Rabbinic Reflection: Rabbi Eliza McCarroll

Study, Action, and the Heart of Jewish Life

In a passage from the Babylonian Talmud (Kiddushin 40b), Rabbi Akiva and Rabbi Tarfon were gathered at the house of their colleagues, where they were asked the question of which is greater: study or action? 

Rabbi Tarfon answers: Action is greater.  

Yet, Rabbi Akiva responds: Study is greater.  

Everyone agreed with Akiva that study is greater than action because it leads to action. 

This logic, this argument, would seem to make total sense, since we could say that although both study and action are essential, we should prioritize the one that facilitates the other. 

Yet, if action is the ultimate goal then, why bother with study at all? 

The idea might be, according to Jewish philanthropist and educator Aaron Dorfman, that we need both, because study does not necessarily lead us to action, but through action.  Study guides us towards what actions to take, and how to take on mitzvot, our sacred commandments. For example, the Torah teaches us to pay workers fairly, and promptly. The Talmud teaches us that pikuach nefesh, the saving of life, rises above all. The medieval scholar Maimonides teaches us how much tzedakah to allocate and where to direct it. 

So, at Holy Blossom, when it comes to our education offerings, we seek, in the wisdom of our tradition, to blend both study and action. 

How, might you ask? 

The first is for our Adult learners. We are thrilled to be launching, in November, our Alef-Bets of Jewish Life course. This will be an incredible, team-taught intensive experience aimed at enhancing Judaic knowledge and literacy in a Beit Midrash environment, as well as Hebrew and Trope instruction. Students can choose their own “tracks” to take what is most meaningful and relevant to them. For those who wish, there is also an Adult B’nei Mitzvah component so that we may provide the opportunity to celebrate that special milestone. This study will lead to action by creating a community of committed learners and friends, who will be enriched in their Jewish skills to bring their many talents back to strengthen our congregation. 

The second is for our youngest Blossoms. Every Sunday morning and Monday evening, our Youth Education Centre (YEC) is a hub of learning and laughter. I mean it when I say that Sundays are the best day of my week, every week, and it is because of the soul-nourishing impact of seeing our bright future. Our YEC is that place where our students come to play and pray, and, in doing so, we form Jewish identities built on pride, joy, community, and deep-rooted values and connections. Registration is open for 5786 and is on a rolling basis. We would welcome anyone who has a child or grandchild looking for the best Jewish educational foundation to be in touch and to come check us out. 

As the Mishna teaches, and as we recite as part of our morning liturgy: V’Talmud Torah k’neged kulam, “the study of Torah rivals them all, because it leads to them all.”  

At Holy Blossom, study leads not to action, but through action, for all of our eager students and learners. 

We can’t wait for you to participate in these amazing endeavours with us.