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What is the Rabbi’s opinion on the method of Rabbi Leib Mintzberg?

שו”תCategory: moralWhat is the Rabbi’s opinion on the method of Rabbi Leib Mintzberg?
asked 3 years ago

Rabbi Leib Mintzberg innovated a system in Judaism, cited in Wikipedia
His approach to Judaism was characterized by a desire for a natural connection to the Torah and the mitzvot and by an attempt to explain the reasons for the mitzvot in a way that resonates with the heart. In his opinion, observing the mitzvot without understanding them in this way could lead to spiritual apathy and making them ‘ learned mitzvot for people ‘ without a spiritual and emotional connection.
Rabbi Mintzberg also considered the development of emotions and longing in serving God, such as praying with enthusiasm. His practical guidance tends toward optimism and seeing the Torah and the commandments as a pleasant duty. The Torah and the commandments do not deny this world, but rather guide a person to live in it with justice, honesty, and holiness. Unlike many circles in Haredi Judaism, his method encourages independent thinking, which in his opinion gives rise to unforced faith. His educational doctrine holds that in our generation there is little to be said for punishment or fear of punishment. Educators must emphasize the beauty and importance of the Torah and the commandments, and the happiness of being a Jew who is privileged to observe the Torah. In addition, in his view, it is permissible and even commanded to enjoy this world to the right extent, and in his conversations he would often describe ways of enjoying the world, the wonders of nature, and bodily experiences.

Is this a conceptually correct way,

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מיכי Staff answered 3 years ago

In my opinion, absolutely not. For several reasons: 1. It’s not true. 2. It could be disappointing when it turns out not to be true. 3. Even if it’s true, it’s not the basis for serving God. It has to be done out of duty. 4. Purposeful reasoning is a tactic and not a substance. They explain to me why it’s good for me and not why it’s right.

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