i Sc1pr)c)r-it Fc)r-i A LJr1iteo T c)r-ic1~1 CcJaliticJr1 __ _ · . <.... ~joini'1!1~tag~:9f;.~~~~1i>i~ /;~·. ··"·.~ ,0{ \·.. · ;··· ...•••.•...•...• oftfy!°:~specttum~0~/~f'/L·.>;\»••;;•<.lf··· ...•... ;\./.;(5!tJ1Annaq~ \~iry.ry.~~... i. i .·.• ···Ag~~"ffl•··l~nae.L~,fA;rn~~!~~ surid8y~t'.l;~,.JLICTe·4,t989/~osfii~~~~;~l'l.~1!4:~ .. · · · f\lewYotl< Marriotti~rgt;Jls · ·

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