Bidspirit auction | ”I Do Not Answer Such

”I Do Not Answer Such Questions” — A Rare Letter by Rabbi Yaakov Yisrael Kanievsky, the Steipler, Concerning Secular Studies. Bnei Brak, [1962] - An important and fascinating autograph letter signed by Rabbi Yaakov Yisrael Kanievsky, author of Kehillos Yaakov, written in Bnei Brak in 5722 [1962]. The letter was written in response to an inquiry seeking the Steipler’s opinion on two fundamental educational and ideological questions: whether it is permissible for a yeshivah student to engage in general secular studies, or whether such studies should be regarded as “external wisdoms”; and whether such studies should be permitted when doing so might influence parents to send another son to a yeshivah. The Steipler’s response is characteristically brief and unequivocal: “I do not answer such questions.” He then directs the questioner to consult the Rosh Yeshivah, Rabbi Shlomo Zalman Auerbach. Should he decline to respond, the matter should be referred to Rabbi Chaim Sarna, concluding with the words: “And you shall do according to what they instruct you.” Before us is a remarkable document reflecting the approach of the leading Torah authorities to one of the most sensitive issues facing the yeshivah world in the decades following the establishment of the State of Israel. During the 1950s and 1960s, vigorous debate surrounded the place of secular studies within the education of yeshivah students. In many cases, these discussions were intertwined with broader questions of drawing families closer to Torah observance, strengthening Torah institutions, and encouraging parents to enroll their children in yeshivos. Such matters were frequently brought before the leading sages of the generation, who were required to balance educational, communal, and ideological considerations. Particularly noteworthy is the Steipler’s decision not to express his own opinion on the matter, instead referring the questioner to other Torah authorities. This approach reflects his characteristic sense of responsibility and caution regarding sensitive public issues, as well as his view that questions of this nature should be decided by the rabbinic and educational authorities directly responsible for the specific circumstances. Rabbi Yaakov Yisrael Kanievsky (1899–1985), known throughout the Jewish world as the Steipler Gaon, was one of the foremost Torah leaders of the twentieth century and among the principal spiritual guides of Orthodox Jewry in Eretz Israel. For decades, thousands of letters reached him from across the Jewish world concerning matters of Torah, education, faith, and communal leadership. His concise and carefully worded responses remain an important source for understanding his educational and ideological outlook. Included is a copy of the original questions submitted to the Steipler, providing the complete context for this rare and revealing response. [1] leaf. 20 × 14 cm. Very good condition. Fold marks.