Photo Credit: Jewish Museum
Teaching Torah is a profound experience, as the relationship between a teacher and their students is unique and meaningful. In this week’s parsha, Rashi reflects on Moshe’s statement about the future faithfulness of the Jewish people after his passing. He notes that while Moshe predicted a decline in their devotion, the example of Yehoshua’s leadership shows how a student can carry on the teachings of their mentor in a way that fulfills the essence of the original teachings.
Yehoshua’s ability to inspire and guide the Jewish people in observing the Torah despite challenges demonstrates the impact of a teacher’s legacy. While the teachings may evolve over time, the essence of the original message is carried forward through the teachings of the students. Each student adds their own perspective and interpretation, creating a rich tapestry of Torah knowledge that is passed down through generations.
As teachers, our influence may be limited to the generation we teach directly, but the impact of our teachings reverberates through the collective wisdom of the Jewish people. Our contributions become part of the greater body of knowledge and tradition, constantly evolving and adapting to new circumstances. In this way, our teachings and our existence continue to shape the ongoing relationship between the Jewish people and God.