tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5526791019741945652.post1570146697628625194..comments2023-06-19T09:00:10.503-05:00Comments on Chabad Jewish Learning Institute: Review of Lesson Two (Portraits in Leadership)Rabbi Shmuly Alteinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12546789464883033246noreply@blogger.comBlogger1125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5526791019741945652.post-78697738212003488692010-02-15T17:17:07.881-06:002010-02-15T17:17:07.881-06:00I read the extra readings to go along with our stu...I read the extra readings to go along with our study of Rabbi Yochanan ben Zakkai. And I am clear as to why he was one of the greatest heroes of the Jewish people. I was hung up on “how could he be so great if people only asked 2 questions in 18 years. I think the “2 questions in 18 years” is a metaphor to the turbulent times Zakkai lived in; destruction of Jerusalem and the temple by the Romans.<br />He made certain the people knew enough so they would be able to continue along the Jewish path. In a way there are similarities today amongst many Jews.<br /> <br />Someone in class said how could Zakkai be a good father if he always studied. Also I think his spirituality ran parallel with his studies and his knowledge of the necessity of his actions. Well in my mind there are those who are chosen to study with their hearts and souls and their souls are what is important. These Sages, Rabbis do this from love of Torah and necessity for the good of all the Jewish people and for the love of G-D. It is their way of living fruitful lives. And I believe when they are with their families it most often is quality time together.<br />In today’s world if the facts are true that 90 % of families are dysfunctional what good is it to work 8 hours and spend a lot of unhealthy time together. ??????<br /> <br />At the beginning of the extra reading on page 59 the Woman in the story says exactly what my Mom used to say when I was a kid and that is: “Shhh, the neighbors are listening, what will they think.?” I remember vividly she would slam the windows closed in the summer if things did not become civil. When I read this I had a good laugh and you know I felt deeply the presence of my late Mom.<br /> <br />So many other readings remind me of actual situations in my past and present life.Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com