"A shul rav, a rebbi, a rebbetzin — these relationships are more than just information, more than just delivering content that’s inspiring, education"
Back when I was in law school, a professor would repeatedly tell us that when someone has a hard time integrating something they know to be true, there’s a natural tendency to question its veracity. So when we find it hard to follow a law, rule, or best practice, over time we tend to begin questioning whether that law is applicable or valuable. It’s as if we’re saying — the flaw isn’t in my integration of the rule, the flaw is in the rule itself.
When I hear people questioning whether they need a rebbi, I remember that principle. Because that’s exactly what’s happening.
People aren’t really questioning whether a shul rav or rebbi could possibly be replaced by something on the screen. They’re saying, “I know I need a rebbi, a rav, a rebbetzin, but I can’t seem to find one. Is it okay if I settle for a bunch of very inspiring online shiurim instead?”
The answer is no. Now, online shiurim are great. I’m a massive fan of all the platforms and am so moved when I see people digesting Torah at levels unheard of before. It’s a wonderful phenomenon that we’re blessed to have. But it can never replace the mentorship, care, and concern of a person who has dedicated their life to Torah, who sees the world through the prism of Torah, who can integrate your circumstances with Torah, and can guide you through the different moments of your life.
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