·· .. ·.; ...... "i:;:;;;1111iii1iiiiii111111111111111111111 THE JEWISH BSERVER

THE JEWISH OBSERVER (!SSN 0021-6615) is published monthly, except July and August, by the Agudath of America, 5 Beekman Street, , N.Y. in this issue ... 10038. Second class postage paid at New York, N.Y. Subscription $9.00 per year; two years, $17.50; three years, $25.00; outside of the , $10.00 p(•r year. The Graduate's Obligation, based on an address Single copy, $1.25 by Avrohom Pam ...... 3 Printed in the U.S.A. of Tomorrow, Rabbi Zev Shostak ..... 5 RABBI N1ssoN WoLPIN The -Talmid Relationship, Menachem Z. Greenfield 8 Editor The Thirty Year Trip, Wolf Karfiol ...... 11 Editorial Board A Letter from Federation of Jewish Philanthropies ... .13 DR ERNST L. BooENHfJMER Chairman ... and a Response ...... 14 RABBI NA THAN ButMAN Shoot Me By the Wall, Hanoch Teller .17 RABB! JOSEPH EUAS JosErH FRIEDENSON The Brisker Legacy, Rabbi Chaim Leib Balgley .20 RABB! MosttE SttERER Plus Ca Change, Elisha Horowitz ...... 25

THE JEWISH OBSERVER does not Postscript: Proselytizing the Unchurched? .27 assume responsibility for the Kashrus of any product or ser­ letters to the Editor . . . . .29 vice advertised in its pages. Index to Articles, Vol. XIII ...... 33 Photo credits from previous issue: Photograph credits: p.3-K. Jewell; p.11-Zelman Studios;p. 11-14-Agudeth Israel of America; p, 15-Train&r Studios; Copyright 1979 p.16-Arnold Cohen; p.25-0reater Conference for Soviet Jewery; p.37-Shlomo Freidman; p.39-Mo!ahe Z. Weisberg. JUNE, 1979 VOL. XIV, NO. 1 Photographs page 9, courtesy Rabbi Eli Teitelbaum

As we go to press, we record with shock and deep sorrow the untimely passing of Rabbi ~:ii:i? p"tll i:i1 on 7 Tammuz, July 1. He inspired thousands of talmidim of Vodaath, which he served as a tor many years, with his brilliance of mind, his encyclopedic knowledge of Toras Nigla and Nistor, his warmth of personality and self-effacing modesty. His deep concern for Kial Yisroel expressed itself in his association with Agudath Israel of America from its founding days over a half century ago until the time of his passing, when he was a prominent national leader of the movement; an active member of the International Board of Governors of Chinuch Atzmai-Torah Schools for Israel, and its American section, which he served as Treasurer; and his leadership among the menahalim of the American Yeshivos Gedolos. Rabbi Schorr-a ta/mid of Gedolei Yisroel, himself a recognized B'Yisroel-left behind bereft talmidim, among them outstanding leaders in the Torah community.

,,.,J ,,~? "i1' May his memory be a blessing. Rabbi Avrohom Pam

The Yeshiva Graduate's Obligation

The maximal goals of the yeshiva are well known: the opening of the limitless vistas of Torah to its students and imbuing them with the ambition to become Gedolei Ha­ Torah. Not all students succeed in realizing the yeshiva's highest goals; the yeshiva thus also has other lesser expec­ tations for its students-goals that are more universally attainable. First among them is that all who pass through the portals of the yeshiva always reflect Torah values in their personal lives. The following article, based on an address by RABBI AVROHOM PAM N"'D'?1V to an alumni gathering of Mesivta Torah Vodaath, delineates two aspects of this overriding goal. This essay was prepared for publication by RABBI YONAH BLUMENFRUCHT and MATIS BLUM.

TWO PRINCIPLE AIMS of the yeshiva are: a) to produce talmidim of outstanding personal character and in­ I. Kiddush Hashem tegrity, who will reflect in their personal lives the ethics The Sefer Yereim states that although the mitzva of of the Torah which they learned in the yeshiva; and Kiddush Hashem is incumbent on every , there is a b)to imbue its talmidim with the spirit of dedication to very special obligation on lomdei Torah (Torah scho­ the service of Kial Yisroel, and to encourage them to lars) to be cognizant of this obligation. He writes: CN1 devote their energies and talents to the advancement of ;; m>11n 1101 iw•~n JI> lt>lY 111.>IV'IV ,,,~ nim i101'i N1n "One Torah. who studies Torah must take care to avoid any manner These objectives were established and pursued by the of repulsive behavior, and refrain from any action that founder of Mesivta Torah Vodaath, Reb Feivel bears any resemblance to it." Mendlowitz 'i"ll, whose entire life was dedicated to Kial The ben Torah is expected to personify the teachings Yisroel, thereby serving as a living inspiration to tal­ of the Torah, thus reflecting the image of the Torah midim and baalei batim (laymen) alike. Let us pause to itself. He can, on the one hand, be a living example of ponder these goals, however briefly, and rethink the the beauty and sanctity of the Torah way of life, lending direction of our own lives in light on these guidelines. honor and glory to , and conveying Kiddush Hashem to and non-Jews alike. The Prophet Yishayahu in his vision of the Children of Israel in the days-to-come, depicts them in these words: "And their Rabbi Pam is a Rosh Yeshiva in Mesivta Torah Vodaath, . children will be distinguished amongst the nations and ' Yonah Blumenfrucht, a musmach of Torah Vodaath in the profes­ their offspring amongst the peoples of the world, and all sional world, and Matis Blum, a Beis student who edits the who behold them will know that they are the blessed weekly Torah Lodaas bulletin, prepared this essay for publication. children of G-d."

The Jewish Observer I May-June, 1979 3 On the other hand, if the ben Torah is not meticulous II. The Sensitivity of the Royal Guard in his personal conduct, and is lacking in integrity, Torah scholars are members of the divine militia, and righteousness, and refinement, he misrepresents Torah, as such they should be in the forefront of the milchemes leading people to think that the Torah approves or con­ Hashem-every battle for sacred causes. This is the dones unethical conduct. He is thereby unwittingly essence of the second objective of yeshiva chinuch. bearing false witness against it, for the Torah is Toras Every yeshiva student should organize his life in the Emes (Torah of truth) and D'rocheha darkei -" Its way that permits him to best serve Kial Yisroel, accord­ ways are pleasant ..." ing to his capacity and the prevailing circumstances. We are witness today to an alarming decline in mora­ There are no exemptions in this battle. lity, both in the individual and in society. The contin­ Shaul Hamelech (King Saul) once called in the uous breakdown of age-old concepts of decency is members of his court and chastised them for dis­ shocking and causes us to wonder: What next? Where loyalty to him. He spoke harshly; "You have all is the world headed? conspired against me by not disclosing to me that There are the cynics and pessimists who say 'tv ilm~ my son is in league with the son of Yishai (in a M'~ l~ C'1Y This is the way of the world. Man's character plot against the Kingdom) and none of you is dis­ is inherently corrupt and immoral; strife, greed, and tressed by this threat to me' (Shmuel I: 22,8). As lust are inevitables. That's the way it always has been, the commentaries explain, Shaul faulted his and that's the way it will always be. We Jews, however, closest associates even if they did not perceive believe that the Torah can mold the individual into a Dovid as a threat to Shaul's rule. They should magnificent personality, instilling within him integrity, have at least shared his anguish. nobility, courtesy and dignity. We are persuaded that By the same yardstick, our loyalty to the Divine King Torah can and will in the days to come create a righ­ can be questioned if we lack concern for kavod Sho­ teous society that will reflect the glory of G-d . mayim; if we are not distressed over the fact that the • But if lomdei Torah are found wanting in their per­ vast majority of our youth is totally ignorant of Torah sonal ethics, they give rise to the belief that Torah does and could not care less; if we are indifferent to continu­ not have the capability of improving mankind and can­ ing distortion of Torah and its misrepresentation-in the not cure the ills of society. !~!~ '11l ~11M~ 11:~ p•r; ,, rM name of Judaism; if we are not disturbed by the fact There can be no greater defamation of Torah than this. that our people is degraded, despised, maligned and abused by the nations of the world, and yet the philo­ The Vital Obligation sophy of "Let us be like all the nations" dominates the There is a fascinating psak halacha in Yam Shel policies of the political leaders who presume to guide Shlomo (Babba Kamma 38a), in reference to misrepre­ the destiny of the people of Israel. sentation of Torah. The relates that the Roman The current state of affairs in Jewish life should suffi­ government once dispatched two officials to the sages ciently touch every yeshiva alumnus to impel him to orient his life to the service of Kial Yisroel and to make of Israel to make a comprehensive study of the Torah and to report their findings to the government. Upon his contribution to kavod Shomayim in one form or completion of their study, they told the sages: "We another. have delved into your Torah and have concluded that it A well-known Rosh Yeshiva once visited a I is indeed a Taras £mes-except for one halacha, which wealthy businessman-a former yeshiva student­ seems to us to discriminate against non-Jews. However, in his office to solicit a sizable donation for the yeshiva. It was during business hours, and the we will not report it to the government." t man claimed that giving such a sum would require I The Yam Shel Shlomo raises the question: Why did the Chachomim risk the safety of Kial Yisroel by teach­ a trip to the bank, and he was much too busy for ing this halacha as it is to the Roman agents? Could that. Whereupon the Rosh Yeshiva said to him: they not have altered this one halacha for their own "Do you think that you were sent down from protection, to avoid resentment and the likely conse­ Heaven to this world just to sell gatkes (under­ quences of repression and persecution? He answers: wear)? You were sent here to do something for the Ribono Shel Olam, His Torah, and His People." '''Y 1?JJ"Y :i"m nJ::io cip1'::i 'JN :iiin ,,::i, nilw? iioNtv 7x::i~ From here we may derive that it is forbidden to falsify THESE OBJECTIVES of the yeshiva chinuch assume added Torah even at the risk of danger to Kial Yisroel; one is significance as we hope, pray, and yearn for the Ge'ula obligated to sacrifice his life rather than misrepresent a Sheleima, soon in our day. The vision of Ge'ula din of the Torah. Sheleima entails the restoration of Kial Yisroel to its In as much as Torah scholars are expected to reflect pristine dignity and its distinction as a Kingdom of the teachings of Torah in their personal conduct, and­ Priests, a Holy Nation; the realization of the prophecy indeed-in the eyes of the public they do represent the "And all Your sons will be learned of G-d"; the trans­ Torah way of life, the responsibility they carry is a formation of the into The Holy Land, grave one. The extent of this obligation, as spelled out permeated with the Shechina-the Divine Presence, and by the Yam Shel Shlomo, is awesome in its implications. radiating the glory of G-d. "'

The Jewish Observer I May-June, 1979 Rabbi Zev Shostak

The Yeshiva of Tomorrow Will Yeshiva Education Become Depersonalized in the Computer Age?

It is the day after tomorrow. As Ru vi enters the appropriate answer on the keyboard, the screen lights Bais Hamedrash of his yeshiva high school, the alarm up: "Very good-yeyasher -proceed to the next on his digital watch tells him that it's 9 a.m. and he's question." on time: His (learning partner) had just And so it goes until 10:05 a.m. when his chavrusa, called him on his car phone to tell him that he would Eli, finally arrives. After an hour of communicating be delayed for an hour. What should I do until then? with the machine, Ruvi really looks forward to the he thinks. How about reviewing yesterday's "" fresh, original ideas and often unpredictable tangents (lesson) which introduced the new "sugya" (topic in that he and his chavrusa explore together-responses Talmud) Rebbe had just begun? So he walks over to and solutions for which the computer was not his table in the brightly-lit study hall and sits down, programmed. activating his spot on the Mashgiach's attendance At 11:00 a.m., the boys in Ruvi's class file into screen. Dominating his table is a large console with a their classroom, and the shiur begins. Rabbi Goldberg keyboard of vari-colored buttons and an upright opens the Cernota, and one of the boys presses a screen-a mini computer terminal and videotape button which activates a video-tape camera machine combination. permanently perched on a shelf at the back corner of First, our budding talmid chacham presses a button the room. This camera peers down on the lecture in to activate the video-tape pictures of yesterday's much the same way closed-circuit TV cameras focus shiur. His rebbe is shown methodically analyzing the on the aisles of super-markets to spot unwary Gemora (Talmud) and delving into shoplifters. Later, as Yaakov asks a question from the (medieval commentaries). Then, flicking the switch on back of the room, a special sound sensor located in the his console, Ruvi moves the tape to the part of the middle of the ceiling automatically directs the camera shiur that he finds most difficult to understand: the to focus on the speaker. I intricate Tosaphos that challenge 's After the shiur, most of the students leave, with interpretation of the text. After his rebbe explained only a few lingering to clarify difficult points. Ruvi the Tosaphos "once again," Ruvi feels that he really joins others in a small room directly adjacent to the l understands the shiur. Pleased with himself, Ruvi shiur room, where a tape-copying machine is decides that it is time for him to review the sugya spinning out copies from a master tape of the shiur in "inside.'' More button-pressing on the keyboard, a a matter of seconds. A number of bachurim avail code is fed into the computer, and almost themselves of this very inexpensive service, so they instantaneously bright green letters appear on the can review the shiur at their leisure. same screen that had displayed the video-tape. Now, Lunchtime: Ruvi picks up his lunch in the school with finger tracing the words in his open Gemora on cafeteria, at a terminal of a freezer-to-microwave the table, he refers periodically to the screen for a oven-to-dispenser conveyor system-all according to step-by-step analysis of the sugya in a sequential Ruvi's punched-out-menu card submitted minutes question format. Whenever Ruvi taps out the before. The freezer is supplied by a Kosher caterer under contract with the Board of Education. The 45 minute break is over and Ruvi joins his Rabbi Zev Schostak is the principal of the Mid-Island School of the colleagues for their next classes-, Nach, and Hebrew of Nassau County in Bethpage, Long Island. He is the editor of Hamenahel, the professional journal of Torah Umesorah, . The Chumash class is typical of the and is also the author of a Guide to the Jewish Family Laws, and a classes that follow: While the students still use popular new Haggada, Why is This Night Different? seforim, a large screen replaces the traditional

The Jewish Observer I May-June, 1979 blackboard at the front of the room. The teacher to subscribe to a cable-TV general studies program. reaches for the computer terminal on his desk and The students are able to participate in every required presses the code for the chapter they are studying; the course in the traditional high school curriculum, plus relevent Pesukim (verses) suddenly illuminate the some exciting electives (e.g. simulating a national screen. When the class studies a paragraph in Rashi election, in a government class, or analyzing the and other meforshim (commentators), the screen pollution level of a lake, for biology)-all taught by displays the sources in Chazal as well as the best instructors in the district. Whenever the cross-references in Tanach. When the students student wishes to question a teacher, he presses a encounter an obscure word or expression, the right button and addresses him.' computer code quickly reveals every known usage of Some "progressive" yeshiva high schools in larger the word-concordance style-on the screen ... cities banded together to subsidize their own cable TV Afterwards, in the Hebrew language "labs," the broadcasts in secular subjects, featuring instructors students, wearing earphones and speaking into the who were yerei Shomayim and able to present the computer microphone, conduct dialogues in Hebrew general studies from a Torah perspective. with a recorded sound track. Once or twice a week, the students visit a district Later in the afternoon, the students daven testing center where they take computerized tests in together (with a live shaliach tzibur, of course), and their subjects, as well as lab courses in chemistry, then go home "to take" their general studies subjects. physics, and computer technology. The students of this yeshiva high school are required * * *

Tomorrow-Torah Technology or Fiction? benefit, as long as man remembers that he is the master of the machine and will never permit it to de-humanize Will all this technological pizzazz really come to him. Even though society at large continues to replace yeshiva education, or will it remain in the realm of the human functions with machines, Torah Jews must be hypothetical could-be? To be sure, this technology is ever-sensitive to the fact that there can never be a sub­ already developed and will be readily available to the stitute for man or for his intrinsic worth as a tzelem general public in the near future. In fact, many of the Elokim, molded in the image of his Maker. Primarily, systems described in our futuristic scenario, such as the we have an ethical responsibility to be ever sensitive to mini computers, video-tape units, and participatory value man over machine. cable TV, are already operational. Indeed, one Israeli To be sure, cassette recordings of lectures are a great University has already programmed rabbinic boon to people who for any number of reasons are of the last 1500 years into its computers. The price for unable to attend their presentation in person. But there all this sophisticated hardware will probably be very is also a tendency among some to choose to "stay inexpensive, if consumer costs in this field continue to home" and rely on subsequent recordings rather than decline as they have until now. In some respects the take the trouble to attend a lecture in person. Aside Yeshiva world has kept pace with technology and from the loss in terms of personal participation in the reaped its rewards. Witness the fact that ten years ago it public assembly or class, there is also an implied down­ was uncommon to tape Torah shiurim; today, as shiu­ grading in the value of the lecturer as a person. rim begin in across the country, cassette recorders are dutifully flicked on to preserve these pre­ True, listening to a taped session with a Rosh Yeshiva sentations for posterity. There are already a number of is certainly a tribute to the man; he is not being replaced entrepreneurs who produce Torah tapes on a wide by a machine. But in no way does it approach the kavod variety of topics for commercial purposes. Today some ha Torah and recognition that is expressed when sitting Hebrew day schools use video taping to record model in at the session, live. lessons for student teaching and teacher in-service By the same token, no one would dispute the value of training. the Xerox machine for duplicating rare manuscripts or But the question that actually concerns us is whether pages from a one-of-a-kind source. But when the stu­ the yeshiva world should accept all the marvels of tech­ dent comes to permit his mind to wander because "Joe's nology and harness them to its needs, or should it reject many of them as incompatible with its traditional edu­ 1. Warner Cable Corporation, a based company, has cational philosophy and time-tested methodology? recently developed such a "participatory TV" system which is already operational in Columbus, Ohio, and enables its subscribers to Torah and Technology-Man vs. Machine voice their opinions in local political debates, conduct garage sales, and bid for objets d'art in charity auctions-all for the low base fee of Technology is a Divine gift presented to man for his $10.95 a month.

The Jewish Observer I May-June, 1979 taking notes, and his are better than mine, anyway-and students be seated so as to enable each one to see and Xerox is only 7¢ a sheet,"-how much personal contact hear his teacher, in keeping with Isaiah (30:20): "And is lost because of over-reliance on sophisticated dupli­ your eyes shall behold your teachers." This is not cating processt merely a plan to enable students to see and hear the lesson better; nor is it a design for creating an informal classroom atmosphere (as opposed to the straight and More Than a Source of Information rigid rows of seats found in most classrooms until this very day). Rather, this arrangement is meant to enable Substituting machines for the Rosh Yeshiva and every student to see the teacher and take part in the chavrusa is totally incongruous with our educational soul-stirring experience of reflected in the philosophy which demands both intense involvement Rebbe' s countenance when he is teaching.' and personal introduction in Torah learning. In recent Our describe the status of a man without com­ years, educators have postulated that there are two panionship (chavrusa) as tantamount to death-" either domains in education-the cognitive (or intellectual) chavrusa or missusa (death)," they proclaim (Taanis and the affective (or emotional). It would appear that 23a). A prime aspect of both the chavrusa and rebbe­ while secular education is chiefly concerned with the talmid relationship that cannot be simulated by a cognitive domain, Torah chinuch is equally concerned machine is the constant interaction between the two. with both domains-and for good reason: Secular edu­ With the rebbe, of course, the astute student is able to cation is geared to communicating knowledge, but not absorb his mentor's thought process through shimush necessarily to influence the student's way of life. talmid chacham. Of even greater importance, the However, Torah education was Divinely designed for student who serves his teacher emulates his conduct, "behavior modification" in every sense of the term-to absorbs his values, and ultimately is molded into a true mold true bnei-Torah, committed to learning Torah and hen-Torah. For, as we stated, the rebbe's role is not observing mitzvos with total dedication. In order to merely to communicate information to others, but in a achieve these dual educational objectives, Torah learn­ greater sense, his purpose is to be involved in the for­ ing demands a total involvement in the learning pro­ mation of good character and midas of his charges. cess, of "toiling in Torah", or immersing one's self, (More on this theme in the article that follows.) And, as heart and soul, into its study. Indeed, when a Jew the Gemora says, "! have learned much from my recites the blessings on the Torah each morning, he teachers, more from my companions ..." (Makos lOa). declares that G-d "has commanded us to engage in the study of Torah." This blessing is an affirmation of our belief that Torah learning is not merely another aca­ Torah Technicians of Tomorrow demic subject we are compelled to study; it is our part­ In the years ahead, we may well be inhabiting a brave time vocation and full-time vocation. It is our very new world in the yeshiva movement. Young bnei Torah existence! may be trained technicians, programming entire Torah While Ruvi (in the opening narrative) was intellec­ and Talmudic works into computers. Libraries may tually challenged during his hour-long chazora with store video-tapes of shiurim on a variety of topics and the computer, it is at best only a vicarious encounter microfilms of original manuscripts (kisvei ) of our with the rebbe. And a vicarious experience-no matter great rabbis throughout the ages. Cable TV broadcast how good-can never be the equal of the in-depth intel­ time may be purchased by a consortium of yeshivos to lectual and emotional exchange of the rebbe-talmid and produce educational programming to meet their needs, . And at worst, even a taped chazora can sparing yeshiva high schools the need to maintain become a humdrum mechanical experience, wherein a general studies divisions; all their students would view lackadaisical student tends to sink into a "Play-it-again­ their secular subjects over cable TV as part of their sub­ Sam" syndrome. scription fee. 3 To the Jew, a rebbe is a spiritual father and the These are only a few of tomorrow's great opportuni­ chavrusa a spiritual brother. To deny these relation­ ties and of the many possibilities which lie ahead, ships is to deny the very purpose of Torah study. limited only by our imaginations. But, the crucial link Indeed, nothing can replace the rebbe-talmid relation­ in our chain of tradition-the human element in trans­ ship, where the rebbe reaches the heart as he teaches the mission of Torah and studying it-can never and shall mind. There can be no substitute for the intellectual never be replaced t t..T. give-and-take and emotional support of a chavrusa, where two young students navigate the sea of Talmud, charting a course together. 2. See Aruch Hashulchan, Yoreh De' ah 246:23. Also Eiruvin 136. 3. The great savings accrued from removing general studies .Illustrations abound in Chazal to support the need departments from the aegis of yeshivos could be applied at long last to for these indispensable human relationships. For upgrading the salaries of Judaic faculty and for capital investment to example, the Talmud (in Kerisos 6a) specifies that the purchase computer hardware/software and the like.

The Jewish Observer I May-June, 1979 Menachem Z. Greenfield

The Rebbe-Talmid Relationship

The talmid-and-rebbe relationship has been a crucial factor in our tradition since the giving of the Torah. Unfortunately, this bond appears to be in danger of dissolving today. This article discusses the nature of the ideal and the problems it now faces.

The Basic Link Challenging the Link The hallowed rebbe-talmid relationship, a basic link Denial of this principle seems to underlie Korach' s in our tradition from the time of Moshe Rabbeinu, dispute with Moshe Rabbeinu and Aharon HaKohein, seems to be eroding. To restore it to its proper level, we when he argued: "The entire congregation is holy." As should attempt to analyze it: to see what it consists of Rashi explains, he contended that the entire people had and why it is of such importance. heard the first two of the Ten Commandments from the Rashi, in explaining the verse, "And these are the mouth of G-d and should therefore not be considered ordinances that you should set before them" (Shemos inferior to Moshe and Aharon. Korach did not realize, XX!,!) comments: however, that having spent forty days and nights atop "G-d said to Moshe: Do not say 'I shall teach them Mount Sinai learning the entire Torah with all its the chapter or the law two or three times, until it will be explanations directly from G-d, only Moshe Rabbeinu fluent in their mouths, as it is worded; but I shall not was in a position to be a true teacher. Apparently, trouble myself to make them understand the reasons of Korach had assumed that Torah is no different from any the thing and its explanation.' ... It is stated, Which other area of knowledge, and can be completely you shall set before them-like a table that is set and grasped with human comprehension. He had failed to t prepared for eating before a person." understand that just as Torah itself was given to Israel, Apparently it would have been insufficient for so too was the means for understanding it-that is, the Moshe Rabbeinu to teach the halachos to the people process of transmitting G-d's teachings from one gene­ under the assumption that they would understand their ration to the next, from rebbe to talmid . ... Moshe had underlying basis on their own. Rather, it was incum­ absorbed fact, system of thinking, and methodology bent upon him to teach the explanation along with the from his Teacher, kaveyachol (so to speak)-then halacha. passed all of these on to the Elders, who in turn, This same concept can be found in the introduction assumed his position as teacher when they taught all to the Rambam's Mishne Torah: "All the Mitzvos that this to others. were given to Moshe on Sinai were given with their Now that the Talmud and its commentaries have explanation, which Moshe, in turn, taught to Yehoshua been written down and are accessible to all, some have who passed it on to the elders." Every aspect of these suggested that the rebbe's role has become superfluous. teachings is meant to continue in an unbroken chain There are, however, facets of the rebbe-talmid relation­ from rebbe to talmid, throughout the generations. ship that transcend book learning. This is strongly emphasized by Rabbi Reuven Grozovsky 7"~1 in his introduction to the third volume of Birkas Shmuel, his father-in-law, Rabbi '"~l's sefer. Menachem Greenfield, a talmid of yeshivas in America artd fsrael, is Reb Reuven contends that the ideal rebbe-talmid rela­ currently a Gemora rebbe in Yeshiva Bais Yehuda of Detroit and a tionship was exemplified by Reb Boruch Ber's complete member of its Beis Medrash-Kolel. He expresses a debt of gratitude dedication to his rebbe, Rabbi 7"~1. to Rosh Yeshiva, Rabbi Leib Bakst N:"o~7w who discussed the topic of Reb Boruch Ber maintains that this was predicated the article in countless shmuessen, for the ideas and insights in this upon the concept that not only the halacha, but the article. methods of comprehending it, were given to Moshe on

' The Jewi~h Ob$erver / Miiy-June, 1979

Sinai, and passes on from generation to generation. is usually a period set aside for night-time Talmud Therefore, one must learn from his rebbe not only study, which the rebbe may or may not attend. halacha, but also how to pose a question and offer an In such situations, the rebbe has little more oppor­ answer. The proper methods of study are as much a tunity to affect changes in his students than does a part of the Masoratic tradition as is the halacha itself. secular teacher. The assembly line from shiur to lunch This is something very few individuals are able to to chazora, to one class and then the next, is not condu­ obtain through only studying the written texts. cive to building a strong relationship between the rebbe The need for a rebbe is not something that diminishes and ta/mid; and if such a relationship is not fostered in with time. Long after Reb Boruch Ber had become a the formative high school years, it is unlikely that the famous Rosh Ha Yeshiva in his own right, he still con­ student will ever be motivated to establish such a bond sulted Reb Chaim for approval of his chiddushim (new in later years, when there is more time and opportunity. interpretations). Overcoming Depersonalization Beyond Methodology in the High School Another aspect of the rebbe' s influence on his stu­ This depersonalization of the rebbe-talmid relation­ dents is the example he sets for them. Indeed, just as a ship is overcome when the high school rebbe refuses to rebbe views his disciples as his own children limit himself to the job of a teacher, and extends his ("Bonecho-eilu hatalmidim"), so too do many students responsibilities far and beyond the realm of the class­ look upon their rebbe as a second father. And just as a room. In some instances, his teaching activities might son invariably emulates his father, even walking and constitute only a minor part of his total relationship talking like him, so too do many students imitate their with the student, for he must also function as a psycho­ rebbe. As a result of the close scrutiny his every gesture logist and social worker, all the while setting a living undergoes, a rebbe can shape his students' attitude and example for his students to emulate. To be sure, formal very character for the rest of their lives. This operates teacher training has its place, but anyone who stands on the unconscious level, as well. A rebbe's involve­ out in the memory of his students as an outstanding ment in study and his dedication to his mission has a teacher usually does so because of his characteristics as contagious effect on the students, inspiring them to an outstanding human being. This often calls for a good want to accept all that he has to offer. measure of mesiras nefesh (self-sacrifice), for the con­ When I arrived at the Mirrer Yeshiva in Jerusa­ scientious rebbe rarely finds that the morning shiur lem and observed the Rosh Hayeshiva, Rabbi affords him adequate contact with his students. This is Chaim Shmulevitz 7"11, his total immersion in best realized in after-hours sessions with the students, Torah and his highly disciplined midos, it had a when the rebbe can express interest in all aspects of most profound effect on me. Like all who came in their lives. Participating in student Melave Malkas or contact with him, I resolved then and there to inviting individual boys over for a Shabbos meal can go become more dedicated to my Torah studies and a long way in building a strong personal bond. Even to endeavor to improve my own midos . .. Such is discussing a student's secular studies or hobbies with the power of a rebbe. him could have a salutary effect in helping him gain a A talmid once complained to his rebbe who had more mature outlook on life and a proper integration of sent him to Bais Med rash Govoha to study that he the secular and religious realms. found it difficult to understand Rabbi Aharon While one tends to remember the outstanding rebbe Kotler's shiurim. "Continue going," he was for "what he did for me," in the back of the mind one advised. "And if you still don't understand him, remembers how he was constantly aware of the look at his face. It will also be worth it." uniqueness of each of the other students. Some students These few lines are hardly a description of this crucial are highly motivated and will learn from anyone. aspect of the rebbe-talmid relationship, let alone a full Others seem never to become motivated, no matter how discussion of it. Let these comments at least serve to in­ much attention is afforded them; this type of fellow dicate its importance in the scheme of things, leaving a must surely be treated very carefully and with an abun­ fuller development of this theme for another occasion. dance of patience. However, the majority of students fall somewhere in between these two extremes. Some­ Behind the Erosion times a kind word or a Httle extra-curricular effort on the part of the rebbe is all it takes to propel the student The rebbe-talmid relationship is suffering an erosion onto great heights.-The results? "Whoever preserves a today, and in view of the structure of the typical single soul of Israel is considered as though he had pre­ yeshiva high school it is not difficult to understand served a complete world" ( 37a). why. True, the morning and early afternoon are devoted to Talmudic studies, with the rebbe conducting the shiur. But then the secular studies teachers take * * * over and the student shuttles from class to class. There As a summary of sorts, I am reminded of an explana-

10 The ]rwish Observer I May-June, 1979 tion l had heard from Rabbi Bakst on the statement in created for one purpose only-to accomplish the mis­ the Gemora: "Only if the teacher is like a malach (an sion entrusted to him by G-d. He is expected to devote angel of the Lord of Hosts), should they seek Torah his entire existence to that endeavor- no 9 to 5 "office from him ..." (Chagiga lSb). Which attribute of a hours," but totally occupied by this one obligation. The malach could one expect to find in a rebbe? After all, we rebbe who approximates a malach in this way is the know very little about malachim, and that which we do rebbe one should seek. Fortunate, indeed, is the young know would seem next to impossible to emulate. man who finds him. "T. One aspect, however, is accessible: a malach was

Wolf Karfiol

The Thirty Year Trip

details of a deal. Thinking it would just take a short IT WAS almost sunset and I was time, I prepared neither mind nor body for eight finding my way through some familiar Lower East hours of non-stop business talk. My hosts did not Side streets. It had been a long difficult day: eight seem to be in any rush. Sometimes it struck me as hours of business negotiations with representatives of though they were playing a game-either making a Far Eastern manufacturer. The meeting on Division themselves incomprehensible or making me feel as Street had lasted beyond my expectations, and it had though they did not understand me. After the first just about dulled my senses. two hours of relentless talk about prices, shipping Division Street, that landmark, schedules, and deposits, my head began to spin. The famous for so many years as a fashion center still smoke from their cigarettes and pipes irritated my conjures up great bargains in the minds of old timers throat, and I would have welcomed a drink of soda, ... I bought my Bar suit on that famous but when my hosts had brought in a variety of wines street-or was it around the corner, where the bargains and fortune cookies, I had refused: "I don't drink in men's clothing were better? alcoholic beverages.," "My diet doesn't allow for Today the grand old stores and little shops with the sugar," and some other excuses. It seemed that asking Jewish names are gone. Even some of the side streets for a simple glass of water would be out of place and no longer exist. The newly built Confucius Towers, could even offend my hosts. I wasn't about to lose this over 30 stories high, stands there instead. This deal over such a minor thing. building was constructed with a new concept, The hours had dragged on until the final signature combining a residential, educational and commercial and handshakes. I was still in a daze when I left complex all in one. For me it was also a new through the front door of the building. Remembering experience. a Kosher Dairy restaurant just on the other side of Allan Street, I quickly headed in that direction. I 'VE HAD many business meetings in my years in business, but I never did any buying from I WAS JUST short of my destination the Far East. A circular I had received in the mail from when a voice called out: "Reb Yid, a tzenter far a a Far East Trading Company caught my interest and far Mincha, please come in!" There was such after several inquiries we set up a meeting at the a plaintive note in the voice that although I was in no company office in Confucius Towers to work out the mood to stop to daven just then, I could not turn down the man's appeal. Inside the store-front shul, it took me a minute to Wolf Karifiol, a graduate of Mesivta Torah Vodaath, has a business in adjust my eyes to the scant light cast from the few the shadows of Confucius Towers, and is active in communal affairs. uncovered bulbs hanging from the ceiling. I glanced "Rabbi Chaim Gold" in this story is modeled after Rabbi Eliyahu around the room to see nine elderly men waiting for Moshe Shisgal, 7":t1, who had been a Rosh Yeshiva in Torah Vodaath. me, the tenth man. In my fleeting look I caught a

The Jewish Observer/ May-June, 1979 11 glimpse of the face of the man who was standing up tefilla; I sighed with relief. front, near the Mizrach waU. When he saw me The repetition of the Shemoneh Esrei did not take washing my hands, he turned his face to the wall and too long, and soon the after Aleinu was being started davening. The face had looked very familiar, said. l reached for my coat and was about to leave. but so do all the bearded faces of the elderly men that Several others had arrived late and my crucial role as I encounter. I saw plenty of old Jews in the West the tenth man was no longer relevant. Bronx where I grew up. But for the past 30 years I I was about three steps from the door, and I came have lived on the North Shore of Long Island, and I face-to-face with the . "Sholom Aleichem, and don't see too many old bearded Jews there. Yasher Koach for not passing up our request for a As I said "Ashrei" I looked around once more ... it tenth man. It is pretty hard to find someone who is all seemed familiar-the long tables up front, the willing to stop from his work to come and join us," he high-backed wooden benches-just like the old shul said in a voice that somehow sounded familiar. on 138th Street and Concourse, where we davened Then, I examined his features-familiar, yet when I was a kid. But the minyan was davening and different. Then it came to me. "Reb Chaim Gold!" I my study of the place was cut short. The face of the called out. My rebbe in first year mesivta! old man up front, however, had made a mark that His face suddenly lit up with his old familiar smile, lasted. "Yes, I am Reb Chaim. And who are you, may I ask?" I started to explain, but before I brought him IT DID not take me long to finish the up-to-date, our conversation was quickly broken off. "Shemoneh Esrei"-it never does. I know it by heart, Reb Chaim gave a daily shiur and the people were all and I have been saying it daily for the past forty seated at the table, awaiting him. . years, so it really presents no challenge to speak of. I glanced at my watch. It had stopped and so did While waiting for the rest of the minyan to finish, I my hunger pains. To hear a shiur from Reb Chaim again looked around the room, but this time slowly again was a chance of a lifetime. When I had entered and with thought. As my glance focused at the front his class as a youngster of thirteen, I was still a kid, of the room it stopped. both in learning level and in conduct. By the time I There he stood, the bearded elderly man, holding had left his shiur a year later, I had grown into a the open in front of his face, his mouth full-fledged yeshiva bachur and was a young man. carefully sounding each word as his body swayed in a (I'm sure you understand what I mean. You must constant forward-backward motion. Somehow he have had such a rebbe in your school as well-the one seemed so familiar to me. For a while I was entranced who really put you on your feet, so to speak). by the old man davening as if this were the first time, but my mind started to wander. When would we SETTLED down on the bench, next finish? I'd love to to that restaurant! ... I was just I to a Gemora and a glass of steaming tea. The glass, of a block away and this had to happen. I was stuck, course, from a burned-out Yahrtzeit lamp. The other like it or not. men passed me a few egg kichel, and I was one of the My watch didn't stop, and neither did my hunger rest of the minyan at the table. pains, which were very real by now. But time in this Oh, the satisfaction and the memories! It was as if I Shtiebel did stop-there was not even a clock on the were 14 years old again, sitting with my Gemora in wall. Time was of no essence. These people davened class in the Mesivta. for the now, for this specific moment. There was no Reb Chaim was the same. Each word was counted rush to get it over-and-done with. Why I could have each laden with its own special meaning. Each change finished all three daily tefillos-and I usually do-in of tone was an explanation in itself. His delivery wa5 the time it took this minyan to reach the start of just as it had been back then-in a slow, deliberate Chazoras Hatefillah! tone of voice. His was the voice of authority-no one Yes. Time was standing still, here in the midst of had to be told that Reb Chaim was a genuine Talmid the changing, expanding Lower East Side. The walls, Chacham and Gadol B'Torah. the benches, and everything else about this shul was The shiur did not last very long and we were soon at a standstill, just like the mispallelim in their tefillah. davening Maariv. I had last seen the likes of it thirty years ago in the Reb Chaim davened in his usual manner, Bronx, and here it was again. transporting me to an older time and place. He How can I compare this store-front to what I am pronounced each word slowly, meaningfully. Without accustomed to today? Why, just one month's electric reading lips, one could still recognize exactly where he bill in our Jewish Center must be more than the entire was up to. Even the slow swaying of his body was full yearly expenses of this shul! of meaning ... If you could see it you would understand what I mean-or maybe you do, anyway. F!NALLY the man up front, who I At the end of the davening, we bid each other had in the meantime learned was the rav, finished his farewell and I promised that I would come in again

The Jewish Observer I May-June, 1979 next time I was in the neighborhood. Another minute, very same fashion during tefilla. He always held the and I was out on the street and finally on my way. Siddur in his hand. There was no such thing as saying words by heart. Each word was counted, each tefilla had its time and place, and received its deserved BEFORE entering the subway attention. station, I looked back once more. It was already dark, and the suites in Confucius Towers were lit up. They cast their glow over the entire area. The names on the THE NEXT morning I got up a little stores all sported Oriental lettering alongside the earlier than previously. I was in shul before the rest of English. In the place of the small dress and clothing the minyan. I took my Siddur in my hands, and stood stores, there were new stores featuring Oriental myself off to a side. I stood the entire davening, products. Siddur in hand, reading each and every word, slowly, Change had come to the area, and a new spirit had clearly, distinctly. come to this corner of old New York. Yes, I was late for work that day, and it has been In that little store-front shul, however, time had taking me longer to daven the other tefillos as well. gone unnoticed. Reb Chaim was still there. Over 30 Reb Chaim was still teaching, educating, and years ago, in the Bais Medrash, he had stood in the inspiring students. !.."i'.

A Letter From Federation of Jewish Philanthropies of New York and a Response

April 16, 1979 Federation Fund for Jewish Educa­ and we are all familiar with occa­ The Editor tion will recommend policy to the sions when the community has had to go begging to support a widow The Jewish Observer Board of Trustees of UJA and and family of a teacher or principal 5 Beekman Street Federation for the use of these New York, NY 10038 funds. The committee consists of who has died suddenly. This Fund Mr. Gruss himself, the philanthro­ will encourage all schools to partici­ pist who gave this movement such pate in Social Security and provide Dear Rabbi Wolpin: great impetus; members of the for­ incentives for a basic plan of life I was very interested in reading mer Program Development Fund insurance, major medical and pen­ your thoughtful piece in the Committee, a predecessor direct aid sion. January issue of the Jewish Obser­ program for ; and 3. Another major portion of the ver, concerning the Federation of representatives of Federation and Fund will be in direct aid in blocks Jewish Philanthropies of New York, UJA. There is a broad spectrum of to day schools and supplementary its attitude toward yeshiva educa­ belief in this committee and the schools which qualify by virtue of tion and the new Federation Fund orthodox are particularly well rep­ minimum size, willingness to pro­ for Jewish Education. Your article resented, although they are essen­ vide audited books, and other non­ noted the growing interest in Jewish tially people who would be ideological criteria. As to who will education by Federation and raised described by the Jewish Observer as decide how teachers are to be quali­ some apprehensions that it had fied, a question raised in the Jewish about how these funds would be modern or neo-orthodox. Observer article, each school is used. It is not the intention of this 2. One major segment of the funds will be used to develop Edu­ asked simply to indicate how it communication to debate the merits cation Welfare Benefits for the full­ qualifies teachers in accordance of the various plans for the use of time teachers in yeshivos, day with whatever standard or qualify­ these funds. Given the interest in schools and supplementary schools, ing body it purports to believe in. Jewish education by the readers of who are not otherwise covered by The net result of all of these stan­ the Jewish Observer, we seek only other employment nor through the dards will probably result in larger to describe how it now appears that employment of their spouses. and more meaningful grants to this $3 million per year will in fact fewer schools than under the be used: Almost one-third of the full-time teachers in Jewish education are not smaller Program Development 1. A policy committee of the even covered by Social Security, Fund.

The Jewish Observer/ May~]une, 1979 4. The final major portion of the for these various demonstration education and the like. $3 million will go towards innova­ programs. The Committee remains flexible tive and demonstration grants­ 5. Finally, some very small and open to other suggestions and attempts to reach children who are amounts will continue to be set ideas for the most effective use of now receiving no Jewish education; aside for some proven programs these funds and interested indivi­ attempts to maintain children in such as a small amount of operating duals or organizations in the Jewish supplementary schools beyond Bar money to the Hebrew Free Loan community are free to contribute and Bat Mitzvah by providing Society which fre·es up a large their suggestions. various incentives for that year of amount of capital for interest-free study, including partial subsidies loans to day schools; the Survival Sincerely, for trips to Israel; encouragement of drive of the Board of Jewish Educa­ DONALD FELDSTEIN 0.5.W. Shabbatonim and other family tion which through advertisements Executive Director experiential learning. Requests for in newspapers and on TV and radio, for Community Services Proposals will be sent to all Jewish followed by a hotline, annually Federation of Jewish educational institutions and will be enrolls up to a thousand children a Philanthropies of New York evaluated according to the criteria year in various forms of Jewish

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~- Reply to Mr. Feldstein: particularly well represented, al­ with sympathy and intelligence. though they are esessentially people Even more disturbing than the Applause and Trepidation who would be described by The glaring lack of yeshiva representa­ Of Jewish Observer as modern or neo­ tion on the committee is the in­ Mr. Fcldstein's letter is welcome, Orthodox." credible fact that no invitation was demonstrating as it does further The description of the commit­ ever extended to Roshei Hayeshiva, evidence that the "Federation Fund tee's Orthodox representation is not menahalim, or administrators, to for Jewish Education" is a major ours, but we will accept Mr. Feld­ meet with the committee. The new departure on the part of the stein' sword for it. It is thus disturb­ Yeshiva position was presented­ New York Federation. The outline ing that a program designed to be of not very ably, it would appear-by sketched by his letter has been substantial assistance to yeshivas the Board of Jewish Education. further fleshed out in communica­ should, by Federation's own admis­ Indeed, several of the letters dis­ tions to yeshivos and other Jewish sion, be devoid of yeshiva represen­ patched to the institutions during schools from the Federation's Board tation. Would a Federation commit­ June, informing them of the final of Jewish Education. The historic tee on aid to hospital medical pro­ form of the various programs, were nature of this undertaking should grams be composed of political signed by lay members of the com­ not be lost on the Jewish com­ science professors? Obviously, a mittee, but composed and dictated munity: Federation's long-standing program formulated to meet a speci­ by an executive of BJE-as is appar­ lack of concern with yeshiva ed uca­ fic need must be formulated with ent from the initials at the foot of tion is beginning to change. When­ the input of people out of that parti­ the page. ever a major organization under­ cular discipline, who are not only According to the statistics used takes a new policy designating experts in the field but also totally by Federation, 55 ,000 students approximately a tenth of its budget involved in its problems. It should attend yeshivos and day schools, far for a particular area of activity, it thus be axiomatic that Federation's more than the total number receiv­ demonstrates an unmistakable committee on Jewish education ing all other forms of Jewish educa­ commitment. For its newly intensi­ include experts from the main­ tion, no matter how limited. Yet the fied interest in Jewish education, stream of New York's yeshiva edu­ people responsible for educating Federation is to be applauded. cation system. The point is not even these children were not even Unfortunately, however, there primarily whether the composition deemed worthy of a hearing. It is are equally unmistakable signs in of the committee is modern -, neo not nearly enough for Federation to Mr. Feldstein's letter, as well as in -, or even non-Orthodox. The declare that "the Orthodox are par­ subsequent events, that the fears point is that neither the committee ticularly well represented" - expressed by JO in January were as currently constituted, nor-even democracy, if not common sense, not without substance. more important-the Board of would dictate that the yeshivos and Absence of Yeshiva Representation Jewish Education bureaucracy day school spokesmen be the ones which defines needs, formulates to decide that. Indeed, the programs It would seem that Point 1 of Mr. options and will execute policy, that emerged from the flawed for­ Feldstein's letter betrays a fatal flaw includes any people sufficiently mulation process demonstrate stark­ that has already led to suspicion and committed to keep yeshiva educa­ ly that the fears we expressed in acrimony. He says: "There is a tion of the highest standard com­ January were better founded than broad spectrum of belief in this mon to New York, who can be the projections of Mr. Feldstein's committee that the Orthodox are counted on to deal with its concerns statement.

" The Jewish Observer I May-]u11e, 1979 Are Yr3hivos Being Served? pared to offer no more than $7.50 bureaucracy is still squandering dol­ A thorough "·' lvsis of the pro­ per elementary student and $15 per lars that at best are too few, on the grams announced by the "Federa­ high school student. And not all sort of programs that make better tion Find for Jewish Education" schools are guaranteed disburse­ press releases than tangible results. would reveal their many short­ ments; even after meeting the re­ Our January article questioned a comings and, in particular, their quirements, they are assured only of Federation announcement that bias away from yeshivos and most "consideration." promised a bold new undertaking to day schools. Such a point-by-point In addition, one might well ques­ help rescue yeshivos and day analysis would be far too lengthy tion why an elementary school of schools. Where is the rescue? In for the purpose of this reply, but 150 children, or a high school of 60 response to the staggering expenses some essential points should be not qualify for grants. and mounting defecits of Torah made. For larger schools-300 students institutions, BJE says "Let them eat The only element of the total for elementary and 150 for secon­ cake!" Even if the frills and puffery program for which a precise dollar dary-there is a program of one­ of romantic programs were truly amount was budgeted is for the time only block grants of up to substantive, they are a luxury that Demonstration Grants Program $25,000. In Federation's words, Torah institutions cannot afford. which, as Mr. Feldstein summarizes "The major purpose of the Block Instead of a new program, BJE's it (Point 4 of his letter) attempts to Grant is to support and improve the specialists are sewing up more of encourage innovative programs for educational quality of a limited the same. reaching out toward children and number of schools and to help those May we ask another question: adults who are uninvolved or little schools with unmet needs. Here, the Why is there no recognition of the involved in Jewish life. A total of eligibility criteria focus on innova­ fact that Torah institutions-which 1,140,000, fully 38% of the Fund tion, reach-out, learning disabi­ have by far the overwhelming budget, is designated for these lities, service to immigrants, and majority of children receiving a items. We do not quarrel with the special new programs and pro­ Jewish education-have been serv­ need to bring Jewish awareness to cedures. ing refugees, have built a new the 57% of all Jews, who have no Again, one questions the enroll­ Chinuch system while Talmud or organizational affilia­ ment requirement for grants for declined, have bred and tion whatsoever. But the com­ innovation or schools for immigrant trained superior and dedicated ponents of this program leave very children. Both "demonstration pro­ teachers? BJE's programs sound as little room for yeshiva participation. jects" and work with immigrant though the yeshivas, not the Tal­ By the way, the figure of "up to children have been exceptionally mud Torahs, were the disaster area 1,000 children" enrolled by the BJE successful in smaller schools. of Jewish education. Instead of hotline has been contested, if not The general picture emerging being applauded and assisted, the disproven-but this is not the place from a study of Federation's pur­ yeshivos are patronized and asked for the details. ported goals and criteria is this: to display their credentials. Of the remaining 62% of the total There is a heavy emphasis on non­ Who Rates the Teacliers? expenditure, some is specifically yeshiva areas of the Chinuch field. In points 2 and 3 of his letter, Mr. designated for "supplementary All segments of Jewish Education Feldstein deals with teacher needs. schools" such as Talmud Torahs are to be rewarded primarily for One can only welcome any benefits and Sunday schools. No total dollar innovation, uniqueness, gim­ offered this group-probably the amount is given, although grants mickry, and special service to most valuable and most severely are described as ranging from important, but limited constituen­ underpaid segment of the Jewish $500-5000. cies. Programs of that sort, as every community. We must, however, Of the section of the Fund for experienced educator knows, fre­ reiterate a note of caution expressed which yeshivos and day schools are quently lend themselves more to the in the January article, for Mr. Feld­ eligible, grants are described as prolific pen of the program-writing stein's letter gives us cause toques­ ranging from $3,500 to $15,000 to wizard than to the efficacious tion: he states that each school will "provide basic support for eligible service of the teacher or student. be asked "simply to indicate how it yeshivos and day schools." To One would have though that by qualifies teachers in accordance qualify, an elementary school must 1979, even BJE would have heard with whatever standard or qualify­ have a minimum enrollment of 200; the general American backlash ing body it purports to believe in." and a high school, a minimum of against expensive, untried, unsuc­ Such a request says both much and 100. There are a series of mostly cessful frills that swamped-and little. It implies that schools will reasonable conditions which must nearly drowned-public education have to submit a teacher accredita­ be met to qualify. Even then, one in the aftermath of the free-spend­ tion standard that will have to can only feel an enormous let-down ing, ill-planned days of the Great satisfy the body that will disburse when a program loudly touted as a Society. America is demanding funds and confer recognition. At savior of Jewish education is pre- basic education whle the BJE the same time, the standard can be

Tht Jewish Observer I May-June, 1979 15 virtually whatever pleases the criterion is the results of their Dampened Optimism school. Of what value can such a educationalefforts-i.e. the skills Since the Federation first an­ standard have-other than to set the and knowledge of the graduates. nounced its intention to come to the precedent that yeshivas must be The State is completely foregoing aid of yeshivas, that first flush of found qualified by BJE in order to the conventional requirements, optimism has been dampened a bit. pass muster? This, indeed, fore­ such as accredited teachers, specifi­ That is unfortunate, for an historic bodes a long term danger, compro­ cations for school plant, and so on. opportunity to benefit the total mising the integrity and indepen­ Should the Federation's BJE have Jewish community is at hand, and it dence of yeshivos. Moreover, it is less trust in the yeshivas it intends would be criminal to funble it. We surely an affront to the most to service; than does New York would be guilty of wrong-headed dynamic and successful institutions State? chauvinism were we to suggest that in American Jewish life, the yeshi­ The only move thus far in the every policy or safeguard suggested vas, that they are asked to justify proposed Educator Welfare Pro­ by Federation is incorrect, or that it their educational standards to a gram is a Federation commitment to has no right to insist on certain body that represents primarily the pay for term life insurance of standards of its own choosing. But declining Sunday school and Tal­ $10-25,000 for each teacher, de­ too much is at stake here in terms of mud Torah elements of Jewish pending on his or her salary. The sorely needed funds and potential, education! Can we imagine that legitimate needs of these unsung to allow it to be frittered away be­ Harvard, Yale, Princeton, and heroes of Jewish education should, cause the entrenched bureaucracy if Columbia would be asked to justify perhaps, have merited a larger slice the BJE insists on declaring that their academic standards to the local of the total budget, but every bit of "papa knows best." Federations that provide relatively assistance is welcome. But-who Federation has gone to great small subsidies to their Hillel pro­ decided that life insurance was more lengths, and undoubtedly has had grams? important than health insurance or to overcome much internal opposi­ Even the New York State Com­ a salary increase? Surely not the tion to institute this program. It mission of Education has come to teachers or the schools. Again, there should take the last necessary step recognize that in granting accredita­ is a patronizing attitude here that is of consulting with and g1vmg tion to the the general studies unwise, undiplomatic, and surely meaningful representation to the department of the yeshivas, the sole not inspiring for confidence. group it purports to help. N. W. SCHECHTER'S \.. The only Orthodox English- weekly in l the world presenting the authentic Torah viewpoint. ·:~:·Ca7/i11£4N·@·' un111 oc1u110111r Jt.oc1 - J1tll tc un IL MIAMI REACH ... 11 • GREAT Kosher Hotel - you'll lore Ill Stimulating! • DIAL w-;;;-r;; FREE brochure • PTi'W'ate Pool an MIAMI and bo0klet o' call Sandy Beach Informative! BU.CH 800-327-8165 •Oceanfront FREE! FLORIDA AREA.CODE Synagogue World-wide coverage of news. (306) 1531-0081 FREE Porking ------C!ip_dnd~11\c------The Jewish Observer ; 5 Beekman Street · New York. N .Y. 10038 I JEii IBUNE 0 One year $9.00 C Two years $17.501 O Three years $25.00 I 97, Send /vfagazine to I Name .. , N. 16. England I Aqdre~s .... I City ...... State.1Zip...... I From Annual subscription: Airmail $35. I Surface mail: $18.50 Name. Address ...... , City State/Zip .. ._ ,. Write no"' for your free sample copy t 0 ______Enclose gift card 0 Bill me: $...... 0 Enclosed: $ ...... I

16 The Jewish Observer/ May-June, 1979 Hanoch Teller

Shoot Me By The Wall

"Harry, shoot me by the Wall." "Can't you see them davening there? I don't think they'd like it." "Harry . ... Take the picture!" "Well, alright-if you insist ... " "Malki, make sure that you get Abdul El Father our Creator, ... that You have mercy upon me Fawgi's glass factory into the picture of Maaras and every Jew . .."Countless Jews uttered such prayers HaMachpelah!" with the most fervent kavana and sincerity. They had make enormous sacrifices to reach those holy places, so insistent was their longing. By the time they finally THIS SUMMER, thousands of religious Jews, amongst reached their goal, the dramatic outpouring of their them hundreds of yeshiva and students, pent-up emotions was surely understandable. will be visiting Eretz Yisroel. High priority in their Those days are fast disappearing, I propose, because itinerary will be visits to the many Mekomos Hake­ for so many - the observant following close on the doshim (holy sites). heels of the non-observant - the camera preceeded the There was once a time when just about the sole moti­ Tehillim in priority among the appurtenances to take vation for any Jew to visit to the Holy Land was to be along. In addition, the resolution of the pilgrim has able to say: ,iii~,., 1lM11: m?o nMo wp:?1 'Minn ?'tn? ,,, altered: Today, many an indigent father who wishes to c1po .,,: 'iM1lV' n': ioY .,, ?Y1 ''Y C'oni M'ionw ,n":pn n"oo marry off his children turns with more confidence to a . . . iiin ni: 'M'lln C1'n 'MM: 'lln [1''t?J cnw"Behold I have (free loan society) than to Kever Rochel . undergone severe harships to come to this holy place to The urgency of the implorations has also lessened. pour out my supplications, and request from You our The problems of modern Jewry do not seem as acute as those of the pogrom-beleaguered Jew of yesteryear. Many of today's Jews have trained their eyes on a Hanoch Teller, an American studying in Mir-, is a frequent variety of other salvation-options, besides pouring out contributor to these pages. their hearts to the A-mighty.

The Jewish Observer I May-Ji.me, 1979 17 Furthermore, today's pilgrim to a certain extent has (Next Year in Jerusalem) how he will get the most become a "sightseer" and it has become increasingly mileage or relaxation out of his two weeks in Israel ... more difficult for the average tourist to approach the No different, indeed, than the person whose sole pur­ burial sites of the Avos and Emahos, Tannaim and pose for coming to Eretz Yisroel is "to visit relatives." Rishonim with appropriate gravity when they are pre­ sented as mere scribbles on a sightseer's itinerary. The Kapittel Tehillim recited at the kever becomes reduced * * * to a (lehavdil) benediction uttered by the excursionist THE ACCE55ABILITY of Eretz Yisroel also has a share in over the tourist attraction - equivalent to the obliga­ the obscuring of the holiness of the Holy Land. The tory perusal of a guide book at any major site. For so High Priest, who could enter the Kodesh Hakodoshim many, only this token "benediction" separates the (Holy of Holies) but once a year, surely approached the Mekomos HaKedoshim from Massada, Yad Kennedy, sacred chamber with appropriate sobriety. In the same and the Israel Museum. context, one can picture the elevated mien of the One might question the depth of emotion one can reasonably anticipate from a prayer recited from a Tehillim precariously balanced between a camera and a tour brochure, within the time pressures foisted by a hurried and harried tour-guide ... the yield can hardly be expected to exceed the investment. Not only does the pilgrim-cum-tourist suffer, Mekomos HaKedoshim also are dishearteningly mis­ treated ... Friday night at the Kosel, for instance, as at so many other worthy assemblies lidvar mitzva, too many participants forget their primary purpose for coming, and "the gathering place of the exiles" is relo­ cated from hotel lobbies to the shadow of Har Habayis ··~····· (the ). "Lecha dodi likras - Sam! it's a small world, Pnei Shabbos Nekab - Maish - you're here too!" Who stops to ponder what was once on the other side of the Wall? * * * WHEN I WAS a child, the camera man used to peri­ odically visit the neighborhoods with his pony. The children would line up with their parents for their pic­ ture on the pony. No stage in childhood was complete without one ... Today, who can return to America Yid who had saved up his rubles for twenty years to from a visit to Israel without his or her "picture at the make the long, taxing journey to Eretz Yisroel. For over "all"? a month he joggled and jostled with the sway of the Some may blame the State of Israel for turning every ship, grasping firmly to his bench - and his Tehillim, thing into a tourist attraction, and undeniably there is which he continuously consulted. some justification for this accusation - but the problem Times have changed, and we have changed ... The basically is cultivateed in America. From the day the days of the family representative leaving for Eretz Yis­ intended visitor purchases his airplane ticket, and pro­ roel have been replaced by the family excursion. A mere bably long before, his tourist mentality grows ... For twelve hours is the only time reserved for preparing some, the decision to visit Eretz Yisroel comes after fac­ oneself for the holy journey. Generally, these twelve ing a choice between Yerushalayim, Acapulco, or the hours are so preoccupied with creature comforts that it Catskills. With such an impious beginning, a less than is difficult to concentrate on much else - what with the sacred denouement is not unexpected. crew of flight attendants wining and dining the passen­ Reb Menachem Mendel of Vitebsk 'i"~T explained the gers, a movie playing overhead, and a "magazine of the verse in Tehillim (87:5) "But of Zion it shall be said, air" under one's elbow. One has difficulty remembering 'This and that man were born in her'" to mean that the Tehillim, and when one finally reaches for it, a voice each person who comes to Eretz Yisroel must be born interrupts: "Sir, would you care for a New Yorker afresh to appreciate the country's numinous nature. magazine? the Times? or the Wall Street Journal?" Instead, however, the American tourist has been cogi­ Time for reciting a Hineni Muchan Umezuman, let tating since the Seder's leshana haba'a be'Yerushalayim alone contemplate its meanings - the most minimum

18 The Jewish Observer I May-]1me, 1979 requirement before embarking on such a pilgrimmage - imagine a visit to the Alamo without some idea of Texas is often very hard to come by. And once the moment is history-lehavdil?) For example, before visiting the found, and held onto, the PA blasts out its: "Hava grave of the Rambam in Tiberias one should take some Nagilla" . .. Welcome to lsraelr time to read his lggeres Teiman (Epistle to Yemen), and to study the last paragraph in the Rambam's Yad Hachazaka on Laws of Shmittah and Yovel: * * * ''. .. And not just the tribe of Levi, but rather every individual whose spirit and intelligence has WHAT CAN BE DONE? As in all other spheres, proper endowed him with the will to separate himself education would go a long way toward reaping desir­ from the masses to stand before the L-rd ... to able results. Instruction that is not directed at where to serve Him, to worship Him, to know Him, and follow the just path . .. " -If this means delaying the visit, so be it. It is a worth­ while investment in recognizing whose remains are buried there. Then, in Safed, contemplate the shul that once stood there ... But first get your bearings. To the north is Meron, the burial site of Rabban Shimon Bar Yochai, Hillel, and Shamai ... A little to the west is where (according to one tradition) Mordechai and Esther are buried, not far from Yehoshua's Synagogue. To the east lie Rabbeinu Yehuda Hanassi, Abaye, and Rava. Every degree of the compass is sanctified with the graves of the Tannai'im, and Rishonim. Walk through the narrow, cobbled streets which reverberate with kedusha at every step, past the Menoras Hamaor Shul and Ari Beis Medrash. Contemplate this Shul as it once was. It had quite an impressive Mizrach vant. The rav was the Ari'zal, the famed Mekubal. The Pasek was Rav Yosef Karo, author of the : Shlomo Alkabetz, the composer of Lecha Dodi was the Chazan; and the Chareidim was the Shamash. The mystery yet to be solved is - who was the gabbai? Per­ haps the" Ramak," maybe the" Mabit'' ... * * *

ALTHOUGH the Gemora (Pesachim sob) emboldens nr.nrh M:i n~w' M'lV 1m~ "Out of doing good (shelo lishma) with an ulterior motive comes doing good for its go, why to go and how to go is incomplete. Certainly, own sake (lishma)." There are, of course, no guarantees. the major Mekomos haTorah and Chassidus deserve The Gemora, however, does comment (Pesachim Sb): equal time with the Mekomos Hakedoshim. It is a pity Why were the sweet fruits of Genosar not created that even many a serious visitor often limits himself to in Jerusalem instead? So Festival pilgrims should graves of the past and so does not avail himself of the not say, "Had we merely ascended (olinu) in order many living "monuments" that bless Israel. A visit to to eat the fruits of Genosar in Jerusalem, it would the vibrant yeshivas of Jerusalem and , a have suffice' us" with the result that the pil­ Shabbos tefilla or tisch with one of the salient Chassidic grimage wou1d not be for its own sake (lishma). groups, a private audience with a leading Torah perso­ Similarly, Rav Doesthai son of Rav Yannai nality - can a visit to Eretz Yisroel be complete without inquired: "Why were the hot springs of Tiberias all of these 1 not created in Jerusalem instead?" So that the The virtual lack of organized religious tours is Festival pilgrims should not say, "Had we merely disheartening: "Egged" has cornered the market with ascended (olinu) in order to bathe in the hot tours that by-and-large are either Mechallel Shabbos, springs of Tiberias it would have been reason of strictly Christian interest, or of negligible religious enough to come" -with the result that the pil­ Jewish orientation. When embarking on a visit to a par­ grimage would not be for its own sake ..." ticular place, the major emphasis must be on some Remarkably prophetic: "the result being an aliya enlightenment regarding the destination. (Could one shelo lishma ..." ~T.

The Jewish Observer/ May-June, 1979 10 The Brisker Legacy

The Lithuanian city of Brisk is cele­ not as widely known: the exceptional Brisker brated as a home of Talmudic scholars, generosity. notably the famous Soloveitchik family-Reh Some stories regarding these traits were Yoseif Dov ("Reb Yosha Ber," 5580/1820- recounted by RABBI CHAIM LEIB BALGLEY 5652/1892), Reb Chaim (5613/1853-5678/ K''tJ''itv in the September '79 Jewish Observer. 1918), and Reb Yitzchok Zev ("Reb Velvel," On these pages, Rabbi Balgley continues in his 5647/1887-5719/1959) n::ii:i? ciii:::>T, who in remmzscences, relating several incidents succession served as rabbis of Brisk. In addi­ regarding outstanding rabbinical leaders of tion to their lomdus (analytical approach to Brisk through the ages-incidents that exemp­ Talmud study) and their kano'us (zeal), there lify the Brisker legacy. is yet another tradition, equally ingrained, but

I. The Bach's Formula for Recovery your Torah study at the yeshiva." "This is an altogether different matter," said the Rabbi. "What is your son's name, and what is your When the BACH Rabbi ,,., ~-..;.1 'J• ''°'· Yoe! Surkis (16th Century ' - b,"' o. ~, ::i •., 7' name?" He recorded these names and sent her home ·~ I ,~ ... ~ ~·;"' ,i...... with his blessings. sc h o Iar w h ose red acttona. I it l'lj i;.;~'"'J., ~· .t ,..,, , 1 At the shiur, the Rabbi related the incident to his stu· notes appear in the margin 1; Ai; .~ ;,~~ i•hh:~ b:~·~.. ~) ~,/.... ·'~. ""J", .,,,-Jt f T I d d Sh I h ... ,., ,, ·, dents and asked them to concentrate on the Torah dis­ o a mu an u c an y.. > ., •· • ,,, ., 1 ~j~ , l., '\ 7 H ftJ Aruc)h was Rav in Bris, k ~,,.,, ;--.."- J}J.tJ1 ~/·-· course he was about to deliver, in which merit G-d .· - J- Ji. ,.,,, should send a complete and speedy recovery to that sick he directed a Yeshiva that ~'"°' ;.-, ;•,4 ~ ""'~ .. ~!::/ attracted students from all ' ' ' · - •'61 boy. Upon the conclusion of the Torah lecture, the ~ .- ,. ".. ;< .. , 'C;:r; t);t'; -·" '. over Eastern Europe. His """ '·~ .... "•· _:, ..., A'J,,.,,,.' ,,1; Rabbi recited the customary Mi Shebeirach prayer for the sick. graduates became outstand- t -~·,~~;\~ 1.c•• ~~~~:?.-~ ing rabbinical leaders in a ·- · -· The following day, the mother entered the yeshiva number of prominent communities. and with tears of joy, related what had transpired several One morning, when the BACH was on his way to the hours after her street-side plea with the Rabbi-how her yeshiva, a woman came running toward him crying: son had opened his eyes, then asked for water, and later "Rebbe, help me. My only child who attended your for some food; and shortly afterward got out of bed and yeshiva took sick and was hospitalized for a full month. played about on the floor. The mother then publicly­ Now the physicians have given up on him and sent him before the assembly of students and teachers­ home. Rebbe, help me!" expressed deep gratitude to G-d and took leave. The BACH explained that his medical knowledge was Later in the day, after she had returned home, the in no way superior to that of the physicians. adding, family physician stopped by to check on the child. "In what way can I possibly be of help? Even our fore­ When he saw the boy walking about and playing, he father Yaakov told Rachel (when she pleaded with him exclaimed: '"This is beyond all wonders! We had ex­ 'Give me children"): Can I substitute for G-d?" pected his life to end in a matter of days. What in the She begged: "Rebbe, I have not come for your per­ world happened since he came home from the hos­ sonal aid in my son's behalf, but rather for the merit of pital?" Upon learning the sequence of events, the physician exclaimed: "This is truly tchias hamei'sim-a revival of Rabbi Ba1g1ey, a native of Brisk, served as Rav in Dubinova, , the dead! I am now a convinced man of faith." and now resides in Monsey, New York. His "Growing Up in Brisk" appeared in Sept. '78 JO. (This incident is recorded in the Book of Records of Brisk.)

20 The Jewish Obseroer I May-June, 1919 II. Protector of the Schools The Mayor mounted his large white steed, and rode off. While he was crossing a bridge at full gallop, the bridge collapsed and horse and rider were plunged into Rabbi Yehoshua Leib the raging river below, to be drowned. Diskin (5577 /1816-5658/ 1896) was a young man The Jewish community of Brisk maintained their when he became rav of Torah educational system, while the Maskilim con­ Brisk. At that time, the tinued to plot against it at their meetings. Today, we Maskilim were attempting still speak of Brisker Torah with awe, while the Maski­ to reform the Jewish educa­ lim of Brisk have long been forgotten. tional system, assuming that once they have taken over the schools all other aspects of Jewish life would III. The Road to Brisk fall into place, gradually eliminating the older folks with their "old-fashioned ways." Prior to assuming the At that time, the Mayor of Brisk was a well-known rabbonus in Brisk, Reb anti-Semite. He especially could not countenance the Yosha Ber was Rav in Orthodox Jews and their way of life. Hence, when -a position he relin­ young, inexperienced Reb Yehoshua Leib became spiri­ quished on account of the tual leader of Brisk, the Maskilim seized the opportu­ following incident: nity to meet with the Mayor and attack the religious The Czar had a policy of Jews and their schools. They faulted the instructors as conscripting young Jewish being totally inconsistent with the spirit of the times, children into the army for a the classrooms as unhygienic-plus several other twenty-year term of duty. "undesirable features." Without much difficulty, they These children-soldiers convinced the Mayor that he should force the new were called "Cantonists." This decree of whisking away young Rav to toe the line. young Jewish children deep into Siberia, isolated from The Mayor sent for the president of the Kehilla and other Jews, was in essence shmad. The government set insisted that he update the Jewish School, but the presi­ a quota for each community, affecting rich and poor dent protested that all religious, spiritual, and educa­ families alike, without exception. The rich paid high tional matters were in the Rav' s domain, and under his bribes to avoid the decree for their sons, but the quota sole jurisdiction. The Mayor then invited the Rav for a still had to be met, so children of poor families were discussion, congratulating him upon assuming the kidnapped. exalted rabbinical leadership of Brisk. He then informed A young boy from a nearby town was studying in the him that a new educational system was being instituted Slutsk elementary yeshiva. Some wealthy citizens had for the benefit of the entire Jewish community, which this child snatched, and locked up in an out-of-the­ the Rav, as supreme authority, was now to set into way hut. Reb Yosha Ber learned of this and was deeply motion. disturbed. He pleaded with the abductors for the boy's The Rav instantly explained that when the Creator gave the Torah to the Jews, He commanded them to release, but was ignored. Seeing that he could accom­ plish nothing with negotiations, he investigated and study this Torah in accordance with a prescribed found out where the boy was being held. He gathered method and system, which has been going on for some some of his loyal followers at midnight, and broke three thousand years-generation after generation. No temporal authority had the right to change this educa­ through the door with a hatchet and freed the boy. tional system. The wealthy group was infuriated at Reb Yosha The Mayor was enraged at the Rav's calm indepen­ Ber's arrogance in overriding them, and had him dis­ dence, not aware that the Rav was merely conforming missed .... Others say that in view of the unsavory to: "Thou shall not fear any man." element to be dealt with, he simply resigned. He left This was the first time anyone had dared disobey the Slutsk for the city of Brodt, where Rabbi Shlomo Mayor, who rose in a fit of anger, paced back and forth Kluger, would renowned gaon, was rav. There, in the excitedly in his office and barked: 'Tm busy right now atmosphere of the 24-hour Torah day, Reb Yosha Ber and in a hurry to attend an important meeting out-of­ spent three happy months totally immersed in study. town. When I return, I expect you to sign this docu­ ment (with the order to modernize the educational Upon taking leave of Brodt and its famous gaon, Reb system explicitly spelled out) on the dotted line and Yosha Ber said: "Chazal teaches us that a person should carry out its terms. " - at which he exited in a fury, not part company with his fellow without a halacha dis­ slamming the door behind him. cussion, to fix the occasion in his memory." Reb The Rav followed him out calmly. Shlomo Kluger replied: 'Tll pose a kushya (difficult

The Jewish Observer I May-June, 1979 question) for you, for which I am certain you will not IV A Visitor to Brisk have an answer. That is-"'Kashya olei pri'das'chem­ It was after World War I, your taking leave is kasha-difficult for me to bear." and the Slonimer Rebbe, After the bitter incident in Slutsk, Reb Yosha Ber did Reb Avraham, who was not care to remain in the rabbinate. However, the rab­ universally admired as an binical post was open in Brisk and a delegation was sent exemplary servant of G-d, to Reb Yosha Ber to ask him to accept the position. He was visiting Brisk. I was at declined. his Shalash Seudos meal, I had heard from the Chofetz Chaim that the com­ and the Rebbe expounded munity of Brisk was extremely anxious to obtain the on the maxim, "Be not like rabbinical leadership of Reb Yosha Ber, and delegated a the servants who serve the larger committee to entreat him not to reject a city of Master with the expecta­ 50,000 Jews praying for his arrival. Reb Yosha Ber was tion of receiving reward, but rather ... without any so impressed that he and his Rebbetzin set out at once such expectation," and "Let all your deeds be for sake for Brisk. At this, the Chofetz Chaim declared: "Master of Heaven." He added, "One should be ready to offer of the Universe! Behold Yosha Ber! Upon hearing that a his share in the World-to-Come for the sake of a community of Jews are prayerfully awaiting his arrival mitzva." The Rebbe concluded saying that in our gen­ he went there forthwith. All Israel has been awaiting eration there actually is such a Jew, who had offered his Moshiach for so long. Isn't it surely time that You share in Olam Haba for the sake of a mitzva. immediately send us the Redeemer?" After havdalla, the Slonimer Rebbe's closest fol­ lowers asked him privately, "Who is the person who (Such was the Chofetz Chaim's way of inbuing was willing to do that?" every event with spiritual significance.) He replied with the following story: "When the Chofetz Chaim was in Warsaw to publish his works, he was staying at a hotel where several frum Jewish merchants were having a discussion around a IS RAEL nearby table. Overhearing their converfltion, the Burials and American Disinterments Chofetz Chaim advised them that they were talking F1XT~1Xtv 01;)~tv (slander), and that they should stop. One of announces that RIVERSIDE continues to be the only licensed the merchants apparently recognized the Chofetz funeral director 1n the U .s_ able to elfecl Chaim and spoke up: 'You write your books on lash on Transfer to Israel within the same day hara to gain yourself Olam Habo. Good for you. But, Har Haze1tim Har Hamenuchot who gave you the right to tell me what I may say?' And all Cemeteries In Israel "Replied the Chofetz Chaim: 'I would gladly forfeit RIVERSIDE also is available as the Sole agent for Sanhadrea Cemetery :im 1m'i llll'~:i1 ll!l'i'l 1l•n:i111 RIVERSIDE only can offer this service A DREAM COME TRUE Enroute to Israel within the same day A luxurious hotel in the heart of Boro Park • Strict adherence to Halacha and Minhagim • Arrangrnents made during lifetime with no obligation • Chapel secured in any community Relax No mort> \.vorrv ahout \vhert> to -,tav You.rt> ni>ar everyone and t>veryth1ng. and you're onlv J(l rn1nuti>s from Manhatlan Whethi>r you.re planning to stay for a n1gh1. a RIVERSIDE \.1.:.,t>k-end or longer. ~'OU mav choose a studio ibedroon1 kit Memorial Chapel, Inc. Funeral Directors chen. bnth) or a suite (living room_ bt>droom, kitchen. bath no extra charge for up to 2 children under age 14) You.II feel MANHATTAN rovi!llv ii! home amidst carpeting. maid and telephone servJCe 180Wes1 76!h (at Amsterdam Ave.) NY .. N.Y. / EN2-6600 St and color TV En1oy a WcHm. nourishing hreakfasf 111 our BROOKLYN: 310 Coney Island Ave_ ( at Prospect Park), Brooklyn, N Y I UL 4-2000 dt>l1ghtful breakfilst room 1f you wish Room serv1Ce is giadk· BRONX: 1963 Grand Concourse (a! 179th SLJ, Bronx. N_Y I LU 3-6300 prov1dt>d on reque:;t Your guests are welcome You.II hatt> to FAR ROCKAWAY: 12-50 Central Ave. Far Rockaway, N.Y I FA 7-7100 And The Westchester Riverside Memorial Chapel, Inc leavt-'. but whi>n the t1n1t comes to SilY good bye. vnu·JI bt> 21 West Broad Street, Mt. Vernon. NY I (914) MO 4- 6800 looking forv,.:ard to staving with us again Chapels in Miami, Miami Beach. HoHywood, Sun11se. Florida Car! Grossberg I Andrew Fier I Solomon Shoulson i.IJJa1~ -~UM -~

Asher Scharf. 01;,rwr For generations a symbol of Jewish Tradition

The Jewish Observer I May-June, 1979 my share in Olam Haba for these works of mine on the VI. Brisk-A Spiceshop of Goodness condition that you agree to cease talking.' To which the merchant retorted, 'For this alone-your very forfeiting and Zeal your share of Olam Haba-you will receive a special A number of years ago, a share of Olam Haba.' The Chofetz Chaim answered, v1s1tor from Jerusalem 'Your reservations can easily be resolved. Let's go to a brought me regards from lawyer to draw up a legal document to the effect that I the Brisker Rav, Rabbi am forfeiting my share of Olam Haba; furthermore, Yitzchok Zev Soloveitchik should I earn any additional share for this I forfeit that (Reb Velvel) 7"~1. Reb also-plus any accruing benefits of Olam Haba ad infi­ Velvel had related to the nitum. And I'll put my signature to it.' At which the visitor that my father had Chofetz Chaim broke into tears and wept. been respected by the Beis "Upon witnessing the Chofetz Chaim's profound Horav as an individual who sincerity, the group of business men stopped their had absorbed both the conversation." ahavas chessed (selfless generosity) and kana'us (zeal) Among these businessmen was a Jew from associated with his family. On the one hand, Reb Velvel and it was he who had related this incident to the would send sick people to my father for his blessing, Slonimer Rebbe, who had referred to it at the Shalash even before sending them to Reb Chaim. Seudas that late Shabbas afternoon in Brisk. On the other hand, according to a magazine article about Brisk, my father was well-liked, and used this V. Postscript in Bialystok popularity to influence others to come closer to Torah. When I was studying in After World War I. barbershops were for some rea­ Bialystok after World War son very lax in Sabbath observance. A Shmiras I, the Chofetz Chaim Shabbas Society was organized, including in its mem­ visited our city to strength­ bership dayanim (rabbinical judges), Roshei Yeshiva, en the Vaad Hayeshivas. and other talmidei chachamim. This was the fund that he On Friday afternoons, members of this Society would had established with Rabbi visit half the city's Jewish shops (especially the barber­ Chaim Ozer Grodzensky, shops!), while my father visited the other half-they to which each Jew was to contribute two dollars year­ ly, as a basis for financing the Yeshivos. Some people questioned the advisability of taxing rich and poor alike, at a time when poverty was rampant in Bialystok. After all, there were enough rich people in the town to easily cover the entire budget on their own. The Chofetz Chaim replied with a smile: "Should we give away everything to the rich 1 Don't they enjoy plenty of Olam Hazeh? Should we also grant them all of Olam Haba as well? Each person should have a share in Torah-scholar and layman alike. The poor laborer and tradesman have practically nothing of Olam Hazeh. Should they also have nothing of Olam Haba?" At this very same time, the above-mentioned Slonimer Chassid happened to be in Bialystok. He told several of his fellow friends, "Come, let's join in wel­ coming the Chofetz Chaim.'' One of his cronies replied: "What for? He'll have a warm welcome without us. The entire city is turning out to give him a grand public welcome." But the Slonimer Chassid would not relent. "Don't be lazy. Let's all join the festive welcome. The Chafetz Chaim certainly deserves the participation of each and everyone of us!" He then told his friends about the incident he had witnessed in Warsaw, and the Slonimer Rebbe's com­ ments that late Shabbos afternoon at Shalash Seudas in Brisk. Needless to say they were convinced.

The Jewish Observer I May-June, 1979 were successful in persuading virtually all the shop­ down men like so many weeds.-The men? The Czar owners to close their stores in time for Shabbos. had given orders to fight to their death. "New people Apparently the would-be Sabbath violaters recognized are born," he said, "but not land. Fight for every yard that their visitors' kano'us for Shabbos was motivated of land!" Soldiers sent to were known not to by genuine ahavas Yisroel. return. A particular incident during the War demonstrated My father joined us and listened in to our conversa­ for me how my father had absorbed the chessed of tion. I introduced the soldier: "This is a Yeshiva bochur Brisk to the point of risking his life for others: We had I know from my days in Lubavitch." been driven out of Brisk, site of a large army encamp­ There he stood, with a rifle on his shoulders, white as ment, and we settled in Vayazma, a town near , chalk-a picture of fear. My father thought for a whose population was 99% non-Jewish. My father sent moment, then said to him, "Don't go on the train. me to Lubavitch to study. Some time later, as the war Don't stand around here. Follow us home." progressed and the Germans were advancing toward When we arrived home, my father set up temporary Moscow, my father came to Lubavitch to take me home. sleeping quarters in the basement and said: "To stay in One day, when I was at the railroad station, a soldier the army and follow orders is absolute suicide. The approached me: "Sholom Aleichem. Do you recongnize Czar has said as much himself. You're my guest, but me? I was in an advanced class in Lubavitch when you you mustn't go out or be seen. All our neighbors are were in the yeshiva ... I'm awaiting an arn1y train, non-Jewish. The Czar issued a decree that any soldier which should be arriving in about an hour. I'll be leav­ deserting the army or anyone sheltering a deserter will ing for Minsk, on the front lines." be executed. So don't leave this basement!" Minsk was not far from Moscow, and the Germans We kept the boy hidden there until the war was over. were advancing with heavy artillary, tanks, and their What amazed me throughout was my father's calm in comparatively modern airforce, which was mowing the face of the daily danger involved-his matter-of­ fact manner, as if we had simply invited a guest to stay overnight. I was even more moved by my father's pro­ found respect for the young man as a Torah scholar­ both attitudes reflecting the heritage of Brisk. It was this ~lication precisely as the Gemora says: When one enters a spice­ shop, sweet fragrances become attached to his clothing. is available in lT. microfotan Pincus Mandel I Renowned Expert - Over 25 years \ experience in Kvura on all cemeteries in Eretz Yisrael With all Hidurim - as done only by Shomrei Torah Umitzvos Responsible for current system - speedily expedited - at Airport in 4 to 5 hours With more than 45 years of cemetery experience unceasingly dedicated to the highest standards ------Please send me additional information. of Chesed Shel Emes in all its implications University Microfilms International without emphasis on the inyan of monetary gain. 300 North Zeeb Road 18 Bedford Row Dept. P.R. Dept. P.R. Recommended by Most Prominent Ann Arbor, Ml 48106 London, WC1 R 4EJ Rabbanim and Admorim U.S.A. England Name ______Pincus Mandel 1569 47th St I Brooklyn, N. Y. 11219 Institution Street ______Day and Night Phone: (212) 855-5121 City ______All bills rendered on actual "Costs-Plus' BaS/s State ______Zip ____ No hidden or 'padded' charges Agudah Member - 50 years

24 The Jewish Observer/ May-June, 1979 Elisha Horowitz Plus \:a Change

CAN YOU imagine the horrified and clothing for these occasions, flashy wear coloured or white wigs and indignant outcry that would be and expensive cars, fancy holidays women's shoes could only be black raised in our present day and age if and - sometimes -the secret or white. A Barmitzvah boy could the wearing of arba kanfos (four unhappiness of those who cannot not wear a wig in front of the cornered ritual garment) in public really afford these luxuries but Torah neither could he distribute were to be banned 1 Yet this is strive, often unsucessfully, to lavish presents to all and sundry. precisely what happened in the keep up with their neighbours for He was only allowed to give his Italian port of Ancona in 1766 the sake of appearances. Let us teacher one collar as a gift! where, until then, it had been the take a look at some of' these Jewelry was heavily restricted normal practice to wear them in ancient takonos, mainly concerning in Italy from very early times. At the street. The prohibition was not dress, designed as they were to Forli {1416) no man was permitted due to any wickedness on the part ensure that Jews walked humbly to wear more than one ring at one of the local authorities; it was before G-d and conducted all their time whereas women were imposed by the Kehilla itself in an affairs with the modesty that the restricted to two or three. effort to curb the flaunting of the Torah recommends - and indeed Husbands were held responsible tallis kattan which was deemed to demands. for any breaches of the laws by be unnecessary. Only a chassan on their wives, and were fined his wedding day could still display IN THE three famous German Kehillos of Speyer, Worms and accordingly. Those who refused to his tzitzis in the open. conform altogether were excluded In many European Jewish com­ Mayence no one was allowed to cut his hair according to from minyanim and were neither munities of the past numerous allowed to lein from the Torah nor similar measures to combat non-Jewish fashion nor leave it to grow long. In addition everyone perform gelilah. At Metz (1690) ostentation were taken. These the wearing of diamonds - even takonos are recalled in A History had to wear a cloak or topcoat when they attended shul. imitation ones - was expressly for­ of Jewish Costume by Alfred bidden, although a kallah could Rubens, published by Wiedenfeld The wearing of costly clothes by wear the jewels that had been and Nicolson. We hear much in Jews after the manner of the Gen­ given to her as presents but, even today's permissive society about tiles must cease, say the laws of the then, only on the first Shabbos. over-lavish wedding banquets, the community of Frankfurt-am-Main enormous amount spent on the (1603 ). Men were not allowed to AGAIN AT Forli, no fur cloaks could be worn although fur lined ISRAEL CHARTERS 18 AVENUE PEAK DATES AVAILABLE FROM $599 - $689 SEFORIM & GIFT CENTER Command Travel TOLL FREE (800) 221·4840 5001 - 18 Avenue C 6 East 45th Street New York, New York 10017 (212)490-1213 Brooklyn, N. Y. 11204 (212) 633-9225

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Thi' ]ewi~h Observer I May-]rme, 1979 garments were allowed as long as abhorred the colour red in any repeater watches and jewel cases be the fur did not actually show. case, considering it to signify carried uncovered in public. Like­ Black was the only permitted cruelty. wise men could not wear plumes or colour and this is, in general, an Gold hair nets were denied to similar ornaments on their hats. interesting point. The Ramah women in Forli as were belts for states that red is a colour favoured men if the silver buckles thereon HAMBURG disallowed the wearing of crinolines and Mantua clamped by the aristocratic classes and exceeded six ounces in weight. should be avoided in favour of Dresses with trains were banned down on gold and silver embroi­ black. Jewish people have long in Modena; neither could clocks, dery. In another place no more than three ladies and two maids could walk in the street together. In the laws of Hamburg (1715), no one but the bride and three bridesmaids could use a carriage at a wedding. Other guests were only permitted to travel in this manner if it were raining hard. No ribbons could bedeck either horses or coachman. Special talleisim with gold atoros were allowed in Furth for Shabbosos and Yomim Tovim. When there was a doubt about the propriety of a certain garment, a picture of it was despatched to Poland for a rabbinical opinion. This occurred in the case of the rain cape, which the women of Furth first noticed in nearby Nuremberg. There was no objection to it on decency grounds - except regarding a Shabbos problem. Some argued that the cape could be considered as a coat whereas another school of thought deemed it a burden and therefore forbidden on Shabbos. When a picture of the cape was sent to Poland, it was promptly forbidden 8 varieties as Shabbos wear and thereupon it ceased to be fashionable. of the finest OF COURSE, despite all these restric­ quality, tions, members of the communities naturally concerned did manage to "get round" the laws at times. The delicious better clothes that Shabbos and Yorn Tov call for gave them these Kosher opportunities. However the laws Cheeses, had their point and a little of their spirit in today's free and easy under the atmosphere would not come amiss. supervision of As the 1738 laws of Carpentras, France, state: "Everyone wants to K'hal Adath Jeshurun, look important and wealthy; rich Rabbi and poor are indistinguishable." Things haven't changed much. "T. THURM BROS.-World ChHse Co., Inc., New York, N.Y. 10013 (Reprinted with permission from the London JEWISH TRIBUNE.)

The Jewish Observer I May~]1me, 1979 Among the more specific com­ ments quoted in the report we cite: The Gap Has "Dean Stendahl of Harvard Uni­ versity Divinity School expressed Been Filled! the view that reaching out to the unchurched was not proselytizing. Today's Mesivta High School He then asked: 'If your mission is graduate, desiring to enter a Yeshiva non-proselytizing, is there also a Gedo/a-but finding himself inade- way in which a Christian mission to 1 quately prepared to meet its stan­ the Jews can be seen as non­ dards ... Where does he go? Where proselytizing 1' ... does he turn? "Dr. Fisher (on behalf of National Conference of Catholic YESHIVA SHAARE CHAIM Bishops) cautioned that many (Jerusalem) Christians will, in fact, attempt to Proselytizing use such a program as that sug­ Founded under the haskomos of gested ... to justify the intensifica­ Rabbi Chaim P. Scheinberg, Rabbi tion of existing 'outreach' efforts or S. Z. Ohrbach, and the Steipler Rav, the even to aim these specifically at Shaare Chaim is the first preparatory 'non-affiliated Jews, especially yeshiva of this kind in Israel. The Unchurched youth.' ... Yeshiva otters a complete program "Dr. Harvey G. Cox of the Har­ geared to the unique situation of In the April JO, we commented vard University Divinity School such bachurim. on Alexander Schindler' s proposal said that a person not born Jewish Sensitive to their explicit needs, that Jewry engage in proselytizing to choose to be a Jew 'further esca­ the faculty devotes much effort to non-Jews to replenish our diminish­ lates the currently growing belief prepare serious minded boys tor the ing numbers. Among the many that any religion is something one road ahead. Daily Shiurim in reasons for objecting to the propo­ chooses, not something due to an Gemora, Rashi, and Toseftos, are sal, we mentioned that "one cannot accident of birth,' Dr. Cox supplemented with shiurim in Hash­ help but wonder: how will we suc­ observed, adding: 'This in turn kafa, Chumash and Mussar. Per­ ceed in our efforts to persuade our suggests that people born Jewish sonal tutoring is an intrinsic part of Christian friends to deflect their can choose another path, and the program for those who are in m1ss1on1z1ng efforts from our should be allowed to do so if it need of it. The intensive one-halt Jewish brothers to non-believing seems more persuasive to them.'" year to two-year program will quality , when others from our own Why, then, was the UAHC the average Talmid for entrance into ranks are seeking to win 'un­ pleased with the results of its poll? the Yeshiva of his choice. Because those polled all gave the churched' Christians to Judaism, For further information contact: instead of concentrating on our Reform body high marks for "eas­ own?" ing centuries old misunderstandings and tensions." It's nice to be liked Yeshiva Shaare Chaim It has not taken long for the pre­ P.O.B. 15078 diction to come true. The Union of by former adversaries, even if it also threatens your identity-if you are Jerusalem, Israel American Hebrew Congregations, Tel. (02) 533939/533326 which is the central body of Reform uneasy with it. !..'t Judaism in the US and Canada, polled prominent Christian theolo­ WANTED: gians as to their reactions to the Agudath Israel Memorabilia Schindler Proposal. While a UAHC In its continuing effort to preserve 1915 through 1950. We are looking report expressed pleasure with the the history of the Agudath Israel and for correspondence, books, articles, responses, we found them alarming, the Or+~iodox Jewlsh cbmmunity in pamphlets, pictures, programs, mono­ for-as the report itself stated­ America, the National Orthodox gtaphs, invitations, etc. We are also "several respondents made the Jewish Archives of Agudath Israel of particularly interested in materials point that seeking converts among America appeals to you to contribute relating to the Hatzoloh years of the 'unchurched' was a two-way any materials and documents that you 1938-1948. street and that the large number of may have that relates to the Orthodox To arrange for the transfer of mate­ unaffiliated Jews in the United Jewish community. rials, write to: National Orthodox Of particular interest to the Archives Jewish Archives, Agudath Israel of States might be deemed legitimate is all material that related to life in the America, 5 Beekman Street, New York 'targets' for Christian proselytiz­ Orthodox Jewish community from City 10038, or call 964-1620. ing." The }ewjsh Observer I M11y-]une, 1979 " FOUR Afternoon Courses BEGINNING IN SEPTEMBER AND OCTOBER *COMPUTER PROGRAMMING INTRODUCTION/BASIC/COBOL/BAL & JCL *WORD PROCESSING MEETING TODAY'S OFFICE NEEDS WITH THE TECHNOLOGY OF TOMORROW *COMMERCIAL ART PASTE UP/MECHANICALS COMPREHENSIVE LETTERING/RENDERING *FASHION DESIGN A SELF-IMPROVEMENT COURSE - DRAWING/ PATTERN MAKING/DRAPING/SAMPLEMAKI NG

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28 The Jewish Ob~erver I May-June, 1979 precision in his Chiddushei Torah Letters to the F,di1ur does not in any way reflect on the correctness of the Chazon lsh's statement as understood by the writer. Dr. Mermelstein specifically had written that no criticism was ever intended of the Brisker Rav. I believe that our Torah community •i should be mature enough to accept that gedolim also have distinct per­ "Gedolei Yisroel": would be fasting on the following day and would therefore be weak, sonalities, with different psycho­ Facts and Psyches they would do better to study the logical make-ups that can be clearly night before and sleep the next day. discerned. To be sure, we cannot To the Editor: They learned that night. But instead analyze gedolim, since psychology of going to sleep the next day, Reb does not know the affects of Having studied under Reb Chaim Chaim continued studying for mitzvos, neshama, etc. on a gadol's Shmulevitz 'i"lt for several years, I another two days without stopping psychological make-up, but the found the article written about him to eat or sleep! Chaznon !sh did explain the Rav's to have accurately portrayed the (2) He had not "heard that there actions in such terms, and I do many facets of his great personality. were 14 questions on the topic they believe we can accept his explana- However I fear that the reader may were studying." After Reb Chaim tion. A. L. KOVNER gain the impression that these would learn a sugya, he would Lakewood, N.]. aspects all manifested themselves analyze it, "catalogue" its compo­ equally in his personality. Reb nents, listing the questions he had Chaim was first and foremost a per­ asked on the sugya, and commit the Chap-A-Noah at Miami'• son permeated with Torah, and liv­ information to memory. Thus the ing in a world of Torah. For the 14th question that he couldn't majority of his life, he resisted any DELI-NOSH remember was his own. GLA n KOSHU FAST FOODS attempt to tear him away from (3) It was when Reb Chaim ate Und., Orthedoa Rabbintcol Coun

The Jewish Observer I May-]1me, 1979 New Feldheim Publications Ever Since Sinai: another classic by Irving Letters of : Translated and edited M. Bunim the author of "Ethics from Sinai." with introductions and notes by the late Leon LETTERS CONTINUED Essays on the valued, the vanishing, and D. Stitskin. Includes English translation of the everlasting in American Jewish life. A ten enduringly significant letters of the Ram­ rich harvest from decades of lectures and bam. With an introductory essay which banquet speeches filled with wit, erudition explores the authentic thought modes of Rabbi Scheinman and anecdotes. Here is the full force and bril­ Maimonides. 200 pages/ $10.00 liance of the fabled raconteur, master of gems ("Growing into Marriage," Jan. '79) of homiletic thought. 416 pages/ $12.50 Proceedings of the Association replies to criticisms: V'imru Amen I And Let Us Say Amen: a of Orthodox Jewish Scientists collection of passages from the Talmud, Mid­ Volume V: Nine essays: Immanuel Jakobo­ rashim, Zahar, works of mussar and Early vits, Tay·.Sachs disease and the Jewish com­ I feel honored that so distin­ and Later Authorities on the importance of munity; Yaakov Choueka, Menachem Slae, guished a Torah personality as answering amen to blessings and prayers by Samuel W. Spero, A computerized retrieval Rabbi 5. Carlebach chose to review Rabbi Joshua Alter Wildman. Hebrew with system for the responsa literature-revisited; and correct my article ("Letters" in English translation by Charles Wengrov. Reuven P. Bulka, Death in life: Talmudic and JO May, '79). His suggestions have logotherapeutic affirmations; Hugo Mandel­ 288 pages/ $5.95 made me aware of the lack of clarity The Antidote: Human sexuality in a Torah baum, Ma'aseh Bereshith and geology; Moshe lialevi Spero, Perspective on the of a few points in my article, and I perspective: an answer to cultural condition­ hope that my explanations will ing, mass media manipulation, secular yetzer hara: a reinterpretation of Talmudic theories of sexuality, etc th

30 The Jewish Observer I MQy-June, 1979 material existence; it is the basis and my colleagues have I begun to yeshiva is automatically a ben for existence itself. To be a nivra understand what a life of "giving" Torah; and someone whose conduct means to receive one's complete means. at home is not in line with what is existence from G-d, and thereby be My article was intended as a taught in yeshiva, does not cast a a "taker" by one's very nature. By crystalization of the ideals of a ben shadow on all bnei Torah, but the same token, to create is ipso Torah. The hyperbole of "naivete" rather demonstrates that he himself facto to give completely, for a at the beginning was meant as a unfortunately has strayed far off creator can in no way be dependent medium for contrast rather than as a course. upon his creations. Incidentally, the documentation of the prevalent atti­ "taking" that Rabbi Carlebach tude. Rabbi N"tl''nv A. 5CHEINMAN refers to as kaveyachol (as if to say) has a small pamphlet for chassanim. Jerusalem a midah (attribute) of G-d is not to The introduction is a "dialogue" be associated with our midah of tak­ between Rabbi Wolbe and a chas­ ing. We "take" to fulfill a need; san, in which Rabbi Wolbe ques­ while G-d "takes" to show His tions the chassan in regard to his No Chicken ratzon and pleasure with our avoda. ideals. The chassan replies with a Similar to tl)e ruling in the Gemora vague, idealistic answer. Reb Wolbe in Kiddushin, which says that when then advises him that for the sake of Is More a man of prestige accepts a gift it is a happy life he must be "more down as though he gave one, for his pur­ to earth." This was the basis for my Kosher Than pose in taking is to give satisfaction introductory remarks. to the person presenting it to him. In short, I did not mean to (3) I regret that my article has denounce the ideals dear to every been misconstrued to read as a" cri­ true ben Torah, but rather to trans­ tique" on bnei Torah. I personally late them into practicality. am a yungerman and only by In conclusion, I would like to add observing my Rabbeim, my elders, that not everyone who steps into a Kosher ... with a healthy attitude STATE OF 1 1SRAEL ISRAEl

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31 Granting Awards to Intermarried zations and institutions have given should be sufficient by itself for this Jews public testimonials to intermarried not to be done. In addition, the Jews who have given them contri­ devastating effect of such presenta­ To the Editor: butions. tions on young Jews might be con­ With regard to your recent article The halacha forbids the granting sidered. on intermarriage, it is sad to note of such awards to Jews who are We hope all Orthodox organiza­ that a number of Orthodox organi- married to non-Jews and that tions will follow the halacha and not grant awards to intermarried Jews. We can then make the simple truth clear to young Jews-that money cannot buy everything. IRVING (YITZCHOK) POLLACK , N. Y.

Sephardi or Arab? Tehillim/ Vol. III To the Editor: (Psalms 56-85) On p.5 of your issue of October with a new translation and commentary anthologized 1978 there is a picture illustrating from the ageless classics of Torah literature the Sephardi gap in Israeli society, by Rabbi Avrohom Chaim Feuer which purports to show a group uf Has there ever been a Jewish generation that could not Sephardic youngsters on the streets find its joys and woes, its gratitude and groans, its hope of Israel in 1978. and travail. expressed in the words of the King 'who sated In reality, the picture is one of his Creator with songs and praise?' Arab newsboys waiting for Ma'ariv The T ehillim has become the T ehillim for to appear so they can commence to Eng!ish·speaking Jews who refuse to compromise one hawk it through the streets of Jeru­ iota of our Sages' teachings. It belongs in your home too! salem. The picture was taken on 384 pages hardcover $11 95 paperback $895 Rehov Hillel, right in front of the Ma'ariv distribution office. As one who has lived in Jeru­ For your Trshah B'Av reading - Ready for salem for ten years, I personally in a new edition August Publication recognize both the location and ~ The ArtScroll The many of the Arab newsboys in the "":-~~:h(.ih Inaugural Volume picture. Eichah of the AARON RAKEHET-ROTHKOH The pathos and beauty of Yir" ArtScroll Jerusalem, Israel miyahu's dirge - The historical Jewish perspective on the eter· The photograph was taken from nal Tishah B'Av - no other Series Challenge, a magazine published by sefer presents them with such Seder vol IV. the Sephardi Council of ]eruselem, clarity, beauty, and inspiration. including: Taanis which listed it as we did­ incorrectly. NW Translation and anthologized commentary Moed Katan by Rabbi Meir Zlotowitz Chagigah Oueroiew by anthologized by I THE WORLD F AMOVS I Rabbi Rabbi Avrohom Yosef DIGEST OF MEFORSHIM ! Rosenberg hardcover $750 paperback $495 '\llv' il'l:l '\l~v' I ?•11 ,yD;K .,K.,,!V 'i Vi'l"\,,,, Awo;/obfe al - Watch for the ArtScroll Tashlich - LEKUTEI INC. Order Tehi!lim and Eichah now from your bookseller c Io I. Rosenberg or direct from the publisher: TO Wes+ •7th Stre-e+. R.oom 702 New York, N. 'Y. 100)6 20 Volumes on Torah, Perek, Medrash, Megilas and Talmud. P1ocMds ol soles

" The Jewish Observer I May-June, 1979 INDEX TO ARTICLES THE JEWISH OBSERVER I Vol. XIII, No. 1-10

SUBJECTS

Books in Review The First Mishna and the Hashkofa (Torah Philosophy) Thoughts Israel -Security A Letter of Guidance for Highest Court, Mar. '78; Ever Since During a Moment of Truth, Mar. '78; These Troubled Times, May '78; The Sinai, Mar. '78; Why is This Night Dif­ "Did You Conduct Your Business Spirit of Camp David and the Matters­ ferent?, Mar. '78; The Rav, Mar. '78; Affairs with Faith?", May '78; A Letter dorf Mood (Second Looks), Oct. '78; In The Jews of Rhodes, May '78; Strive of Guidance for These Troubled Times Search of Global Security (translation for Truth, June '78; The Way of G-d, (an adaptation), May '78; The Master and adaptation), Jan. '79; "Peace" - June '78; Love Your Neighbor, Oct. '78; Race and the Chosen People: A Look at Anatomy of a Dramatic Change, Apr. A Tzaddik in our Time, Oct. '78; Ram­ the Nazi Ideology in a Torah Light, June '79. ban Writings and Discourses, Oct. '78; '78; Simchas Beis Hasho'eiva - The Art Jerusalem The New Jerusalem Stadium: Challenge of Sinai, Dec. '78; The Book of Celebration, Oct. '78; The Aware­ Ghosts of Herod Past?, Mar. '78. of Ezekiel, Dec. 78; Hanukkah Crafts, ness Imperative, Dec. '78; Chanukah Dec. '78; Sefer HaChinnuch, Apr. '79; Gems (adaptation and translation), Dec. Jews in Europe Reb Pesach Pruskin 7"::ti, Rav A Philosophy of Mitzvot, Apr. 79; The '78; The Obligation to Speak and to Act and Rosh Yeshiva of Kubrin, June '78; Mitzvot, -1-he Commandments and (adaptation and translation), Jan. '79; Growing up in Brisk - Remembering Their Rationale, Apr. 79; The Haunted In Search of Global Security (adapta­ Reb Chaim Soloveitchik (an adapta­ Shu! and other Devora Doresh Myste­ tion and translation), Jan. '79; Growing tion), Sept. '78; Tiktin, Poland, Dec. ries, Apr. '79; David Mayer, the Into Marriage, Jan. '79; The Jew in His '78. Orphan from Jerusalem, Apr. 79; I am Community (translation and adapta­ an Orthodox Jew, Apr. '79; Jerusalem, tion), Feb. '79; The Omer, Apr. '79. Jews in Israel The Sephardi in Israel: The the Eye of the Universe, Apr. '79; The Gap to be Bridged, Oct. '78. Heavenly City, Apr. '79. "Why Auschwitz Was Never Bombed," May '78. Jews in USA Preserving the Communities, the Building Blocks of Kial Yisroel, - Holocaust see World War II Mar. '78; The Lower East Side Revisited With a Twist (Second Looks), May '78; - A Review Article, Mar. '78; Chal­ From a Conservative Rabbi: A New Interfaith Activities Pesach: A Time of New lenge and Commitment, Apr. '78; The Metaphor for "Chutzpah" (Second Understanding {Second Looks), May Rights of Women, Society, and the Looks), Jan. '79; Women Rabbis for the '78. Equal Rights Amendment, Apr. '78; Conservatives? {Second Looks), Feb. Maze! Tov at the Orange Bowl or '79; Criticizing the Conservatives: Intermarriage Combatting the Intermarriage Thank G-d it's not My Mendel! "Lashon Hora"? (Second Looks), Feb. Crisis and Some of the Solutions, (Second Looks), May '78; Reassessing '79. Apr. '79. Alien Cults (Second Looks), June '78; Choosing the Representatives of the Interviews Shlichat Mitzvah, Apr. '78; The Cults Reassessing Alien Cults (Second Orthodox Jewish Community - by Bluzhever Rebbe Remembers: Embers Looks), June '78. Election or Selection?, Sept. '78; Close Midst the Ruins, June '78. Encounters of a Wireless Kind (Second Looks), Sept. '78; Brave New Heroes Death The Bereaved Jew's Bill of Rights, Israel The Teshuva Movement in Israel: (Second Looks), Sept. '78; Missing - A Dec. '78; Of Death and life (Second "The Israeli ,'' Mar. Feeling of Galut, Oct. '78; The Aware­ Looks), Apr. '79. 78; The Teshuva Movement in Israel: ness Imperative, Dec. '78; The Stum­ "My Bag: The Yeshiva," ... Mar. '78; bling Blocks, Dec. '78; A Dirge for Missing - A Feeling of Galut, . . Oct. Shabbos in Bero Park (Second Looks), ERA The Rights of Women, Society and the '78; The Explosion That Shook Up Dec. '78; Preparation for Marriage: A Equal Rights Amendment, Apr. '78. Bayit Vegan, ... Jan '79; The Real Kir­ Prevention for Divorce, Jan. '79; yat Shemona Story (Postscript), Jan. Samuel Myer Isaacs: Battler for Ortho­ '79; Letters to the Editor, Jan. '79. Federation Federation and Yeshivas - Some dox Integrity in Nineteenth Century Noteworthy Changes and Concerns Israel - Missionaries The Jew: By Which America, Jan. '79; Combatting the (Second Looks), Jan. '79. Image? (Second Looks), Apr. '78. Intermarriage Crisis and Some of the Solutions, Apr. '79. festivals The Role of Women in Bringing the Israel - Politics The Jew: By Which Image? Redemption (an adaptation), Apr. '78; (Second Looks), Apr. '78; Strictly a Jews in USSR Shlichat Mitzvah {an inter­ "Simchas Beis Hasho'eiva" - The Art Matter of Principle, Sept. '78. view), Apr. '78; Brave New Heroes of Celebration, Oct. '78; Chanukah (Second Looks), Sept. '78; Soviet Jews Gems (translation and adaptation), Dec. Israel - Religion Strictly a Matter of IJrin­ & Political Reformers (Second Looks), '78; Preparing for Pesach (Photographic ciple, Sept. '78; An Exchange of Words Sept. '78; Last of the Leningrad Trial Essay), Feb. '79; The Omer, Apr. '79. (Second Looks), Sept. '78. (Postscript), Apr. '79.

Copies of articles listed are available in back issues at $1.25 each. If the issue is out of print, a photo-copy of the specified article will be sent at the same rate. Write to: The Jewish Observer I Back Issue Department IS Beekman St. New York, N. Y. 10038. Remittance must accompany your order.

The Jewisl1 Observer/ May- ]tme, 1979 33 Kashrus STaM Controls (Postscript), June Politics Choosing the Representatives of the Torah Education Close Encounters of a Wire­ '78. Orthodox Jewish Community - by less Kind (Second Looks), Sept. '78. Election or Selection?, Sept. '78; Letters Kole! RCA: Friend of the Family? (Second to the Editor, Dec. '78. Torah Scrolls Giving of the Law (photo­ Looks), Mar. '78; Who Shall Render the Professions Challenge and Commitment, graphic essay), May '78. Decisions? Meeting the Need, June '78; Apr. '78. Machon Yerushalayim: Kole! Man­ Torah Study Letters to the Editor, Mar. '78; power at Work, Feb. '79. Psychology Piety, Psychopathology and Letters to the Editor, Dec. '78; Machon Parent Power, Sept. '78; Letters to the Yerushalayim: Kolel Manpower At Literature The Nobel Laureate: Not Our Editor, Dec. '78; Preparation for Mar­ Work, Feb. '79. Lyrics, Not Our Singer (Second Looks), riage: A Prevention for Divorce, Jan. Dec. '78. '79; Letters to the Editor, Feb. '79. Translations and Adaptations The Role of Women in Bringing the Redemption, Marriage and Divorce RCA: Friend of the RCA RCA: Friend of the Family? (Second Apr. '78; Did You Conduct Your Busi­ Family? (Second Looks), Mar. '78; Pre­ Looks), Mar. '78. ness Affairs With Faith?, May '78; A paration for Marriage: A Prevention for Letter of Guidance for these Troubled Reminiscences The Bluzhever Rebbe Re­ Times, May '78;Growing up in Brisk - Divorce, Jan. '79; Growing Into Mar­ members: Embers Midst the Ruins (an riage, Jan. '79; Woman and Family in Remembering Reh Chaim Soloveitchik, adaptation and trans.), June '78; Grow­ ' Sept. '78; Chanukah Gems, Dec. 78; Recent Publications - a review article, ing up in Brisk - Remembering Reh Jan. '79; Letters to the Editor, Apr. '79. The Obligation to Speak and to Act, Chaim Soloveitchik (an adaptation and Jan. '79; In Search of Global Security, Media "Holocaust" - At Least They Know translation), Sept. '78; Tiktin, Poland, Jan. '79; The Jew in His Community, (Second Looks), May '78; Jewish His­ Dec. '78. Feb. '79. tory - With a Twist (Second Looks), Retarded Children "The Stone Rejected by May '78; An Exchange of Words the Builders .. ," May '78; The Urban Problems Preserving the Communi­ (Second Looks), Sept. '78. Retarded Child (Postscript), Jan '79; tiPs, the Building Blocks of Kial Yisroel, Medicine Faith and Humility in the Operat­ Just Like Everyone Else (Postscript), Mar. '78; The New Jerusalem Stadium: ing Room (Second Looks), Oct. '78. Jan. '79. Ghosts of Herod Past?, Mar. '78; The Review Article The Lower East Side Re­ Lower East Side Revisited - A Review STaM Controls (Postscript), June visited, Mar. '78; "Ahavas Yisroel" - Article, Mar. '78. '78. Love of One's Fellow Jew, in Life and Law, Oct. '78; Woman and Family in Women The Rights of Women, Society and Mitzvah Observance STaM Controls (Post­ Recent Publications, Jan. '79. the Equal Rights Amendment, Apr. '78; script), June '78; The Bereaved Jew's The Role of Women in Bringing the Bill of Rights, Dec. '78. Sacred Writings A Song of Praise ('s Redemption, (an adaptation), Apr. '78. Commentary on Shir Hashirim), Apr. Woman and Family in Recent Publica­ Narrative Thoughts During a Moment of '78. tions - a review article, Jan. '79. Truth, Mar. '78; The Explosion That Shook Up Bayit Vegan, Jan. '79. Sephardic Jews The Jews of Rhodes - Book World War II Where are the Scars?, Apr. Review, May '78; "Identity Crisis?" '78; "Why Auschwitz Was Never New York City The Lower East Side Re­ "Si, Senor'." (Postscript) Sept. '78; The Bombed," May '78; "Holocaust" - At visited, {A Review Article), Mar. '78; A Sephardi in Israel: The Gap to be Least They Know (Second Looks), May Dirge for Shabbos in Bora Park (Second Bridged, Oct. '78; The Sephardi in '7:8; Letters to the Editor, May '78; The Looks), Dec. '78. Israel: The Electrical Theory of Pre­ B~uzhever Rebbe Remembers: Embers judice, Oct. '78. Midst the Ruins, June, '78; The Master Personalities Reb Reuvain Grozovsky 7"iT - R!ace and The Chosen People: A Look at Twenty Years After, his Passing, May Social Comment Challenge and Commit­ ment, Apr. '78; Maze! Tov at the t!ie Nazi Ideology in a Torah Light, June '78; Jewish History - With a Twist '~ 8; Letters to the Editor, Dec. '78. (Second Looks), May '78; Reh Pesach Orange Bowl or Thank G-d It's Not 1 My Mendelr (Second Looks), May '78; Pruskin 7"iT Rav and Rosh Yeshiva of Who Shall Render the Decisions? Meet­ Yeshiv~ Education The Teshuva Movement Kubrin, June '78; Dear Reuvain: I was ing the Need, June '78; Reassessing Only Getting to Know You, June '78; irl Israel: "The Israeli Baal Teshuva," Alien Cults (Second Looks), June '78; . ~. Mar. '78; The Teshuva Movement Reb Reuvain Grozovsky ?11 iT (Post­ "It is not Good for Man to be Alone," itj Israel: "My Bag: The Yeshiva," . script), June '78; Growing Up in Brisk Oct. '78; Missing - A Feeling of Galut, - Remembering Reh Chaim Solovei­ Mar '78; Thoughts During a Moment Oct. '78; The Stumbling Blocks, Dec. o~ Truth, Mar. 78; Reb Reuvain tchik (an adaptation), Sept. '78; Samuel 1 '78; Preparation for Marriage: A Pre~ Grozovsky 7"itl - Twenty Years after Myer Isaacs: Battler for Orthodox vention for Divorce, Jan. '79. hiis Passing, ... May '78; Teaching the Integrity in Nineteenth Century Ameri­ FQurth Son, ... May '78; "The Stone ca, Jan '79; A Talmid Remembers Rabbi Soviet Jewry "Dobro Pozhalovat" The Rejected by the Builders ... ,"May '78; Chaim Leib Shmulevitz ?"it, Feb. '79; American Welcome to the Russian Who Shall Render the Decisions? Meet­ When the Sun Set at Midday: An Immigrant, Oct. '78; Letters to the in8 the Need, June '78; Reh Pesach Appreciation of Rabbi Raphael Baruch Editor, Jan. '79; Last of the Leningrad P~uskin, ?"itT Rav and Rosh Yeshiva of Sorotzkin 7"it, Apr. '79. Trial {Postscript), Apr. '79. KObrin, June '78; Preparation for Mar­ Photographic Essay Giving of the Law, May Tefilla Mistakes, Jan. '79. ri4ge: A Prevention for Divorce, Jan. '78; Preparing for Pesach, Feb. '79. '79; Federation and Yeshivas - Some Teshuva The Teshuva Movement in Israel: Nbteworthy Changes and Concerns Poetry Two By Rotbard: The Sign, The "The Israel Baal Teshuva," Mar. (S~ond Looks), Jan '79; A Talmid Subtle Element, Mar. '78; The Torah '79; Thoughts During a Moment of Ri?members Rabbi Chaim Leib Shmule­ Scholar, June' 78; On the Roman Bath~ Truth, Mar. '78; The Teshuva Move­ vitz ?"il, Feb. '79; When the Sun Set at House Uncovered at Emmaus, Dec. '78; ment in Israel: "My Bag: The Yeshiva," M)dday: An Appreciation of Rabbi A Volunteer's Incondite Expression of . . . Mar. '78; Our Responsibility to the R

The Jewish Observer I May-June, 1979 Kotler, Rabbi Shneur The Role of Women in Toshavi, Ezriel Strictly a Matter of Principle, AUTHORS Bringing the Redemption {an adapta­ Sept. '78; The Sephardi in Israel: The tion and translation), Apr. '78; The Jew Gap to be Bridged, Oct. '78; "Peace" - in His Community {an adaptation and Anatomy of a Dramatic Change, Apr. Balgley, Rabbi Chaim Leib Growing Up in translation), Feb. '79. '79. Brisk - Remembering Reh Chaim Kranzler, Gershon Challenge and Commit­ Twerski, Aaron The Stumbling Blocks, Dec. Soloveitchik (an adaptation and transla­ ment, Apr. '78. '78. tion), Sept. '78. Lefkowitz, Shmuel Preserving the Communi­ Wasserman, Rabbi Simcha Our Responsibi­ Berger, Yitzbak Just Like Everyone Else ties, the Building Blocks of Kial Yisroel, lity to the Baalei Teshuva: "Reach Out {Postscript), Jan. '79. Mar. '78. with Torah" (Postscript), Feb. '79. Lewin, Nathan Choosing the Representatives Brenner, Lewis "Why Auschwitz Was Never Weinbach, Rabbi Mendel The Teshuva Bombed," May '78. of the Orthodox Jewish Community - by election or selection?, Sept. '78. Movement in Israel: "The Israeli Baal Cohen, Arnold Giving of the Law (photogra­ Teshuva," ... Mar '78. Mermelstein, Dr. Jacob Piety, Psychopatho­ phic essay), May '78; Preparing for Weinberg, Rabbi Yaakov The Awareness Pesach (photographic essay), Feb. '79. logy and Parent Power, Sept. '78; Letters to the Editor, Dec. '78. Imperative, Dec. '78. Drori, Rivka Mendelevich Shlichat Mitzvah Wikler, Meir Preparation for Marriage: A (an interview), Apr. '78. Nabmoud, Nehama Consuelo Identity Cri­ sis? "Si, Senor!" {Postscript), Sept. '78; Prevention for Divorce, Jan. '79. Feinstein, Rabbi Moshe The Obligation to The Sephardi in Israel: The Electrical Wolpin, Rabbi Nissan Reh Reuvain Gro­ Speak and Act (an adaptation and trans­ Theory of Prejudice, Oct. '78. zovsky ?":tT - Twenty Years After his lation), Jan. '79. Oberstein, Ekhonon Reassessing Alien Cults Passing, May '78; Dear Reuvain: I Was Feitrnan, Yaakov The Master Race and the (Second Looks), June '78. Only Getting to Know You, June '78; Chosen People: A Look at the Nazi Combatting the Intermarriage Crisis. Ideology in a Torah Light, June '78. Pam, Rabbi Avrohom "Did you Conduct and Some of the Solutions, Apr. '79. your Business Affairs with Faith?" (an Feuer, Rabbi Avrohom Chaim "Simchas Beis adaptation and translation), May '78. Yisraeli, E. The Torah Scholar (a poem), June Hasho'eiva" - The Art of Celebration, '78. Oct. 78. Ragen, Naomi The New Jerusalem Stadium: Ghosts of Herod Past?, Mar. '78. Fryshman, Dr. Bernard The Rights of One of Ribowsky, Helene Teaching the Fourth Son, WORLD'S LARGEST Women, Society and the Equal Rights May '78. Amendment, Apr. '78; Choosing the CAMERA STORES Rotbard, Avraham Yishayahu Two by Rot­ Representatives of the Orthodox Jewish ,_..,,,, ,_.... -"''"'' .,_ bard: The Sign, The Subtle Element, - Community- by election or selection?, Mar. '78; On the Roman Bath-house Sept. '78; The Bereaved Jew's Bill of Uncovered at Emmaus, Dec. '78. Rights, Dec. '78, Schach, Rabbi Eliezer Menachem A Letter of Glick, Dr. Shimon Missing - A Feeling of Guidance for These Troubled Times (an Galut, Oct. '78. adaptation), May '78. Goldstein, David The Teshuva Movement in Scheinman, A. Growing Into Marriage, Jan. Israel: "My Bag: The Yeshiva," 1 '79. Wall Street I Mar. '78. Scherman, Rabbi Nosson The Bluzhever Grossman, Rabbi_David Machon Yerusha­ Rebbe Remembers: Embers Midst the Camera Exchange layim: Kole! Manpower at Work, Feb. Ruins, June '78; Chanukah Gems Complete line of Cameras {translation and adaptation), Dec. '78. '79. and Photo Supplies Shapiro, Rabbi Chaim Reb Pesach Pruskin Halevy, A. A Song of Praise (for "Shir Ha­ ?":tT, Rav and Rosh Yeshiva of Kubrin, 82 WALL STREET shirim"), Apr. '78. June '78; Tiktin, Poland' Dec. '78. NEW YORK, N.Y. Kahn, Rabbi Shlomo Mistakes, Jan. '79; Of Singer, Shmuel Samuel Myer Isaacs: Battler Telephone: (212)344·0011 Death and Life {Second Looks), Apr. for Orthodox Integrity in Nineteenth '79. Century America, Jan. '79. - Who/psale - Mail Order Solomon, Nathan A. "It is Not Good for Kaplan, Rabbi Aryeh The Jews of Rhodes - Rerail Man to be Alone", Oct. '78. {Book Review), May '78; Who Shall Spen;il Redu(!ions to all Render the Decisions? Meeting the Sorotzkin, Rabbi Boruch In Search of Global Readers of Need, June '78; The Omer, Apr. '79. Security (translation and adaptation), THE JEWISH OBSERVER Jan. '79. Kaufman, Rabbi Mendel The Lower East Side Revisited - A Review Article, Spitzer, Esther Thoughts During a Moment of Truth, Mar. '78. . . Mar. '78. :• .•••: : Keller, Rabbi Chaim Dov When the Sun Set Teller, Hanoch Where are the Scars?, Apr. ~:SHELLY .: .. at Midday: An Appreciation of Rabbi . . '78; "The Stone Rejected by the . . ?"iT, . . Raphael Apr. Builders . .,"May '78; "Dobro Pozha­ • • '79. =: LADli .. : . lovat'' - The American Welcome to the .... Russian Immigrant, Oct. '78; The E · 1rchestra • • • Klugman, Eliyahu Meir A Talmid Remem­ ...... bers Rabbi Chaim Leib Shmulevitz ?"iT, Explosion That Shook Up Bayit Vegan, .. . . Feb. '79. Jan. '79. =· 438-3402

The Jewish Observer/ May-June, 1979 Over 1200 rabbinic leaders, educators, nical dais to "harness the vast untapped currently living in Manhattan, who has community activists and guests who crowded source of productivity that lies out in this gained recognition for his activities on behalf the grand ballroom of the New York Hilton ballroom-this resource of loyalty and of many religious undertakings. Sunday evening, May 20, at the 57th annual energy; return the faith they have in you by Rabbi Shmuel Bloom, Agudath Israel's dinner of Agudath Israel of America heard issuing more challenges their way." Rabbi Director of Special Projects, presented special Rabbi Yaakov Kamenetzky, the senior mem­ Twerski pointed to the impressive list of community service awards to Manny Chopp, ber of the movement's Moetzes Gedolei achievements of Agudath Israel during the Rabbi Judah Dick, Hersh Leib Gefen, Rabbi HaTorah (Council of Torah Sages) tell the three decades since World War II, and em­ Yehuda Oelbaum, Hersh Yitzchok Reich and gathering: "We must respect our differences phasized its generally endowing Orthodoxy Israel Rosenberg-each of whom has a record with each other, for is not with the strength of purpose that grows from of unusual devotion to and fruitful activity to a monolith. On the contrary, diversity is the realizing its goals. the needs of Kial Yisroel. strength of Orthodoxy." The revered Rosh Other speakers also reflected on the diver­ Among the other rabbinic dignitaries and Yeshiva of Mesivta Torah Vodaath added: sity of Agudath Israel's broad constituency: Yeshiva deans who graced the center table of "Our efficacy, however, lies in our unity chairman of the evening was Rabbi Avrohon1 the three-tier dais were: Rabbi Shlomo under Torah. The various shades of our Chaim Feuer, dean of the Mesivta of Greater Bergman (Bnei Brak), Rabbi Yekusiel Bitters­ backgrounds and our lifestyles are only as Miami, Florida, who praised the organization feld (Mesivta Be'er Shmuel), Rabbi Mendel meaningful as is our allegiance to Torah. All and its leadership for tapping young talent Chodorow, Rabbi Simcha Bunim Ehrenfeld our problems must be viewed in the light or for key leadership positions. Rabbi Feuer (Yeshiva Chasan Sofer), Rabbi Elya Fischer our Torah ideals and be resolved accord­ introduced two young spokesmen who each (Gerer Kollel), Rabbi Joshua Fishman (Torah ingly." represented two new areas of Agudath Israel Umesorah), Rabbi Naftali Friedler (Ner The venerable sage declared: "How fortu­ activities: a recent Iranian emigre who was Israel, Toronto), Rabbi Gavriel Ginsburg nate we are that the diverse elements of Jewry absorbed at an American yeshiva through the (Yeshiva Chafetz Chaim), Rabbi Yeruchem have been banded together under Torah by efforts of an Agudath Israel program, and a Gorelik (Yeshiva Zichron Moshe), Rabbi Agudath Israel-which is the handiwork of Russian youngster who was prepared to Naftali Halberstam (), Rabbi Shneur the Torah leadership of the past seventy enter a Mishna class in a Brooklyn yeshiva Kotler (, Lakewood), years. Under Agudath Israel, innovative pro­ by JEP, Agudath Israel's reach-out program. Rabbi Levi Krupenia (Yeshivas Kamenitz), grams of Chessed, Torah support and A high point of the evening was the pre­ Rabbi Isaac Lewin (Agudath Israel World Hatz.alah of every kind have been launched, sentation of Agudath Israel's awards to the Organization), Rabbi Binyomin Paler all under the close guidance of our genera­ evening's guests of honor by Rabbi Moshe (Yeshiva Mkor Chaim), Rabbi Yisroel Per­ tion's Torah scholars. The dynamo that Sherer, executive president of the organiza­ kowski (Bais HaTalmud), Rabbi Yaakov Per­ drives these undertakings is the diversity of tion: Hagon Rav Memorial low (Noveminsker Rebbe, Rosh Yeshivas Agudath Israel's constituency." Award for distinguished service to Torah was ), Rabbi Aaron The vast ballroom was filled with repre­ given to Schabse Sturm, a well-known lay Schechter (Mesivta Rabbi Chaim Berlin), sentatives of every walk of life, including leader of the Bobover community; the Rabbi Gedalia Schorr (Mesivta Torah yeS'hiva deans, Chassidic leaders, prominent "Shearis Hapleitoh Man of the Year" -Reb Vodaath), Rabbi (Yeshiva of Phila­ rabbinical figures, and lay leaders-among Elimelech Tress Memorial Award for delphia), and Rabbi Pinchas Teitz (Elizabeth, them professionals, members of the legisla­ exemplary service was awarded to Berish N.J.). (Listed in alphabetical order.) tive scene, businessmen, and representatives Zolty, a Polish-born active leader of the Chairman of the dinner was Mr. Louis of the academe-all who identify with the Toronto Orthodox community; and the Glueck, a prominent lay leader who heads ideals of Agudath Israel. "Moreinu Yaakov Rosenheim Memorial the Commission on Social Services of Agu­ The gathering also heard a stirring address Award" for distinguished service to Agudath dath Israel of America. The dais tables in­ by Rabbi Michel Twerski of Milwaukee, a Israel was bestowed upon Abraham Halpern, cluded the leaders of numerous educational scion of a celebrated Chassidic dynasty, who a young Israeli-born member of a family institutions of all levels throughout North challenged the members of the august rabbi- with a long association with Agudath Israel, America.

The Jewish O!>server I May-]ur.e, 1979 Sixth World Congress Agudath Israel Hails "Definition of Death" Bill Defeat of Agudath Israel Jerusalem Jan. 7-13 The Health Committee of. the New York Agudath Israel of America contacted the top State Assembly was commended by leaders of the New York State Legislature, Agudath Israel of America forNew York as well as all 22 members of the Assembly State Assembly was commended by Health Committee to alert them to the Agudath Israel of America for rejecting two implications of this legislation for Orthodox bills which would have defined death as the Jews. cessation of brainwaves. The Commission Dr. Fryshman declared: "Since 1975 on Legislation and Civic Action of Agudath Agudath Israel has thwarted the efforts of Israel, chaired by Dr. Bernard Fryshman, the medical lobby to define death through has been fighting efforts in Albany to legislation, through bills introduced in legislate the definition of the time of death, various forms in each legislative session. on the grounds that "issues which are so Agudath Israel also could not accept the JERUSALEM-Thousands of Orthodox deeply interfaced with religious and ethical narrowed down version of Bill A. 5309, rabbinic and lay leaders from every part of implications cannot be dictated by although it narrows its application to those the world are expected to participate in the government." who signed away their body as an Sixth Knessia Gedola {World Congress} of Two bills on this subject had been intro­ anatomical gift, because it could possibly be the Agudath Israel World Organization, duced in the current session of the legisla­ utilized as legislative intent, for all general which will take place here in the huge Bin­ ture, relating to a patient on a respirator. circumstances. The organization will yanei HaUma, from January 7-13, 1980. According to Bill A. 7104 a doctor can pro­ continue being on the altert on this crucial They will join the top leadership of nounce the person dead if in his opinion he issue religious Jewry in Israel in evaluating experienced "a total and irreversible cessa­ current positions taken by independent tion of total brain function." Bill A. 5309, ASTRONOMY IN THE Orthodox Jewry in the Holy Land and essentially establishes the same determina­ BABYLONIAN TALMUD internationally, and chart a blueprint for the tion of death, but limits it to a person who future course of the Agudist world willed his body to medical research (known by Selig Brodetsky movement. as an anatomical gift). Such a determination 2nd Edition ~~~!!!!!!!llli is unacceptable to Orthodox Jews, for Send $2.50 (incl. post etc.) Please save whom ordinary "brain death" is not the to Ph. Feldheim, Inc. for future referenci:. final consideration according to Halacha; Jewish "pulling the plug" on the respirator under 96 E. Broadway, NY, NY 10002 such circumstances would be forbidden for or to Kesser Torah a religious Jew. 1522-54 Street Youth Library Agudath Israel charged that if the bills 1353-51 Street were ever to pass in their present form, Brooklvn, NY 11219 Brooklyn, N.Y. 11219 without even including an "exemption clause" granting the next of kin the right to {212) 435·4711 object on religious grounds, it would be a NEW LIBRARY HOURS flagrant violation of the religious freedom GIRLS rights which our nation has traditionally Sunday: ...... , ..... 11:30-5:00 upheld. To assure the defeat of these latest Tuesday ...... 4:30-8:00 bills, the Commission on Legislation of Thursday: ...... 4:30-8:00 BOYS Sunday: ...... 5:30-8:00 Monday: ...... , .... 4:30-8:00 Wednesday: ...... 4:30-8:00 Friday: ...... , ..... 12:00-3:00 Class visils & day ,._amp groups an' w"'kome al o1hn !!mf'S by Hppoinlnwnl nnly We hav"' Hdded H varied fi!ms1rip cnlleclion whu:h cHn !w viewed by dHSS<'S nnd dny c,unps v1s1tin)l the library. We nn• f!H!hning !rnck-issuPs ,,f various puiodirnls and binding them lo enlitrgi~ our periodh:it!S section. If you hitvl' ;rny magtt1.inf's nr 1ournitls of !Pw1sh inlHl'Sl. pleas!' r;dl or wri11,. W" itrP prep;1ring a o:ompnhensive {Torah. 623 CORTE l YOU ROAD lec1ures. music, el!'.) lape !ihr<1ry. !f ~·ol! r.an (Off OCEAN PKWY) IPnd us your cnlleclinns fm· duplicating 8Jt00KL'f'N. NY 11218 purpost>S or 111 bi' of assislan'"' in an~· p1n;s1b!P way plP

The Jewish Observer I May-June, 1979 57th National Convention Inflation Hits Hard at Orthodox Jewish Unemployed of Agudath Israel Called for November 22-25 A random study of more than 100 unem­ husbands and their families. When students ployed Orthodox Jews who applied to Project are forced to leave the Kole!, Project COPE, An in-depth analysis of the course taken COPE, the career guidance and job training after consultation with their Roshei Yeshiva, by independent Orthodox Jewry on all agency of Agudath Israel of America, points often trains them in various careers or places major Jewish issues will take place, under to inflation as a major reason for the con­ them directly into jobs. Discussing this the guidance of the venerable Torah sages tinued high rate of joblessness in this com­ population, Rabbi Lubinsky stressed that who comprise the Moetzes Gedolei munity. The findings of the study show that "were it not for ravaging inflation, the pres­ HaTorah, at the 57th annual convention of despite the recent improved job market in sures on the students would not have been so Agudath Israel of America over the three New York City, Orthodox Jews with their great." day weekend of November 22-25, it was traditional larger families and higher living • Another hardship group discussed in the announced by Rabbi Chaskel Besser, costs, are unable to take advantage of some of study consists of Orthodox Jews with large member of the organization's Presidium. the new job openings because the entry level families who are underemployed or whose The three day confab, which will take place of the salary scale is below subsistence. In income falls short of family needs. A number at the Rye Town Hilton in Port Chester, announcing the study, Rabbi Menachem of these people are either employed in low­ New York, is expected to attract over 1,000 Lubinsky, director of Project COPE, said that paying government positions or are teachers delegates and 2,000 guests who will join in his agency has opened a special desk to deal in the Jewish educational system where the various public sessions. with such hardship cases. salaries have generally not kept up with in­ The annual convention of Agudath Israel, According to the announcement, the study flation. As is the case with the Kole! students, which is one of the most colorful gatherings points to several groups of Orthodox Jews COPE has retrained many of them in new on the American Jewish scene, will bring who have been particularly hard hit by the careers. together rabbinic and lay leaders of Ortho­ vicious cycle of inflation: • The study also lists Orthodox Jewish small dox Jewry from all walks of life to deliberate • Students leaving the Kulel (post-graduate businessmen and professionals who can no on a broad range of crisis issues, covering yeshiva study) with large families. While the longer rely on their previous occupations as every area of Jewish concern in the United income of working wives with fellowship being hard hit. The decline of small busi­ States, Israel and globally. In addition, a stipends from the institutions do somehow nesses in many areas has left many without detailed report of the many-faceted sustain the students during the early years of sufficient means of support. Similarly, pro­ activities of Agudath Israel of America is marriage, the increased size of the family fessionals facing altered job-market condi­ rendered at this occasion, enabling all the puts an immediate strain on the financial sta­ tions are also seeking career changes. participants to join in studying these bility of the family. As a result, many In summarizing the findings of the study, activities and planning the Orthodox Jewish students who normally would have con­ the Agudath Israel leaders point to the "con~ coalition movement's future expansion tinued their studies for several additional tinued pressure of the myth of universal course. years, are forced to enter the job market pre­ Jewish affluence." The COPE statement con­ This year's convention will include the maturely. The forced transition also results cludes: "Because Jewish poverty and unem­ biennial task of electing a new in the diverting of planned careers in Jewish ployment is not concentrated in self­ administration for the organization. Also, education or communal work to more lucra­ contained communities as is the case with the issues which will be tackled at the Sixth tive business endeavors. other ethnic groups, the enormity of the Knessia Gedola (World Congress) of the In response, the Project COPE thrust has problems is not easily visible. However, the international Agudist movement will be been to assist working women toward better sum total of dozens of isolated pockets does ventilated at this convention. paying careers to help support their student make for an enormous problem. The future direction of COPE's plans and programs will MACHON TORAH MEIRAH in large measure aim at dealing with this 17 Tewksbury Drive, Prestwich, Manchester, Lanes. problem area.''

Works by Rabbi Meir Meiri ?"~T Very diligent Ben-Torah greatly desires to We take great pleasure in offering for sale the following books continue his studies in dire need of a Zevu­ by the late renowned Author and Scholar, Rabbi Meir Meiri: lun. If wi1ling and able, reply to Jewish Observer, Box 86. EZRAT NASHIM, Vol. 3. l"M ,O'llll niTY This volume is a key to the many problems arising out of the impact of present-day conditions on Marriage and Divorce: Civil Marriages: Gittin al T'nai by a soldier before joining the ">'VJ .. Forces: the Agunah problem in the future: Kiddushin a! T'nai: the status of the educated deaf-mute in Jewish Law. All these N,,,> 't\,~ problems are dealt with by the learned author with caution and l!i)l('Jll\)l),,l)-jt l erudition, and Formularies are appended in connection with ""AUG.5-AUG.16 ~ each subject. 10 Dollars Vol. 3. Lakewood, This is a truly Encyclopaedic work, and is of an exception­ ally high standard as regards content, style and method of :in riir.i :>":ii., pin ,Mr.:ir 'oo presentation. P'Y .,,,Y"lV K"~''lV ,?Yooiiv :inr.iiv ,, :ii:ir.i CHUMASH TORAH MEIRAH ~i:'l ?11 O'iiY'lV 3 Vols. $18 + p & p. Mi~i-1; ,;-nJ·n~ivMiJ K"O'?lV .:ri~ :i"? ., :ii:io

J8 The ]ewi1>h Observer/ Moiy-]une, 1979

.A. the Northern tier of Jerusalem, which is (Chebiner Yeshiva), Rabbi Avrohom Yaakov Moetzes Gedo lei HaTorah threatening the atmosphere in newer reli­ Zaleznik {Yeshiva Eitz Chaim), Rabbi Simcha Calls for gious neighborhoods adjacent to this site. Zissel Broyde {Yeshiva Chevron), Rabbi Stepped-Up The Moetzes decided to accept Jerusalem Nissan Karelitz (Kole! Chazon Ish), Rabbi Action on Abortion Law Mayor Teddy Kollek's most recent offer to (Yeshiva Beer halt construction of the stadium at its present Yaakov), Rabbi Pinchas Menachem Alter location. This, in effect, is a capitulation from (Yeshiva Sfas Emes), Rabbi Yochanan Sofer JERUSALEM, July 9-At a meeting of the Kollek's previous stand, which caused the (Erlauer Rav), Machnovker Rebbe, Mozhit­ Israeli Moetzes Gedolei Ha Torah (Council of Agudist membership of the Municipality to zer Rebbe, and the Sadigerer Rebbe. Torah Sages) of Agudath Israel on Sunday, threaten to leave the ruling committee if July 8, the policy-making body adopted a plans were not changed. The Mayor's new KARKA IN ISRAEL resolutior calling the Knesset's delay in offer involves a guarantee that any new con­ abolishing Paragraph 5 of the current Abor­ struction site for the stadium would be away Take advantage of the opportunity tion Law (which permits abortion on demand from the populated areas of Jerusalem. to purchase cemetery plots in for "medical, social or economic reasons") a The Moetzes session also urged the Eretz Yisroel in Mifgash Shimshon "breach of the Knesset coalition agreement Agudist Knesset Deputies to do all in their near Yerushalayim through our with Agudath Israel," and instructed the power to ascertain the return of ancient newly established Agudist Knesset Deputies to accelerate their remains to their original burial grounds near CHEVRAH OSEH CHESED efforts to assure abolition, it was learned Jericho from where they were taken. These OF AGUDATH ISRAEL from informed sources. The Knesset Depu­ remains have been stored in the Tel Aviv Membership in the Chevra en­ ties were asked to report in one month on any University's Archeological Department for title; one to all benefits which progress on this matter. The Moetzes meet­ the past three years. In addition, the Moetzes accompany the services of a ing which was chaired jointly by the Pono­ called for government assistance in meeting Chevra Kadisha ;tnd interment. vezher Rosh Yeshiva-Rabbi Eliezer Schach the religious needs of Soviet immigrants cur­ When you purchase a plot from and the Gerer Rebbe, Rabbi Simcha Bunim rently in Italy; and issued a proclamation the Chevra Oseh Chesed of Agu­ Alter, was well attended by prominent calling for financial help for the Shomrei dath Israel, you are supporting the Roshei Yeshivos, Rabbanim and Chassidic Shmittah. many Agudist activities especially . In addition to Rabbi Schach and the Gerer the Pirchei and Boos activities as At the same session, the Moetzes discussed Rebbe, the meeting was attended by Rabbi well as a Free Loan Fund in Israel. the current crisis surrounding the projected Sholom Noach Brozovsky (Slonimer For an application and information ca!i: Olympic-sized Sports Stadium planned for Yeshiva), Rabbi Baruch Shimon Shneursohn (2121 964-1620

at the I ~RYE TOWN HILTON THE KOLLEL INSTITUTE OF GREATER DETROIT 699 Westchester Avenue Town of Rye, New York 10573 IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE OPENING OF REGISTRATION FOR THE SECOND ANNUAL TORAH STUDY RETREAT FOR FAffilLIES A week of Toroh study ond recreotion for the entire family August 25th th1u Septembe1 2nd At BARKERS HURON HAVEN RESORT, TAWAS CITY, mlCHIGAN Garden Weddings (2- 1.12 hours north of Detroit) • "'Shiurim" and classes for men, ladies ond children Bar Mitzvah Weekends • Spacious modern facilities with all conveniences • Torah environment for learning and recreation Magnificent Country Setting • Private sand~ beach on lake Huron • All sports and recreational facilities FOR FURTHER INFORmATION CONTACT, RABBI E. B. FR!!DmAN

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The Jewish Observer I May-]wne, 1979 39 ''OlV n:> ,~,,,,, Q"'On 1'1\1't1Vni JU'O ).12VIM '1lW ri:iip The Torah Leadership t:1'll1:tn1:1 '?n 1l:iliM:a rin:tl;n' 2'').l'!l'O ,,b1w ,1i:ii ,n,_,,.,,n, .M.'1'11i'_1 ;,:i M1!111:1r1 nM cnp; n:inH:i ,,,,,,_ v, ).11' "'' nu112 ,tl1w '' ,n1"21 c:i,; 11tlV .1tl)ltl ~'tnn; ,,,1,1 c:i,;v pn O'Dtti of Israel Olli1 l;oy u? iriii.1 "tii.til .,,,,,,, "n1·~~1v .. C"K11ll'ti1 c•::iiW"m n1•n "l:t:>i ,CiTIV c•i11•11 ,, lVDn'.:t •?::i ,nn::i?il:> Il'Y'::llV Il"'lVil!Y:l i17'W? ,C•Jiw c•:iiw•:i c•R17;on ;w 111Xl::l1? ,11 ;,,XI;) Cl'i'::l Cil? 11JiD::li1 '"Y CV'l.i. ill 1i1X? Issues "11'll'::i.lV 'i?.lilV tl'~'il?M'i ':?Ii~ T::>i?.l" 11'!3'::lWil 111'1JW jl'Y., TIXD.1? ,Yl'Ol ,,,,y ,i1:li1il::l ii:-o•nR17 ,111"7 il'il'':' il"tY:i C":iin~i ,ci:i:n ;nv:i ,riN:rn::iw •w1p1J 111Y 11:ini;;1 ·'"' n•Y":11v? n•li'•:nzn~ Keren Hashvi'is ,an'O 01j:'tl 11:t:i ,,M,'(I' 'l2 1l'nM 11M O'>HI 1lM 1'' i112n;1 .1t :i:ai n1l!t.>2. c:i,n1tl1in:i t:1'.on1w n1,n11 ·:i ;"12'.i> ''2 ,.,,,,Q:S Proclamation

::ti;:i~ \)., 1H~)IJ'I ,1l'lil'UOl ll•~:u ii!l11,•!l \llil::t "JVIN. ,J'l•)l•::t'i.I J'li•n't' :'ll!lll The Shmittah year-5740-is approaching, and the ·11'N U1ill' n1V10 J'll-<'!l!l HJ'll!IHU J'IN. tillers of the soil at Moshau Komemius and Kfar Gideon prepare to put their tools away, in keeping with the Torah's command, "And on the Seventh Year it shall be a Sabbath year for the land ... you shall not sow your field ... nor prune your vineyards" (Vayikra 25.4). These people are ready to face the year ahead with courage and faith, in keeping with the title bestowed upon them by Chazal, "Heroes of might, performing His word." Shmittah is a year of spiritual triumph, but the material hardships are many. In the hope of softening these difficulties, the Torah leadership of Eretz Yisroel has proclaimed the establish­ ment of the Keren Hashuiis Fund to provide material sustenance to the keepers of Shmittah; and the organiza­ tion of the Merkaz le'chaklaim Shomrei Shoi'is-a central R' (Gerer Rebbe) I A' Avrohom Weinberg education bureau for dissemination of factual and inspi­ (S!onimer Aebbe) I A' Avrohom Y. H. Twerski (Machnovke Rebbe) I rational information regarding Shmittah observance, to R' Avrohom Eiger (Lubliner Rebbe) I R' Avrohom Landa (Strikover aid the growing number of farmers who are interested in Aebbe) I R' Avrohom Y. Friedman (Sadigerer Aebbe) I R' Avrohom Shmittah observance. Yissachor Englard (Radziner Rebbe) I A' Avrohom Menachem Dan­ The proclamation (facsimile appears on left) empha­ ziger (Alexander Rebbe) IR' Eliezer M. Schach (Ponovezh Yeshiva) /R' Dovid Pevarski (Ponovezh Yeshiva) I R' Yehuda Tzedaka {Porat sizes that by becoming partners with the heroic citizens Yoseph) I A' Chaim M. Y. Shapiro (Giral Rav) I R' Yochanan Twerski of Komemius and Kfar Gideon, we can hasten the final (Rachmistrivker Rebbe) I R' Yichiel Rabinowitz (Bia!e Rebbe) I R' redemption in our time. It is signed by leading rabbis, Yichiel Miehe! Feinstein (Yeshiva and Ko!el Bais Yehudah) IR' Yaakov Roshei Yeshiva and Chassidic Rebbes. Landau (Rav, Bnei Brak) IR' Yaakov Kanievski (Steipler, Bnei Brak) I R' Yosef Sholom Elyashuv (Jerusalem) I R' Yissacher Dov Rokeach (Belzer Aebbe) I A' (Yeshiva Gur Arye) I R' Yaakov Yoseif Weiss ( Aebbe) I A' Yaakov Y. 8. Rosenbaum (Nadverne Aebbe) I A' Meir Chodosh (Mashgiach-Chevron) I R' Meshulum For further information write to, Zyshe Twerski (Chernobler Rebbe) I R' Moshe Hager (Vizhnitzer Rebbe) I R' M. M. Biderman (Lellever Rebbe) I R' Moshe Shmuel Keren Hashviis Shapiro (Yeshiva Beer Yaakov) /A' Pinches Menachem Alter (Yeshiva c/o Agudath Israel of America Stas Emes) I R' Shlomo Zalmen Auerbach (Yeshiva ) I R' 5 Beekman Street Sholom Noach Brozovsky (Slonimer Yeshiva) I A' Shmuel Elya Taub New York. NY 10038 (Mozhitzer Rebbe) I R' Shmuel Halevi Wesner (Rev-Zichron Meir)