Amid growing turmoil in the olam haTorah over government cuts and mounting pressure targeting yeshivos and kollelim, Slabodka rosh yeshiva Rav Moshe Hillel Hirsch delivered a powerful address at Yeshivas Chevron, urging bnei yeshivah to prepare for what he described as a difficult and historic period for Torah Jewry.

In remarks that deeply stirred those in attendance, Rav Hirsch spoke about the increasing efforts to undermine Torah learning and stressed that the only path forward is unwavering dedication and self-sacrifice for the sake of Torah.

The rosh yeshivah warned that external pressures and temptations would intensify and called on the public not to be intimidated or swayed.

“Today, those who are against us, who do not want to allow us to learn, continue adding more and more restrictions every single day… It is becoming harder and harder. More and more, there is a need for self-sacrifice.”

He emphasized that strengthening commitment to Torah despite the challenges is itself the key to success and salvation.

“On the contrary, through our strengthening ourselves and being prepared to sacrifice ourselves for the sake of the Ribbono Shel Olam, that itself will be the koach, that itself will succeed. And through that there will be honor for the Ribbono Shel Olam, and that is what will bring the yeshuah.”

Rav Hirsch repeatedly warned that the challenges ahead would be severe.

“But people must know that there will be great tests here. Great tests. And the way to overcome the test and stand strong through these challenges is only by our being willing to sacrifice ourselves for the Ribbono Shel Olam. Through our truly being prepared, for the honor of the Ribbono Shel Olam, to give of ourselves.”

The rosh yeshivah said that only through such commitment can Klal Yisroel merit extraordinary siyata diShmaya.

“Only through this can we receive the great siyata diShmaya that comes from the Ribbono Shel Olam… Like by Moshe Rabbeinu — not only did the Ribbono Shel Olam give the Torah, but he merited rays of glory, special siyata diShmaya, and a unique closeness through accepting it upon himself.”

Rav Hirsch connected his message to the approaching Yom Tov of Shavuos and the concept of renewed acceptance of Torah.

“Regarding Kabbalas HaTorah in general, and Shavuos in particular — kavod Shamayim and learning Torah. Especially now, when we must accept upon ourselves to be ready to sacrifice ourselves for the Ribbono Shel Olam, to sacrifice ourselves so that we remain in Torah learning.”

He then issued a direct warning not to yield to outside influences or fear the pressures being brought against the Torah world.

“Chas veshalom, obviously we must not be tempted! But we also must not be afraid! We must do what needs to be done.”

Rav Hirsch concluded by expressing confidence that steadfast commitment to Torah would ultimately bring divine assistance and allow the Torah world to emerge from the current crisis stronger and more secure.

“And only through this — when the Ribbono Shel Olam sees that we are prepared to give ourselves for Him, that this becomes this great kavod haTorah — that is what will bring the great siyata diShmaya, so that we can emerge from all the hardships that exist now, and be able to return to learning with tranquility and peace.”

{Matzav.com}