9 Timeless Lessons from Rabbi Gershon Edelstein on Education and Spiritual Growth

Rabbi Gershon Edelstein, one of the leading Torah figures of our generation, often spoke about the deep connection between education, spirituality, and the very existence of the world. His teachings show that Torah learning, especially by children, is not only a personal obligation but a force that sustains all of creation. The following insights reflect his approach to Torah study, teaching, and spiritual responsibility.

1. The Vital Role of Torah Study

Rabbi Edelstein explained that the most powerful force sustaining the world is the Torah learning of young children. He referred to the verse in Jeremiah 33:25, which teaches that if Torah learning were to stop even for a single moment, day and night, heaven and earth could not continue to exist. This idea is further explained in Nefesh HaChaim, Gate 4, Chapter 11, which states that if there were even one moment anywhere in the world without Torah study, the world would cease to exist. The simple learning of children has immense spiritual power.

2. Preparation for Mitzvot Is Also a Mitzvah

Being involved in Torah is not limited to the time spent learning. Anything that helps a person learn properly is also considered part of the mitzvah. For example, resting or sleeping in order to have strength to learn Torah is itself a mitzvah. The Mordechai explains in Sukkah 280 that someone engaged in a mitzvah is exempt from sleeping in the sukkah, because proper rest allows them to perform mitzvot better the next day. In this way, rest itself becomes part of serving Hashem.

3. Everything Done to Serve Hashem Has Value

The Rambam writes in Hilchot Deot 3:3 that even sleeping can be considered serving Hashem if it is done with the intention of gaining strength to fulfill mitzvot. Although sleep appears to be inaction, it is still part of serving Hashem when it supports spiritual growth. Anything needed to fulfill the 613 commandments is considered service of Hashem.

4. The Great Merit of Teaching Young Children

Young children are not obligated to learn Torah, and they are not included in the prohibition of neglecting Torah study. However, when they do learn, their Torah creates an enormous merit. Their learning has the power to sustain the world in a unique and powerful way.

5. The Special Merit of Teachers

Those who teach Torah are considered people who bring merit to the public, because they guide and uplift many children. Rabbi Edelstein noted that when normal teaching methods are difficult due to safety concerns, teachers should find other ways to continue. This can include speaking with students by phone, making learning interesting, or guiding parents on how to teach their children at home. Every effort to continue teaching brings merit to the teacher and to the world.

6. Creating a Lasting Legacy

Even teaching just one child carries tremendous merit. That child may grow up, build a family, and pass Torah learning on to future generations. All the Torah learned by that child, their children, and their descendants is connected to the original teacher. In this way, a single act of teaching can influence generations.

7. The Power of Innocent Learning

The Gemara in Shabbat 147a records a discussion between Abaye and Rav Papa about the special quality of children’s Torah learning. They explain that the learning of children is free of sin, and because of this purity, their Torah provides greater protection for the generation than the Torah learning of even the greatest sages.

8. Continuing to Learn While Protecting Life

Rabbi Edelstein emphasized that those who encourage and teach children are sustaining the world. At the same time, safety must be taken seriously. When public gatherings are dangerous, communal prayer and learning must be adjusted accordingly. The goal is to continue Torah learning in safe ways until we merit a time when learning can return to its full and proper form.

9. Learning with Personal Connection

Finally, Rabbi Edelstein encouraged people to learn Torah that speaks to their heart. Each person should study subjects that interest and inspire them. Learning that is engaging naturally draws a person closer and strengthens their connection to Torah. The key is to build a deep and personal bond with Torah, according to one’s own nature.

Conclusion

Rabbi Gershon Edelstein’s words remind us that Torah learning is not only an intellectual pursuit but the foundation of life itself. From the pure voices of young children to the dedication of teachers and parents, every effort made for Torah has lasting impact. By learning with intention, teaching with care, and preparing ourselves properly, we each play a role in sustaining the world and strengthening our connection to Hashem.