Q&A: A Torah Scholar Who Crossed the Line
A Torah Scholar Who Crossed the Line.
Question
Hello Rabbi.
Today I had an argument. I claimed that in my opinion Rabbi Bunim Schreiber is a great Torah scholar, but foolish and petty in his thinking about the state and the army.
My friends argued that I can say I disagree with Rabbi Schreiber, but not be contemptuous of him.
I argued in response that since, in my opinion, he behaved publicly like a fool, then I am indeed contemptuous of him, because he is a person who has things about him that deserve scorn. From my perspective, he crossed the line of legitimate claims. And from the impression I got, he revealed his weakness.
They argued that this is slander and degrading a Torah scholar.
What does the Rabbi think?
Should one be contemptuous, or only disagree?
And is it also possible to be contemptuous of the person himself, since I claim that his behavior proves something about his character?
Answer
In a place where there is desecration of God's name, honor is not shown to a rabbi. Beyond that, even someone blessed with excellent analytical ability and broad knowledge is not necessarily a Torah scholar. Straight thinking is an important part of the package.
Discussion on Answer
No
If there is no desecration of God's name, and he is a Torah scholar, is it permitted to be contemptuous of a Torah scholar who says nonsense [in my view]?