Recently, the rebbeim and talmidim of Yeshiva Gedola Ateres Yaakov of Lawrence traveled to Yeshiva Gedola Zichron Moshe of South Fallsburg to visit with its rosh yeshiva, Rav Elya Ber Wachtfogel, shlita, and to engage in divrei Torah and discussions of hashkafah.
Rav Wachtfogel posed a simple question . . . or so it seemed. For a young man to develop into a true talmid chacham, on a fundamental level, what does he need to develop? The bachurim suggested several possible answers, including the need to toil in one’s studies in a concerted effort and to develop one’s intelligence.
The rosh yeshiva explained that although these were important goals, first and foremost, one must develop a love for Torah. It is only when one has a love of Torah that he can be inspired to grow in learning. That special love catapults one’s desire and determination to work for Torah. But how does one develop that love of Torah? The rosh yeshiva explained that one must focus on constantly reviewing his learning, over and over again, until he “owns” his learning. When you are “koneh” (acquire) Torah, it becomes dear to you. That “kinyan” girds one to make the necessary sacrifices which are part and parcel of becoming a true talmid chacham.
The talmidim were inspired and uplifted with the rosh yeshiva’s divrei chizuk and with the care and interest displayed by Rav Wachtfogel. Before departing, each bachur had the opportunity to meet individually with the rosh yeshiva and to request and to receive a personal berachah.
Yeshiva Gedola Ateres Yaakov is designed for bachurim returning from study in Israel and provides a serious, yet warm environment for young b’nei Torah to continue their growth in Torah and yiras Shamayim. Under the leadership of Rabbi Yechezkel Rodkin, Rabbi Yisroel Gold, and Rabbi Yehuda Orlansky, and the guidance of the menahel, Rabbi Mordechai Yaffe, Ph.D., the yeshiva is a comprehensive makom Torah where each talmid is encouraged to advance in all facets of Torah learning as he builds lasting relationships with dedicated rebbeim and lifelong mentors.