By this time the quarrelsome mitnagdim were all but
repudiated; at any rate the animosity was limited to the hard-core of bitter
foes. The second group (see above ch. 4)—those who dispassionately questioned
the principles of Chasidus, believing that they were doing so sincerely, not
maliciously—became active. Nonetheless, though presented calmly and rationally,
their questions were still deprecatory of Chasidus. All their questions and
observations revolved on two points: 1) the objection to engaging in
“esoterics,” and 2) the incapacity of the human mind to understand such subjects
clearly, leading to the possibility of misconception and consequent calamitous
results.
Thank G-d, none of these objections made any impression, for
there were always chasidim of stature who completely dispelled every doubt and
objection.
But all these debates took place more than fifty years ago.
Then questions were posed1 regarding the need for Chasidus and the
benefits of the chasidic lifestyle. The past fifty years have proven
conclusively that Chasidus is indispensable in Jewish life.
Analogously, the study of Musar in yeshivot had been
strenuously opposed by contemporary gaonim. Late in 1895, I was present
at a meeting of the leading scholars of the day, including most of the
Lithuanian yeshiva deans. The question of formal Musar study arose. Out
of respect, I will refrain from mentioning the names of the opponents to this
program and their outspoken opposition. Experience has vindicated Musar study.
It is a verifiable fact that every yeshiva with a program of Musar study,
especially those headed by a menahel ruchni (spiritual mentor), produced
more righteous and G-d-fearing pupils than those yeshivot without such
Musar sessions.
The proof is evident and alive. A generation ago the
necessity for the study and practice of Musar principles was recognized and so,
with G-d’s help, they succeeded in training pious students. In our own day we
see that the study of Chasidus is critically necessary for most yeshiva
students. With His help we shall soon see the bright day when all truly upright
yeshivot will institute the study and practice of Chasidus.
