Q&A: A Distinction Between the Formal and the Essential in Judaism
Originally published:
This is an English translation (via GPT-5.4). Read the original Hebrew version.
A Distinction Between the Formal and the Essential in Judaism
Question
The priesthood and kingship are inherited (and also the Exilarch in Babylonia), because that is a formal matter even if it is not the most appropriate choice.
But teaching Torah to others and spiritual leadership are essential matters, and therefore the sons of Moses and of Samuel the prophet, for example, would not continue the (religious) leadership.
Do you think this is a correct distinction? Thank you very much.
Answer
The most correct distinction is that nothing should be inherited.