Q&A: Torah and Personal Reasoning
Torah and Personal Reasoning
Question
Dear Rabbi Michael, hello!
About someone who leaves in the middle of the Torah reading, the Sages applied the verse, "he has despised the word of the Lord."
And I heard from someone that this refers to their time, when there was one synagogue in the whole district, unlike in our time.
I really connect with the logic of what he says, but this (and other examples) brings me to the following question:
To what extent may I relate to the words of the Sages using my own reasoning?
My reasoning tells me to follow my reasoning, but my reasoning also tells me that if I keep following my reasoning,
all the religious people around me will throw stones at me… and that gives me "second thoughts" about faith in this path.
What does the Rabbi think about this issue?
Thanks in advance for the answer.
Answer
Regarding the explanation you mentioned, I do not see any real basis for it. Maybe yes, and maybe not.
As for the question itself, clearly you need to use your own reasoning. And if they throw stones at you, let them throw. But you have to use your reasoning properly, and for that it is worthwhile to hear other opinions about every interpretation.
See my article here: