Thursday, August 22, 2013

Practical Mitzvos

What is the main problem with Islam and Christianity? Theology? No. We definitely have our theological differences with these religions [which, if we remember, are just mutant outgrowths of Judaism] but that is not the central issue. The critical difference is the fact that they jettisoned the emphasis on practical mitzvos. For them abstract belief is most of what a person needs.

We have a Shas and innumerable practical halachos which emanate from there. It is our joy and "pride" [pride usually isn't a good quality]. Those who disregard many halachos are really missing out. Learning and knowing mishna brura and similar works gives one a structure that allows him to fulfill the will of Hashem at every moment of every day in a real concrete way and builds our nation.

In the words of Maran HaRav ztz"l
 
 באמונות הנוטות מכלל התורה, כמו האמונה הנוצרית והמחמדנית, אין עיקר הארס מונח במושג האלהות שלהם, שהוא שונה ממה שהוא נכון להיות ע"פ יסוד אורה של תורה, כ"א במה שיוצא מזה הריסת המצות המעשיות, וביטול תקות האומה ביחש לתחייתה השלמה.