Why is it forbidden to leave Eretz Yisrael for abroad?

Shalom rav,

1. It is forbidden to leave Eretz Yisrael for abroad for the sake of a trip (see Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim, siman 531, seif 4, and Mishnah Berurah, s.k. 14).

However, if that person greatly needs mental rest and fresh air, and feels that he will not be able to achieve this goal in the country, there is room to permit him to travel abroad (and see also Responsa Teshuvot VeHanhagot, volume 5, siman 393, and Tchumin, volume 20, pages 399-406).

Similarly, there is room to be lenient and leave the country for a short time if one is going with the intention of seeing the wonders of nature of the Creator of the Universe, may He be blessed (see Responsa Shevet HaLevi, volume 5, siman 173). Of course, this leniency applies only if one is going to see natural wonders that are unmatched in Eretz Yisrael, and also on condition that he is truly intending to be inspired by the greatness of the Creator of the Universe, may He be blessed.

2. There are several reasons for the prohibition of leaving Eretz Yisrael for abroad -

- Because one removes himself from the observance of the mitzvot that are dependent on the Land (Rashbam in Bava Batra 91a).

- Because it is a neglect of the mitzvah of settling Eretz Yisrael (Ramban on Bamidbar 33:53).

- Because, in general, in the Diaspora wisdom and fear of sin are not found among Israel, etc., whereas in general in Eretz Yisrael wisdom and fear of sin are found, and from them one attains honor for their Creator and merits to delight in the radiance of the Divine Presence (Rabbeinu Meiri on Ketubot 111a).

With blessing,

Hillel Meirs