Re: Learning Properly

Asked by Joey · February 26, 2004 · Other

Question

If you would like sources for the role of thought and analysis in learning see the Rambam, Hilchos Talmud Torah, 1:11 and 1:12. In 1:12 he reccomends spending 1/3 of your learning being misbonen bedato lehavin davar midavar...this learning of "gemara" as the rambam calls it is not a simple act of information gathering but really a deeper level of analysis. Also see the bottom of Maseches Succah 28b, and the Rashi on the word Meshanen, where he clearly outlines a type of learning including sevara. I am not contesting your program of learning on the whole; my question is that this type of learning does have a place, so I was wondering where you though it do be. Thnk you for addressing my question. Joey

Answer

Answered by Aaron Abadi

You prove that Pilpul, Lehavin Davar Mitoch Davar (a deeper level of analysis) is a good thing, I'll grant you that. But I never disputed that. I merely said that "PRIOR" to studying in that way, one must first go through Sha"s. Ligmor VeHadar Lisvor, first you must learn through, and only then may you get into the Sevara, the reasons and the depth. If you didn't understand that, how can you analyze a Sugya? AA