As talmidim prepare to depart for Bein Hazemanim following Tishah B'Av, the Ponevezh Rosh Yeshiva delivered remarks urging them to avoid risky activities and instead use the break to strengthen others through Lev L'Achim. He warned that bnei Torah face heightened public scrutiny and stressed that each student bears responsibility for creating a Kiddush Hashem through his conduct.
The Rosh Yeshiva spoke at the conclusion of the final shiur klali of the zeman, amid the ongoing gezeiras hagiyus and what he characterized as mounting incitement against the Torah world. He cautioned that many are actively seeking opportunities to criticize yeshiva students, and urged bochurim to be especially careful about their behavior during Bein Hazmanim.
Continuing a tradition established by his late father-in-law, Rav Gershon Edelstein zt"l, the Rosh Yeshiva explained that words of encouragement customarily precede the yeshiva's dispersal for the break. He emphasized that every ben Torah should conduct himself in a manner that inspires respect for Torah and those who study it.
For talmidim seeking a change of pace, he discouraged potentially dangerous hikes and instead suggested dedicating time to learning with Jews growing in their observance through Lev L'Achim, conducted warmly and pleasantly without arguments.
The Rosh Yeshiva continues Rav Gershon Edelstein zt"L's practice of delivering his daily shiur throughout Bein Hazmanim, teaching Maseches Bava Basra each day from his home.
In his remarks, the Rosh Yeshiva stated: "There is a tradition to say words of encouragement," And explained that leaving the beis medrash requires "special calling and special preparation." He emphasized that conduct outside the yeshiva must show how "bnei Torah conduct themselves," So that "the Name of Heaven becomes beloved through him." He warned that "today especially, when they are looking for bnei Torah, examining them the way someone inspects an esrog, searching every point," People seek "any flaw." He discouraged involvement with certain activities, stating: "I'm telling you - believe me - it's foolishness and emptiness." For those seeking a change of pace, he suggested Lev L'Achim, where "we don't argue with them" But offer learning "in an air-conditioned beis medrash" To "create a Kiddush Hashem and bring people to love the Name of Heaven."