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Why are there so many arguments in the Mishnah and Talmud?

by Rabbi Naftali Silberberg

  

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Torah is G-d's wisdom. Intellect, by its very nature, allows for different opinions. In fact, often times the very same premise can lead to two opposite conclusions (see Genesis 6:5 and 8:21). Therefore, G-d's wisdom allows, and indeed mandates, different opinions.

[See Introduction to Tanya by Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi (available at kehotonline.com). He explains that the souls of different sages are rooted in various G-dly emotions; kindness, severity, mercy, etc. Therefore, they see G-d's intellect through the prism of that emotion which they identify with.]

Halachah (the final law), is G-d's will. And will is absolute, there are no two ways to look at things
Halachah (the final law), however, is (not intellect, but rather) G-d's will. And will is absolute, there are no two ways to look at things.

This topic is complex and involved, and many inkwells have been spent elaborating on this idea. For further information, I would advise you to join a class on Chassidic philosophy.


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Torah
Torah is G–d’s teaching to man. In general terms, we refer to the Five Books of Moses as “The Torah.” But in truth, all Jewish beliefs and laws are part of the Torah.
Halachah
Jewish Law. All halachah which is applicable today is found in the Code of Jewish Law.
Chassidic
(Pl.: Chassidim; Adj.: Chassidic) A follower of the teachings of Rabbi Israel Baal Shem Tov (1698-1760), the founder of "Chassidut." Chassidut emphasizes serving G-d with sincerity and joy, and the importance of connecting to a Rebbe (saintly mentor).
Tanya
Foundation text of Chabad chassidism. Authored by Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi, founder of the Chabad movement, and first published in 1796. Considered to be the "Bible" of Chassidism.
Genesis
The first book of the Five Books of Moses. It records the story of Creation and its aftermath, and chronicles the lives of the Patriarchs.
G-d
It is forbidden to erase or deface the name of G-d. It is therefore customary to insert a dash in middle of G-d's name, allowing us to erase or discard the paper it is written on if necessary.