Q&A: The Parameters of Neglecting Torah Study
The Parameters of Neglecting Torah Study
Question
I wanted to ask the Rabbi another question about what the halakhic definition is of the concept of neglecting Torah study. Where is its boundary?
I am currently learning in a mission-oriented yeshiva in the Center that encourages volunteering in the community. In my first year I volunteered twice a week, and this year I decided not to volunteer and instead to invest more in Torah study. Throughout the year I face many conflicts, for example Torah scroll dedication processions in the community nucleus and many other things going on around me… Should I go to each and every thing? Should I volunteer for everything they ask for? In the end, all these things come at the expense of my Torah study, and I believe the value of Torah study is very great, and I don’t know when I can decide that the learning is more important and not do what they ask.
Answer
As a rule, a time-sensitive commandment that cannot be done by others overrides Torah study. But in my article on reasoning in Jewish law (it appears on the site), I showed that the concept of neglecting Torah study is not really a halakhic one.
There is no schoolbook solution to these dilemmas, and you should use your common sense. You need to remember that learning in yeshiva is very important for building your abilities and motivation for the future, so this is not decided only on the basis of halakhic considerations of neglecting Torah study. If there are too many events and it interferes with learning, I also wouldn’t go. Just make sure this isn’t dodging (the indication is whether you are careful not to neglect Torah study for other reasons as well).