How should we learn Torah — with an open heart, or a critical eye?

"Haskeit"

Moses told the people, "Pay attention and listen, Israel."  (Deut. 27:9) Why the repetition, "Pay attention and listen"? And what does the unusual word, haskeit ('pay attention') mean?

One explanation put forward by the Talmud is that haskeit is a composite word, from the words has (be quiet, hush) and kateit (shatter). When studying Torah, we should first be silent, accepting the teaching even though its logic baffles us. Only afterwards should we try to analyze and dissect it, asking whatever questions we have.

This is similar to the advice of Rava, the fourth century Amora, "One should first learn Torah, and only afterwards scrutinize it."  (Berachot 63b)

Why is this order so important? Why not question and criticize right away?

Acquiring a Complete Picture

If we attempt to analyze a particular matter immediately after having learned it, the results of our investigation will be of poor quality, reflecting superficial and incomplete knowledge. We must first gain an overall understanding of the subject at hand and all relevant topics.

For this reason, the Talmud advised that we train ourselves to listen carefully and acquire much knowledge before adding our own opinions and views. If we have difficulty understanding certain aspects, we should not be quick to criticize. First, we need the patience of has, to remain quiet and uncritically absorb the entire subject.

Only after we have a complete picture of the matter, should we join in the intellectual battles of "milchamta shel Torah" ('the war of Torah'). Then we may kateit — dismantle that which we feel is illogical or unreasonable. But we shouldn't be hasty to attack before we have acquired expertise in the subject. Many tragic errors came about from rash students who were too quick to challenge and tear down.

This advice is supported by Rava's dictum, "First learn and then analyze." We should first gain broad expertise before attempting to delve into in-depth investigations and innovate new interpretations. When Torah study is initially approached with an open heart, then the ensuing analysis with a critical eye will bring a blessing to the world.

(adapted from Ein Eyah vol. II p. 390)

Copyright © 2006 by Chanan Morrison