The Late Rosh Hayeshiva of Ner as remembered by his talmidim

The list consists qf hundreds qf names, and all of them have two things in common-perhaps the two are really one: They are talmidim (disci­ ples) qf Ner Israel-married men who had studied under Yaakov Yitz­ chok Ruderman '"~l.And each and every one cannot be reached by telephone for several hours every day. They are all keeping their appointed times for learning. * * * Retumingfrom a recent convention qf Umesorah, the National Organi­ zation for Hebrew Day Schools, Rabbi Ruderman remarked that he was amazed and gratified to have met so many Ner Israel alumni involved in chinuch (Torah education}, virtuallyfrom border to border.from coast to coast, in other lands. ... * * * Unyielding dedication to studying and teaching Torah is a trait that is not easily learned. Yet somehow those who were in the immediate presence of the late Rosh qf Ner Israel, Rabbi Ruderman, were changed. They learned to love Leaming, and theyfeel compelled to educate others in that same love.

The Jewish Obseroer, November 1987 7 Rabbi Yaakov Yitzchok Rudennan was among the pioneers who came to America before World War II to strivefor the impossible and achieve it: planting the seeds of Torah in the treife American soil.

A Love So PrQfound than a half century living the life of deepening their interest, and broad­ Torah, treasuring the printed word ening their horizons. He constantly n the surface it may seem of Torah, absorbing it indelibly in focused their attention and aware­ strange. Rabbi Ruderman his mind, imprinting it permanently ness on tli.e depth and breadth and O was thought by many to be a onto his heart-he succeeded in interrelationship of all of Torah. He shy man. He was obviously in love transmitting his dedication through was always involved in a kushya with his seforim, scholarly In mien, his love for the young men who came (challenging question). He explained soft-spoken, not readily recognized to study under him: Five bachurim that he used questions as memory to be the type of man who could mold who joined him in in 1933 keys with which to remember the hosts of others 'in his image, espe­ ... 600 talmidim of Ner details of the Gemora. Thus no mat­ cially when those others were young lsraeljoining thousands of alumni, ter which Gemora one mentioned, men who had been brought up in who wept at his passing In 1987. he always had a penetrating query or the permissive, fun-loving, self-cen­ His talmidim observed a comment at his fingertips to lend an tered society of mid-twentieth cen­ whose encyclopedic knowledge of insight to the sugya (topic), citing tury America. Yet by example-more, Shas Bavli, Yerushalmi, Rishonim, one reference after another, often by contagion-having spent more Poskim, and Teshuvos from obscure responsa and forgot­ ( and its vast literature of ten commentaries. He lived with his This biographical appreciation is based primarily commentaries and halachic res­ questions.and was often observed on material furnished by Rabbi Sheftel Neuberger, Ram in the Beis HamidrashofYeshiva Ner Israel. ponsa) set a lofty standard to strive with his lips constantly moving as and a nephew of the late Rosh Hayeshlva. Addi­ for. He constantly challenged his he was consistently absorbed in tional sources of information Include Rabbi David talmidim to bring proof from one learning. This total immersion in Cohen (Cong. Gvul Yaavetz, Brooklyn), Yeruchem Lax, Moshe Asher Reines, and several articles that Gemora to a seemingly unrelated Talmud gave rise to many amusing appeared in Yated Ne'eman. issue, stimulating lively discussion, incidents of apparent absentminded

8 The Jewish Observer, November 1987 behavior. Rarely was his sleep at falo to also visit Rabbi Zuckerman. "I know," replied the doctor, "butit night not disturbed by an unans· They did, and remained overnight, was Kedushin that we brought to wered kushya. engrossed in Talmudic discussion you." One could readily believe the story until five in the morning. The last public function that he told how, as a bachur, Rabbi Rud· In 1986, the Rosh Hayeshiva un· attended was a Siyum that the resi· erman got hold of a copy of a just· derwent successful surgery to res· dent physician in Yeshiva Lane had published volume of Ohr Somayach tore vision in one of his eyes. During made with his chavrusa. Although on Zemanim for one night's perusal. recuperation. he found the hospital physically weak, the Rosh Haye· He had no access to a lamp, so he atmosphere oppressive. Trytng to shiva-also motivated by his sense went through the entire sefer that convince the doctor, who had once of appreciation to the doctor-found night, by the light of the moon. His learned in a yeshiva, that his recov· the strength to participate in the poor vision became further damaged ery was complete, he asked that a Torah simcha. from the experience-but he was Gemora be brought to him. He then able to quote the sefer copiously for proceeded to read the entire page. To the remainder of his life. his dismay the doctor refused to Torah Pioneering Days His love for Torah and for his tal· sign the early release. "But I have midim went hand in hand. When· just read an entire page of Kesuvos," abbi Yaakov Yitzchok Rud· ever a talmid asked him a stimulat· the Rosh Hayeshiva pleaded. erman was among the pio· ing kushya, or offered a workable R neers who came to America svora (rationale), his face would before World War II to strive for the radiate with delight. More often than impossible and achieve it: planting not, he would cite commentaries the seeds ofTorah in the treijeAmer· that deal with the sugya, and quote ican soil. He arrived on these shores their opinions. And then he would in 1931, to assume a position under point out the implications of the his father-in-law, Rabbi Shefte! insight and how they affect other Kramer~""' who was Menahel Ru· issues. When a talmid had the good chani of the Yeshiva of New Haven fortune to say something that that had moved to Cleveland. In 1933. pleased him, he would become ec· he struck it out on his own, as the static. Many had the embarrassing Rav of the Tiferes Yisroel Shul in experience of being reminded by the Baltimore, with the understanding Rosh Hayeshiva, years later, of a that he could use the facilities for a chiddush that they had said and yeshiva. Five bachwim from Cleve· had long since forgotten, but he had land joined him in Baltimore. treasured. There were a few staunch support· Every Ner Israel graduate knew ers of the Yeshiva: the general di· that the first question he would face The yeshiva'sfirst horne. 4411 Garrison BouleuarcL when encountering the Rosh Haye· shiva was, "Nu, vos lerenstu (what are you learning)"? He would not proceed further in the conversation until this question was properly re· solved. He told each talmid when he left the Yeshiva that regardless of what he did to earn a living, it was absolutely essential that he study at least two hours daily, and he de· mantled it. During the late 50's and early60's, when a Ner Israel branch was opened in Toronto (today, an independent institution), Rabbi Ruderman would travel by train from Baltimore to Buffalo, where he "talked in learn· ing" with the local Rav. Rabbi Dov Berish Zuckerman, a profound tal· mid chacham; and then continue by car to Toronto. He once advised the Toronto bachurim who drove him back to his train connection in Buf·

Ihe Jewish Observer, November J 987 9 Each expansion Qf the Yeshiva took place with a leap Qffaith. As the Rosh Hayeshiva said, "lf we wait until we raise the requiredfunds, nothing will ever happen."

The present yeshiva campus in Pikesville. . mate, however, was unreceptive at the bachurim, frequently had to cir­ Baltimore-a fortitude for which he best. Only a handful of senior yeshi­ cumvent local opposition to their frequently expressed his eternal vas existed on the American conti­ Yeshiva activities, sometimes ad­ gratitude. nent at that time. Coupled with the dressing the Rebbetzin by a code The Rosh Hayeshiva and his deep economic depression, the situ­ name when talking to her on the tele­ Rebbetzin Feige left one child, Reb­ ation was precarious. The incredible phone in the presence of hostile betzln Chana Weinberg, and were mesiras nefesh of Rebbetzin Rud­ neighbors. The Rebbetzin also served blessed with six grandchildren and erman i1"Y• in mobilizing the women as a constant source of strength to numerous great-grandchildren who of the community for the Yeshiva the Rosh Ha yeshiva. When a presti­ were privileged to surround the Rosh overcame Immense adversity. The gious position in a New York yeshiva Hayeshiva during his last years. ladies, who hosted showers where was offered to the Rosh Hayeshiva, Their son-in-law, Rabbi Yaakov people donated food and linens for she encouraged him to remain in Weinberg, "'"""'"" is today the suc­ cessor to Rabbi Ruderman as Rosh *In 1924, Rabbi Ruderman bad married Feige Kramer, the oldest of five daughters bom to Ha yeshiva. Rabbi Sheftel and Devorah Kramer. Rebbetzin Devorah was one of four daughters of the The Yeshiva underwent a steady renowned Rabbi Shraga Feivel and Golda Frank. in whose house talmidim of Rabbi Yisroel but slow growth in those early years, Salanter spent Chodesh EluL A measure of Reb Shraga's greatness can be discerned from the yet Rabbi Ruderman remained fact that when he died at the age of 42, the Gadol Had.or, Rabbi YitzchokElchonon Spector'.:l"::>t participated in the tahara. His widow, Rebbetzin Golda. arranged all the shidduchim for her committed to the dream that a great daughters. Rabbi '":::n, Rosh Hayeshiva of Slobodka, Rabbi Isser Torah center would rise in Balti­ Zalman Meltzer '"::It, of , and later Yeshiva Eitz Chaim of . and Rabbi Boruch more. Rabbi Yehud.ah Horowitz '"~n. ofAlexot and Slobodka, were the other sons-in-law. For more details, see Rabbi Chaim Shapiro's "Torah Pioneers" in JO, May 75, and Chaya Baumwolspiner•s "'"'"'"' related that in the late 30's, .. Rebbetzin Chaya Peret Kotler Fl"»," in JO May '87. when he was serving as Rav in the

10 The Jewish Observer, November 1987 Shearith Israel shul of Baltimore. Rosh Hayeshiva's success in creat­ Rabbi Ruderman once pointed out a ing a Yeshiva in America with the large multi-story apartment house flavor of the yeshivas in to him as suitable for the Yeshiva. In that he had left behind. response to Rabbi Schwab's sur­ Each expansion of the Yeshiva prised amusement. the Rosh Haye­ took place with a leap of faith.As the shiva exclaimed, "Do you doubt that Rosh Hayeshiva said. "If we wait we will have a Yeshiva the size of until we raise the required funds. Slobodka here?" nothing will ever happen." Building The early growth of the Yeshiva a new Beis Hamidrash and dormi­ was intensified by the recognition tory in 1943-during the height of and support of prominent Rabbo­ World War II. with the shortages of nim Rabbi Shraga Feivel Mendlo­ men and material-was almost witz '""· the Menahel of Mesivta miraculous. In addition to serving Torah Vodaath and unquestionably the many refugee students that come one of the most important figures in to Baltimore to learn, Yeshivas Ner the development of Torah in Amer­ Israel eventually became the prime bachurim Yeshiva for America's South and ica. recommended from The Ponovezher Rav, Rabbi Yoseif Kahaneman New York whom he thought would (center) with Rabbi Samson of Yeshiva Chefetz much of the West, as well as attract­ especially benefit from the Rosh Chaim inBaltimore(l.)andRabbiRuderman(r.J ing a number of students from the Hayeshiva. Among this group was at a gatheringforty years ago. New York metropolitan area. Rabbi Moshe Sherer, today presi­ long friend of the Rosh Hayeshiva. In the early 60's, Rabbi Ruderman dent of Agudath Israel of America. The early success of the Yeshiva established the Ner Israel Kolle], for Rabbi Yaakov Kamenetzky '""sent can be attributed to the Rosh Haye­ which he personally raised the funds. his sons from Toronto, a major dis­ shiva 's love for every ben Torah. The The Kolle] had a profound effect on tance in those years, as did Rabbi Telzer Rosh Hayeshiva, Rabbi Mor­ both the Yeshiva and the communi­ Yehoshua Klavan '""· the Rav of dechai Gifter """''"' tells of having ty. On the one hand. the Beis Ha­ Washington D.C. Furthermore. when come to Baltimore from Europe for a midrash retained its best talmidim the Rosh Hayeshiva was ill, Rabbi visit, when the outbreak of World for many additional years, contri­ Klavan travelled from Washington to War II prevented him from returning butinggreatlyto the level oflearning say the daily shiur in his stead. to his beloved Telshe. Distraught of the entire Beis Hamidrash. In When the Yeshiva launched its and lonely. he found comfort in the addition, this established a pattern campaign to erect the Beis Hamid­ home of the Rosh Hayeshiva. To for young Torah families to settle in rash building on Garrison Boule­ provide him with encouragement, Baltimore, elevating all aspects of vard, the Rosh Hayeshiva travelled Rabbi Ruderman asked Rabbi Gifter the city's Jewish community, now to Cincinnati to enlist the apprecia­ to say chaburos (specialized lectures) one of the finest in North America. ble help of the legendary Rabbi Eli­ to a select group of talmidim. Rabbi During the middle sixties. the ezer Silver J"~'· who remained a life- Gifter tells of his elation over the Yeshiva's neighborhood was chang­ ing and was becoming increasingly With Rabbi G!fter (r.} in Camp Agudah. less suitable for the Yeshiva. The re­ location of this institution of over two hundred and fifty talmidim re­ quired over ten times as much money as the Yeshiva had ever raised in the past. Under the leadership of the Rosh Hayeshiva and the efforts of his brother-in-law, Rabbi Naftoli Neuberger. the Yeshiva's executive director, the Yeshiva moved. today occupying the largest Yeshiva com­ plex in the world, on its rural Pikes­ ville campus.

Background to Greatness e are, of course, eager to learn more about the back­ W ground of the man who achieved such greatness in Torah, and inspired so many others to strive

The Jewish Observer, November 1987 11 by heart. and as a result, mastered Seder Nashim and Nezikin (two of the Talmud's six sections) before Bar Mitzva. The reputation of the young illuy (genius) from Dolhinovsoon spread, and the talmidim of Slobodka, al­ ways on the lookout for exceptional bachurim, heard aboutYaakovYitz­ chok. A talmid of the saintly Alter of Slobodka, Rabbi Nosson Tsvi Finkel J"~l. convinced the young genius to come to Slobodka-un­ doubtedly a major milestone in his life. He often said that without the guidance of the Alter, he would have never developed anywhere near his potential. During World War One the Slo­ bodka Yeshiva fled eastward from the approaching German army, to Minsk. It was here that Rabbi Rud­ erman had the zechus to meet the In discussion with Rabbi Yaakov Kamenetzky. revered Rav of Brisk, Rabbi Chaim for greatness of their own. Knowl­ level of avoda and yiras Shomayim Soloveitchik J"~l. Unbeknown to edge of Rabbi Ruderman's early life (service to G-d). He recalled how his him, Reb Chaim recognized the is sketchy at best. He was born Shu­ father had struggled to put up his young illuy's great promise, and ar­ shan Purtm 5660 ( 1900) in Dolhinov, succa himself, only to have it col­ ranged that a wealthy acquaintance a small shtetl in the vicinity ofVilna. lapse. He struggled again and provide him with pocket money so He was the only son born after six again-refusing to enlist any help, that his learning not be adversely daughters, late in life, to Reb Yehuda so precious to him was the mitzva of affected by need. Rabbi Ruderman Leib and his wife Rebbetzin Sheina. building it by himself! only became aware of Reb Chaim's A year before his birth, an elderly Reb Yehuda Leib recognized his role in this support when it ceased childless Jew known simply as Reb son's prodigious talent and made a upon the passing of Reb Chaim. Yitzchok responded to Rebbetzin practice of awakeningyoungYaakov The Alter also showered the Sheina's request for a bracha that Yitzchok early every morning to teach youngster with an enormous amount she would have a son; but the elderly him Gemora before davening. He of attention. The future Chevron man added that she call the child was rewarded for every dajhe learned Rosh Hayeshiva, Rabbi Yechezkel Yitzchok. When the boy was born, Sarne ?•»1, one of the Alter's closest however, his motherwanled to name talmidim, was assigned to be his him Yaakov after her father. A "eltere bachur." she'eila was posed, and it was ruled Young Yaakov Yitzchok had a that he be given both names, Yaakov tremendous capacity for learning Yitzchok. (The source of this story is with hasmoda (diligence), but a total Rabbi Ruderman's illustrious cou­ inability to adhere to the Yeshiva's sin, Rabbi Yaakov Karnenetzky J">i, sedorim (schedule). He used to take who was named after the same per­ long walks durtng which he would son (his uncle). One ofReb Yaakov's chazer (review) entire tractates by earliest recollections was saying heart. ( He confided to a ta!mid that "Kriyas Shma" at the bedside of his on his regular afternoon strolls, he newborn cousin. Thus began a would chazer the entire Seder Na­ friendship that would span eight shim on the way to the next village, decades.) Seder Nezikin on the return.) The His father, Reb Yehuda Leib, was a Alter granted him the freedom to melamed, who knew Shas with study his own way as long as he Tosajos well. Rabbi Ruderman con­ achieved the goals that they agreed fided that although he may have upon. Although he had already com­ eclipsed his father in Torah learn­ pleted the en tire Shas by the time he ing, he could not even approach his Rabbi Yecheskel Sama was fourteen, they decided that he

12 The Jewish Observer, November 1987 Rabbi Ruderman often cautionedfaculty members Qf Ner Israel that dealing with bachurim is dinei nefashos-a matter Qf spiritual life and death, not to be taken lightly.

attempt to review the entire Talmud hear Rabbi Itzel (Peterburger) Blazer between Succos and Pesach that deliver a mussar schmuess (lecture year. When the Alter received a tele­ on ethical improvement). When the gram early that winter informing Alter later learned that some of his him of the death ofReb Yehuda Leib, students wept at the lecture, he rep­ he decided not to inform the youngs­ Iimanded them, "Reb Itzel should ter so that it would not interfere with move you to think, not to cry!" this undertaking. Someone objected "The Alter guided us in weighing to the Alter, "But Yaakov Yitzchok our choices between several good will miss saying Kaddish for his acts, evaluating them and then set­ father!" tingprtolities," the Rosh Hayeshiva "It will be a greater melit for his recalled. "He once met me in the father's neshama," replied the Alter. street after I had purchased a new "if he finishes Shas. Ifhe develops to pair of tzitziswith money I had care­ his potential, it will be the equivalent fully saved. My face must have been of many Kaddeishtm" aglow, because he asked me why I Only after Pesach, when Yaakov was so happy. When I told him, he Yitzchok had completed his goal, did asked me if the three dollars could the Alter tell his talmid the tragic not have been better spent in sup­ tidings. port of a starving family." The Alter qf Slobodka Rabbi Ruderman entertained Leamingjrom the Alter's Approach seeming very devout. When the Rosh plans to join a group of illuim that Hayeshiva told the Alter of his ad­ was leaving Slobodka to study under eb Yaakov Yitzchok was miration over this metamorphosis. Rabbi Itzele (Ponovezer) Rabinowitz keenly aware of the special the Alter commented that the im­ J">i. Reb Itzele was reputed to have R consideration that he was provement was only skin deep and it one of the most phenomenal minds receiving and that it placed an would not last. Unfortunately, the of his generation, but was too re­ enormous responsibility upon him Alter was correct. The Rosh Haye­ moved from his talmidim to guide to succeed. He also realized that the shiva observed and developed an them in those turbulent times. When Alter was a master mechanech uncanny ability of his own to see Rabbi Ruderman told theAlterofhis (pedagogue) and that he could gain through externals, to the core of an intentions, the Alter took him to the much not only from how he was individual, and was rarely taken in window and pointed to a nearby being treated, but from observing by those who were less than genuine. river. telling him: 'You can throw how the Alter dealt with others and A visitingrabbinicaldignitarywas yourself into the liver here. Why how he reacted to situations. called to the Torah in Slobodka, and bother travelling elsewhere to Later in life, as Rosh Hayeshiva, pronounced the bracha slowly, with drown?" he emulated the Alter's approach to an unusual display of feeling. Young The Alter's harsh premonition talmidim spending hours on end Yaakov Yi tzchok shared his awe over proved true. The poverty there was with individuals in discussions un­ the bracha with the Alter, who said. extreme, and Reb ltzele was totally related to their studies, guiding them 'Yes, very admirable-if he also says immersed in his studies, oblivious in molding their midos (character) it that way every morning, durtng to the boys' needs. Before long all but and developing their hashkojas the Birchos Hashachar... ." two of that initial group strayed, not ha'chaim (outlook on life). While emotions cannot be denied, remaining bnet Toralt Appearances did not impress the the Alter taught that one must con­ The Alter rarely gave up on a tal­ Alter. A bachur known not to be trol one's emotions rather than be mid and was loath to expel anyone especially fastidious in religious subject to their whims. On a particu­ from the Yeshiva Rabbi Ruderman's matters had left Slobodka for another lar occasion, a group of his talmidim roommate exhibited a potential of yeshiva and returned a year later. took advantage of an opportunity to exerting a negative influence on him.

The Jewish Observer, November 1987 13 Rather than tell Rabbi Ruderman are prominent Ramim (teachers of ships with outstanding Torah per­ outright to disassociate himself from Talmud) who waged that battle and sonalities. He would recall with joy, "I his friend, the Alter first invited prevailed, thanks to the Rosh Ha­ had the zechus to spend time with Rabbi Ruderman to move into his yeshiva. the Kovno Rav, Rabbi Avrohom Ka­ own house because all the children Ten years ago, Rabbi Yaakov Ka­ hana Shapiro, the author of Dvar had already married and moved out. menetzky was invited to address a Avrohom! I experienced Shabbos Rabbi Ruderman recalled how, dur­ gathering in Lakewood marking the with Reb Lezer Minsker. which was ing this time, he was struck with a fiftieth Yahrzeit of the Alter, but like spending Shabbos with a mal­ severe case of dysentery, but a raging could not participate. He was quoted, ach (angel)!" winter storm prevented him from however, as saying that Rabbi Rud­ It was the Dvar Avrohom who had using the outdoor facilities. The Alter erman, who did speak, reflected the urged the Rosh Ha yeshiva, when he offered to keep the door to the house Alters personality more than did was in his early twenties, to write his open as long as Yaakov Yitzchok was any other surviving talmidim masterwork Avodas Levi. He later out, speaking to him all along "so he joined other contemporary Gedolim can find his way back"-but, in in praise of the sejefs contents and truth, simply to reassure him ... clarity of style. paternal devotion to the fullest. The The Kovno Rav, in tum, had the other bachur remained in the Ye­ youngYaakovYitzchok examine each shiva until the Rosh Hayeshiva, chapter of his sejer, Dvar Avrohom Rabbi Moshe Mordechai Epstein before publication. '""· expelled him during the Alter's During his visits with Gedo lei absence. Torah, nothing escaped his scrut­ Rabbi RudermaFJ often cautioned iny. He would relate with typical faculty members of Ner Israel that humility that as a young boy, he dealing with bachurtm is dinei ne­ spent some time in the house of jashos-a matter of spiritual life Rabbi , "with and death, not to be taken lightly. On freedom of the house as ifit were my occasion. other members of the own, oblivious of the true greatness hanhala (administration) of the Ye­ of Reb Chaim. But when Rabbi Ba­ shiva recommended dismissing a ruch Ber Lebowitz came to visit his problem bachur, but the Rosh Ha­ Rebbe, he would knock on the front yeshiva was adamant: one never door. trembling and perspiring be­ knows what the future holds. Per­ fore summoning enough courage to haps with a Iittle more patience, and enter the house." further exposure to the Torah's cor­ It was widely known that the Rosh rective powers, the young man would Hayeshiva was considered a "favor­ straighten out. By and large, his ite son" to these Gedolim position was vindicated. The Rosh Hayeshiva related that Many talmidim had come to Ner although he had received semicha Israel as refugees, or from troubled (ordination) from various Gedolim backgrounds, and found a home in he mostly cherished the one he re­ the Yeshiva, and a father in the Rosh ceived from Rabbi Meir Atlas, ""'· Hayeshiva. During the 30'sand 40's, father-in-law of Rabbi Elchonon the Rosh Hayeshiva's seder table Wasserman , .. ,n, because Rabbi Meir was crowded with talmidim who Atlas had received semicha from could not travel home for Pesach. At the Feet of Gedolei Torah Rav "Eizele Charif' ""'· who in Rabbi Shmuel Kamenetzky "'":"'"'· tum was a musmachof Rav ''.Abba le Rosh Hayeshiva in Philadelphia, awing on the Talmud's dic­ Posvler" ? 11 '.:ll~. who had received se­ was among the group, and recalls um that one can grow more micha from the Vilna Gaon himself. how the boys valued the experience, D from serving Torah scholars The Rosh Hayeshiva took particu­ how at home they felt with the Rosh than from scholarship, Rabbi Rud­ lar pride in being a link in this Hayeshiva and the Rebbetzin. erman emulated the Alter in seeking exalted chain of mesora. Those talmidim who chose to de­ close contact with senior Gedolei During his entire life, he conducted vote their lives completely to Torah Yisroel. Just as the Alter discussed himself as if his rabbeim were alive, study, and faced strong opposition matters or referred halachic prob­ constantly asking, 'What would the from parents, relied on the Rosh lems to Reb Meir Simcha of D\1nsk Alter do in this situation?" After Hayeshiva to intercede on their be­ ""'· Reb Chaim Brisker ""'· and many years in America. one of the half, and to provide the necessary Reb Chaim Ozer'""· Rabbi Ruder­ leading figures of the Conservative encouragement and support. There man also developed special relation- movement, his former roommate in

14 The Jewish Observer, November 1987 With Rabbi Kamenetzky. Rabbi . and Rabbi . n:>il., 01n:ll.

The incredible scope

Slobodka, requested an audience walked into his house expecting that yond consideration to sell the Ye· with the Rosh Hayeshiva, but the he would have to reintroduce him· shiva building to a different reli· Rosh Hayeshiva did not respond. self. Much to his surprise, Reb Chaim gious group, yet he felt that it might Once they met at a hotel and he Ozer rose in his place and exclaimed: be irresponsible of him to forego informed the Rosh Hayeshiva of his "The Dolhinover is here!" Reb Chaim such a huge sum for a community intention to visit him in his room. Ozer then stopped in the midst of purpose without consultation. He The Rosh Hayeshiva immediately his activities to devote himself fully posed the question to Rabbi Ab· packed his bags and left. Another to his young visitor. The Rosh Ha· ramsky who asked for time to con· time, while in Baltimore, the same yeshiva would make a point of dis· sider the issue, before he agreed leader sent a message requesting a playing similar respect to younger with the Rosh Hayeshiva. meeting. The Rosh Hayeshtva sent scholars, many years later. More re· Rabbi Abramsky, in tum, sent back word that he should not come. cently, he would apologize to young messages to Rabbi Ruderman to When asked to explain this unchar· talmidei chachamim, explaining be mispallel for him in his illness. acteristic lack of hospitality, the that due to his old age and physical Rosh Hayeshiva gave his reasons. condi tion he was unable to rise. Then he added: "Besides, the Alter When in America, he maintained Lovefor Seforim told me not to associate with him." contact with Rabbi Chaim Ozer and Their Contents On the rare occasions that he through correspondence, and in later visited Vilna as a young man, he years he turned to Rabbi Yechezkel ne of the great pleasures of spent the bulk of his time in the AbramskyJ"~' for halachic guidance. visiting Reb Chaim Ozer's house of Reb Chaim Ozer J''>l. who A case in point was when the Yeshiva 0 house was the access Rabbi lavished much attention on him. He was about to move and was selling Ruderman enjoyed to his enormous spoke with special awe of the sum· its old building. A Baptist group library. He used to quote Reb Chaim mer that he spent with Reb Chaim offered the Yeshiva over a half-a· Ozer to the effect that having a lot of Ozer. The Rosh Hayeshiva recalled million-dollars more than was of· seforim is a yeitzer hora and that that after not having seen Reb Chaim fered by the next highest bidder. It one would learn more ifhe had fewer Ozer for more than five years, he struck the Rosh Hayeshtva as be· seforim Nonetheless, the Rosh Ha·

The Jewish Obseroer, November 1987 15 yeshiva's thirst for Torah and his through an open volume of Gemora, adir. remembered the Gemora. but indelible memoiy combined to form challenging him as to which word not the indirect implications of its an insatiable desire to possess even was pinpointed on a later folio. And words, which by some accident I more sejorim on his bookshelf and he could answer, correctly. Or asking happened to recall. I then realized," in his mind. Apparently he chose to him how many times Rabbeinu Tam said Rabbi Ruderman, "that know­ emulate Reb Chaim Ozer rather than states a particular opinion in all ing the words on the page and their heed his admonition. He constantly Tosajos throughout Shas. And he meaning is insufficient. In addition, amazed his talmidim by referring to would respond, most accurately. But one must also cariy all the implica­ an opinion recorded in one obscure this was not sufficient. tions and ramifications of each bit of sefer after another, pointing to this On one occasion, he was chal­ knowledge in one's mind." or that volume in the marvelous col­ lenged with a puzzling question by Whenever he travelled to New York lection of thousands of seforim that one of the outstanding Roshei Ye­ during his youth and middle years, adorned his shelves. shiva of Europe. Rabbi Ruderman Rabbi Ruderman would make the Although he was celebrated for his responded by citing a passage in a rounds of the seforim stores. When total recall of all that he ever studied, Gemora that by implication an­ he learned that Rabbi Chaim Bris­ he was never content with memoiy swered the question. The challenger ker's novellae on the Rambam had per se: True, as a youngster in Slo­ recognized the reference and pro­ been published. available for three bodka, the older bachurim would ceeded to recite the rest of the page dollars, he exclaimed, "That's all? make a sport of piercing a needle verbatim. "Reb a gaon Such a sefer is worth much more!" (The proprietor promptly doubled the price.) A talmid once took the Rosh Ha­ TAKE. TORAH INTO YOUR BUSINESS yeshiva's Oneg Yom Tov off the shelf to look up a reference. When Join ... "Kolel Without Walls" the Rosh Hayeshiva saw the sejer. he recalled with pride that he had A project of Kole! Hatorah paid one hundred dollars for it in the [for yeshiva grads, businessmen and professionals] early 40's-a major expense in those days ... further demonstrating the by instituting a learning session extent of his love of Torah and sefo­ at your own place of business. Tim. ("A lot of money?" he comment­ ed. "How can one live without an We will help you set up a program, and can Oneg Yom Tov!") When he would also provide magidei shiur. receive in the mail a newly printed copy of a sefer that he already pos­ Join the growing number of avreichim and chaveirim in sessed. he would happily pay for the Kolel HaTorah at our central location, new edition. to encourage the pub­ Ave. L and East 9th Street, Brooklyn lishers in their undertaking. or Add your name to the expanding list of participating Many Facets, One Gem members in "Kolel Without Walls", abbi Ruderman described who are conducting chevrusos or shiurim at their own how the Alter treated each R talmid differently. He would business locations. rebuke publicly one of the true Ge­ dolei Baalei Mussar whenever he came to Slobodka If he would dare A-Z Luggage Home Equity Realty speak to us in such a manner. said Borenstein, Katlowitz & Schick Kaplan, Schultz, & Kaye the Rosh Hayeshiva, we would have Charles Wolf & Sons Diamonds Olympia Funding soon left. Yet there were others Contique Watch Fashions Pecan Software among his closest talmidim whom Fruchthandler Bros. Enterprises Satellite Realty and Funding the Alter would treat with great def­ erence. even to the point of asking permission to express mild criticism. The Rosh Hayeshiva, in tum. dealt ADD YOUR BRANCH TO THIS TREE OF LIFE with each talmid in the manner that Contact Rabbi Hersh Landau, 718-338-4005 he deemed best suited to that indi­ or Rabbi Yitzchok Alster, 718-258-3606 vidual. He was particularly careful when saying Mussar to the whole

16 The Jewish Observer, November 1987 was engaged as Mashgiachand Ram son-in-law and successor as Rosh because of his unique personality Hayeshiva. Rabbi YaakovWeinberg and talents. Ifhe were coerced to act ""'"''" Many independent-minded differently. he would no longer be young men who did not respond to Reb David. He succeeded In infusing more rigid types of guidance, blos­ the talmidim with great devotion to somed under the tutelage of Rabbi Torah and yiras Shomayim because Weinberg's probing intellect, and of the freedom that was given to him today occupy leading positions in to function as he understood. rabbonus and chinuch. Beyond doubt. Ner Israel succeeded Similarly, the Rosh Hayeshiva in reaching a broad range of young entrusted a young German refugee men because Rabbi Ruderman had with the responsibility of the execu­ the breadth to engage brilliant tal­ tive directorship of the Yeshiva­ midei chachomim and gifted teach­ his brother-in-law-to-be, Rabbi Naf­ ers who had their individual ap­ tali Neuberger, who contributed proaches to Torah and chinuch­ vastly to the raising of Ner Israel to such as Reb David or J"~" his own its present-day status.

Rabbi David Kronglas Yeshiva to speak positively even while calling them to task for some short­ coming. Just as the Alter's approach to his talmidim bespoke an appreciation for eveiy person's individuality, so did Rabbi Ruderman's. By the same token, he was able to freely delegate authority without ever abdicating responsibility. This rare capacity al­ lowed the introduction of other powerful personalities into the Hanhala (administration) of the yeshiva. Rabbi David Kronglas ''"'· as Mashgiach Ruchan~ left an in­ delible imprint on the talmidim that still echoes within the hearts of his talmidim and the walls of the Beis With Rabb< Naftali Neuberger. Hamidrash. In advance of engaging RebDovid, the RoshHayeshivasent him a copy of Avodas Levi, which Reb Dovid returned with an impres­ sive list of comments on the chid­ dushim Reb David, who had spent his years as a talmid in Mir and Shang­ hai, favored a stem and demanding approach to the bachurim He could beseverewith thosewhosebehavior fell short of the standards he set. and indeed it was perceived by many that the Rosh Hayeshiva was not always In agreement with Reb Dovid's methods. Yet. when he was ques­ tioned as to why he had granted the ~ Mashgiach such latitude, he replied ~ that each person functions best 1~ within the context of his own per- ~ sonality and convictions. Reb David ~

The Jewish Observer, November 1987 1 7 Through the Keyhole

Available now at your local bookstore, or order directly from Torah Lishmah Institute, 25 Clifton Avenue, Yonkers, New York 10705. he incredible scope and breadth of his knowledge in ------:?<------T Torah gave him the facility to communicate with Gedolei Yisroel of diverse backgrounds. Thus he Address------was as comfortable with contem­ poraries of the Lithuanian circle, as he was with those of Polish, Chas­ Please serid me the lollowirig volume(s) of the Master a Meslkhta Serles. sidic, and Sefardi segments ofJewry. __ Tiacta!e Sanhedrin@ $28 per copy "" $ There were several occasions when

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18 The Jewish Obseroer, November 1987 In Talmudic symbolism, a river, a kettle and a bird represent three levels of peace - and of peaceful marriage.

from those meetings with enormous remarked that that projection accu­ respect for the greatness and piety of rately describes Mesivta Rabbi the Rebbe. He remarked that essen­ Chaim Berlin as it is currently tially the Rebbe is correct in his flourishing. basic views: the specific situation of In 1936. Rabbi '"" our times, however, calls for a differ­ visited America for the first time to ent approach. raise money for his yeshiva in Kletzk. Rabbi . He treasured his friendships with He stayed with Rabbi Ruderman for noted Rosh Hayeshiva and his own contemporaries. Rabbi Yitz­ over a month (their Rebbi tzens were author, has written a chok Hutner '""·whom Rabbi Rud­ first cousins), and the Rosh Haye­ warm. sympathetic - and erman had known from their years shiva spared no effort in helping practical - book on how in Slobodka. once came to Baltimore him raise funds in Baltimore. While to apply Torah concepts to for a simcha, and stayed overnight Rabbi Aharon was there, a dinner create a successful Rosh Ha­ was held for the benefit of a Conser­ so he could visit with the marriage. He speaks yeshiva the next morning. After ar­ vative institution. and $25.000-a riV!ng in the Yeshiva at 9:30, he and vast sum in those days-was raised clearly and frankly on why marriages fail, the nature the Rosh Hayeshivaembraced each in one evening. Reb Aharon was very other, and adjourned to a room where perturbed by this Chillul Hashem of love, the control of they remained until 5:00 P.M. Rabbi He must spend weeks going from anger and other vital Hutner later commented that he person to person with all its attend­ subjects. considered it a Yorn Tau for having ant difficulties and disappointments A perceptive book, filled had the oneg rnchni (spiritual ela­ to raise paltry sums for the yeshiva with wisdom and wit. tion) of spending the day with the in Kletsk, while a deviant group Rosh Hayeshtva. raises such enormous sums in one Hardcover $10.95 Rabbi Ruderman recalled that night! when Rabbi Hutner came to Amer­ The Rosh Hayeshiva consoled Reb ica in the late 30's, the Rosh Haye­ Aharon by pointing out that the shiva invited him to join him in Bal­ Torah requires signs to be posted ~ FELDHEIM timore. which Rabbi Hutnerpolitely pointing the way to orei miklat-the ,_~ BOOl

The Jewish Observer, November 1987 19 Rabbi Rudennan taught a sense Qf responsibilityfor Klal by example. It seemed that his love for Torah spilled over and penneated his love and sense Qf achrayus (responsibility) for others.

Hashem of his act. A person travel­ him of Rabbi Chaim Ozer.... During carry responsibility for his fellow. In ling to Yerushalayim, however, rep­ the sixth Knessia Gedolah, he and his case, it seemed that his love for resents a Kiddush Hashem that is ,,,,, the Ponovezer Rosh HayeshiVa, Torah spilled over and permeated enlarged every time he asks some­ Rabbi Elazar Schach N""""' ex­ his love and sense of achrayus one for directions. Similarly, every changed visits, each going out of his (responsibility) for others. person approached by Reb Aharon way to repay the other his earlier Moreover, he saw Torah as the on behalf ofK!etzk represents a new visit. ... During this same trip to prime tool for exercising one's ach­ opportunity for Kiddush Hashem. Eretz Yisroel, Rabbi Ruderman paid rayus. He directed his talmidim to By contrast, the other institution a visit to Dayan Weiss of the Eida incorporate Torah lessons in their represents the opposite, and the Hachareidis. The Dayan recipro­ kiruv (outreach) activities. because quicker its moment in the spotlight cated with a visit in which the two Torah possesses powers that are is over the better. engaged in an animated, joyful Torah even supertor to "rap sessions" in Whenever Rabbi Ruderman visited discussion, for over four hours. opening up the hearts of Jews es­ Eretz YisroeL he invariably returned tranged from their heritage. In fact, with personal impressions of the Responsibilityfor Kial Yisroel at a lecture at a Torah Umesorah great men he had met. Following the Convention, he devoted more than Fifth Knessia Gedolah in 1965. for abbi Ruderman taught a half of his presentation to a Dvar instance, he spoke glowingly of his sense of responsibility for Torah, later explaining that Torah meetingwith the Chebiner Rav''"" R Kial by example. To be sure, study in itself is a source of chizuk his atzilus (nobility) had reminded the Torah commands every Jew to and encouragement.

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20 The Jewish Observer, November 1987 honor-and stood in awe for the image of a living Sefer Torah that he projected. Even in the informal setting of Camp Agudah, where he spent the last five summers of his life. he inspired youngsters with his words of encouragement and his interest in their accomplishments-whether memorization of Mishnayos, which they had expected him to appreciate, or the excitement of Color War activ­ ities: "What does the Rosh Haye­ shiva think of our frantic behav­ ior?" they wondered. Indeed, he con­ fided in Rabbi Yaakov Kamenetzky during a visit that the latter paid him one summer, "A pity we did not have a camp like this for the children of Litta. So many neshomos would have been saved for Torah!" The numerous Roshei Yeshiva that came to visit with him every summer, the respect they demonstrated toward The Rosh Hayeshiva With "":P Rabbi Moshe Sherer and the Bluz.hever Rebbe, Rabbi Yisroel Spim him, but most of all, his mere pres­ N"1J''l'J. Rabbi Shmuel Bloom. l. ence, stirred the hearis of all who During the war years. the Yeshiva His Legacy: Kavod Hatorah were privileged to see him ... his lips saved as many people as it could by moving, reviewing volumes of Shas. providing a maximum number of he stature and demeanor of • • • affidavits. The Rosh Hayeshiva the Rosh Hayeshiva was in Our generation was blessed with a served for many years as the chair­ T itself an expression of the living link to the great Mesora of man of the VaadRoshei Yeshiva of magnitude ofTorah greatness. When Torah and Mussar of the Alter, and Torah Umesorah, and was an active he entered the Beis Hamidrash, the ultimately Rabbi Yisroel Salanter member of the Board of Governors of entire Yeshiva rose. of course, in his J"~'· He would often conjecture how Chinuch Atzmai-Torah Schools for Israel. . . . Upon the invitation of With Rabbi Hillel Sittner In Camp Agudah. Rabbi Aharon Kotler, he became in­ volved in Agudath Israel of America, and served as a deeply involved member of the Moetzes Gedolei HaTorah, the movement's highest policy-making body. Indeed. he at­ tended the national conventions of Agudath Israel regularly where he honored the gatherings with his addresses. For decades he also maintained regular contact with the organization and was involved in all of its important issues. He urged his talmidim in tum to become involved with Kial work and assume respon­ sibilities within whatever commu­ nity they find themselves. Whether in Rabbonus, Chinuch, lay leader­ ship or professional Kial work. tal­ midim of the Rosh Hayeshiva are well represented and occupy key positions of influence and impor­ tance.

The Jewish Obseroer, November 1987 21 Unyielding dedication to studying and teaching Torah is a trait that is not easily leamed. Yet somehow those who were in the immediate presence qf Rabbi Ruderman learned to love Leaming.

Reb Yisroel would have reacted in a enormous sum in those days, believ­ ous procession, creating a stirring given situation. The Rosh Haye­ ing that the donor was giving away demonstration of Kavod HaTorah. shiva told of the time the shammus all his money and would be left pen­ One Shemini Atzeres. as he was in Dolhinov forgot to bring the kitul niless as a result. Weeks later the entering his home, he turned and (white garment that the chazzan donor's daughter confirmed the told the bachurim at his side, "Look wore) to shul for Shemini Atzeres. Rosh Hayeshiva 's suspicions and up Sanhedrin, 7a." The Gemora The people were veiyupset and pub­ thanked him for his thoughtfulness. there describes how one can avoid licly rebuked the shammus. Draw­ As Reb Yisroel often pointed out, letting kavod go to one's head. ing on what Reb Yisroel might have how important it is to keep one's When thousands of talmidim and said, he pointed out that wearing a priorities in perspective! admirers, rabbonim and laymen, kitul is merely a minhag. a custom, mechanchim and Roshei YeshiVa whereas embarrassing a fellow Jew converged on the Yeshiva Ner Israel publicly and disturbing Simchas campus to bid farewell to Rabbi Yaa­ Yorn Tov are d'Orayso, proscribed in Eveiy Yam Tov, the bachurim kov Yitzchok Ruderman O">i, on the Torah. danced the Rosh Hayeshiva home Sunday, 14 Tammuz, July 12, the During the Yeshiva's early diffi­ from the Yeshiva. When the Yeshiva Kavod HaTorah was overwhelming. cult years, the Rosh Hayeshiva re­ was still located on Garrison Boule­ And the Rosh Hayeshiva could not fused a donation of $1,000, an vard, traffic was stopped for the joy- object.•

22 The Jewish Observer. November 1987