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We must understand that, far from being “arguments for arguments sake”, the differences of opinion of the Talmudic sages stem from a deep commitment to clarify our relationship to the Divine, rectifying Creation and revealing G-d’s presence in the world. In addition, the nature of the Divine and His Creation is far more dynamic than static one-dimensional “truths.” In order to present the depth of the wisdom of the Torah – as well as the soul’s potential to reveal it – the Sages engage in a process through which entire world-views are explored and tested, expressing the potential hues of the light of G-d’s infinite wisdom. This is the way the Creator desires, allowing us a certain participation - or partnership, if you will - in the perfection of the world and the demonstration of His greatness.
This can be understood by a well-known metaphor describing the ostensibly argumentative nature of the Jewish People. It is said that Jews are as beautiful and as precious as diamonds – but equally as tough; in order to bring out the splendor of (i.e. cut and polish) each one, another diamond (i.e. Jew) equally as tough must be brought to carve it. Through the “ordeal” of the refinement process, the potential brilliance of the stone is revealed. No one would accuse a diamond cutter of causing unnecessary friction in the world!
We should remain ever conscious of the methods and flavors of the exegesis of the Talmud, taking alternative opinions other than our own into consideration, as well as remaining sharp and well-defined in our own world view
It is important to note that not all study of Torah is based on this dynamic of “argument for the sake of clarification”. Most noteworthy is the absence of this back and forth dialectic and environment of dispute in the study of Kabbalah and Jewish mysticism. This is because these areas of Oral Torah originate in the most supernal of the spiritual worlds, which are above and beyond the constricted consciousness of apparent (!) conflict and dualism. In fact, regarding the Full Redemption, the time when divine consciousness will permeate Creation, the prophet declares, “They shall neither harm nor destroy on all My holy mount, for the land shall be full of knowledge of the Lord as water covers the sea bed.” (Isaiah 11:9); in short, the highest spiritual state is one beyond conflict – but until we arrive at that destination we are given the opportunity to refine (or “polish,” as in the above metaphor) Creation, anticipating an age of peace, free of all conflict and need for clarification.
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Torah » G-d's Wisdom
