In Jewish tradition, there is a powerful concept that continues to inspire and motivate us: "Dovav Siftei Yeshenim"—"the lips of the sleeping whisper." This beautiful phrase is explained by our Sages (Yevamot 96a) to mean that whenever a Torah scholar’s teachings are repeated in this world, even after their passing, their lips move in the grave. It’s as if they continue speaking words of Torah, gaining eternal pleasure and merit from the study of their teachings. The Yerushalmi in Shekalim (2:5) adds that this pleasure is like drinking the finest spiced wine. Imagine, even in the afterlife, a Torah scholar continues to benefit from the wisdom they shared during their lifetime.
Given this profound idea, anyone blessed with knowledge and insight is encouraged to share it with the world. Whether through writing, teaching, or publishing, by spreading Torah, a person not only helps others but also creates an ongoing legacy. This legacy ensures that their words will continue to echo for generations, bringing them merit and joy even after they leave this world. In essence, they eat the fruits of their labor, as their lips "whisper" Torah from the grave.
One of the greatest acts of kindness a person can perform is to study and teach the words of our holy tzaddikim (righteous ones). By preserving and spreading their teachings, we protect their legacy and honor their lives. It’s more than just learning—it’s an act of chesed (kindness) that benefits both the living and the departed.
There’s a remarkable story in the writings that illustrates the power of learning from great Torah scholars. During a time of persecution, Rabbi Moshe Alshich, a great Torah sage, appeared in a vision to someone and saved them from danger. The reason? This person had been studying Rabbi Alshich’s works with dedication. It wasn’t just about reading the words; it was about making them alive, part of their daily life. And the reward for such dedication was nothing less than salvation.
In fact, the more effort you put into understanding and explaining the words of the great scholars, the more pleasure they derive. The famous *Maggid Meisharim* (Parashat Vayakhel) records that the Rambam himself acted as an advocate in the heavenly realms for Rabbi Yosef Karo, the *Beit Yosef*, because he worked so hard to clarify and defend the Rambam’s teachings. Similarly, it's mentioned that when Rabbi Shlomo Luria, known as the *Maharshal*, worked to explain Rashi’s commentary, Rashi appeared at his funeral to accompany him to the next world.
Therefore, it is a tremendous merit to learn the words of the early sages, to study the teachings of the Tannaim, Amoraim, and the later rabbinic authorities. Their merit rises and shields those who engage with their words. It’s especially beneficial to work through the difficult passages and resolve any challenges in their teachings, ensuring that their wisdom continues to shine brightly.
This responsibility falls especially on the descendants of these great scholars. If your ancestor authored a Torah work, it is your duty to study their teachings, explain them, and share them with others. In doing so, you bring pleasure to your ancestors, and in turn, they advocate on your behalf in the heavenly realms, just as a parent shows compassion to their child. Rabbi Avraham Azulai, in the introduction to *Chesed L’Avraham*, emphasizes the great merit of descendants studying the works of their ancestors.
The same applies to the community of a Torah scholar. It is a mitzvah for the members of the community to learn and repeat their rabbi's teachings, to sing their praises, and to keep their words alive. By doing so, the merit of the Torah scholar protects the entire community, enveloping them in blessings and safeguarding them throughout the day.
In essence, studying and teaching Torah is not just a personal journey—it is a way to honor and protect the legacy of our holy sages, ensuring that their words live on for generations. The impact of their teachings transcends time, continuing to inspire, guide, and protect us, even as their lips whisper Torah from beyond the grave. By engaging with their wisdom, we elevate our own lives and bring joy and merit to those who came before us.
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