Beyond Orthodox Conversion to Judaism

"Rabbi Elazar said, 'Be eager to study the Torah; know what to answer a heretic; know before whom you toil, who your Employer is, who will pay you the reward of your labor'"

The first part of the Mishna tells us that we should be eager to study Torah. The Tiferes Yisrael explains that there are three things that a person needs to do to be successful in learning Torah: 1) consistency and constant learning; 2) in depth learning; and 3) making sure one is not distracted while learning.

The Tiferet Ysirael explains that the learning has to be consistent, meaning that one should learn as much as possible at fixed times and constantly review what they have learned. Review is important because even though a person wants to cover ground, it is important to constantly go over what they have learned so the understanding will be that much clearer and one will not forget it.

The second thing a person needs to do to be successful in learning is to learn in depth. When one delves into their learning uncovering layer after layer of what the text is talking about, they will have a better understanding and clarity of the material at hand. One will also understand better the finer aspects of the particular subject at hand and master it.

The third thing a person needs to be successful in their learning is to have clarity of thought. This means one should not bring in their everyday worries and thoughts when they begin to learn. This will only distract a person and not allow them to concentrate. Although this is easier said than done, nonetheless, this is a prerequisite to successful study.

The next part of the Mishna tells us that we have to know what to answer a heretic. Rabbenu Yonah explains that if we don't learn properly and have clarity in our learning, then how are we to answer the heretics of our generation? The reason this is so important is because if we don't answer them, they will have a negative influence over others causing them to stray away from Torah.

Others ask why should we delve into the heretical thoughts of others, won't that effect us negatively? In reality, we need to answer up our own heretical thoughts. Why don't we act like the Torah tells us or how have we fallen into the trap of the yetzer hara (evil inclination). It doesn't mean I should read heretical books so that I can better know "their material" so I can answer them.

The leads to the last part of the Mishna that a person should be careful and know who will repay the labor of your work in this world, ie G-d Himself. This means that I have to be careful in my interactions with the heretic, lest he have a negative influence on me! Therefore, we should keep in mind that G-d is the one who truly knows our thoughts and what we do.

Even if we have the greatest intentions, we could be damaged spiritually. After all, isn't it a mitzvah to try and convince our erring brethren that they are going down the wrong path? As long as they will not hate Torah more by this discussion then it is praiseworthy but we must always be on guard against the negative influence they may have on us!