Beyond Orthodox Conversion to Judaism

The next of the 48 ways to acquire Torah is not liking making directive decisions. Being a rabbinic figure is a very difficult job. Making decisions and answering people's questions is a big responsibility and should not be taken lightly.

How does one receive training in such a field? Today's rabbis have to learn a lot of material about many different aspects of Judaism. From kashrus to Shabbos to festivals to blessings...there appears no end in sight!

Even more important than the book knowledge and passing the exams is the amount of time they have spent with a qualified mentor that can guide them in the practical aspects of the material that they have learned. This is so important because one needs proper guidance and direction.

Another important element in becoming a person who answers questions for others is to know when to say, "I don't know" or "I am not sure" and be able to go to someone who knows more than them. As one of the commentaries tells us, one should not like making these decisions because of the awesome responsibility it entails and the tremendous repercussions they can have on someone's life.

This also means that if one has the proper training and proper mentors to go to, that they should not shirk their responsibilities if they are qualified for this work! The Talmud tells us that it is not good if a person has reached that level and does not help others. At the same time, the Talmud explains, if one is not qualified and answers questions for others, that is equally dangerous!