(i) Question (Rav Chisda): What do we learn from "Ohev Hash-m Sha'arei Tziyon mi'Kol Mishkenos Yakov"?
(j) Answer: Hash-m loves places where learning leads to definitive Halachah, more than all the synagogues and Batei Medrash.
Does learning Daf Yomi fall into this category of learning that Hash-m loves? I learn Daf Yomi on a very simple level because of my ability to learn and in general most people don't learn Gemara or Chumash to derive at Halachic decisions. What is said about the learning that we do is it not loved by Hash-m? How is this line in the Daf meant to be explained? Should we be learning Gemarah to develop definitive Halachas?
Thanks for your help. This is my first attempt at learning Daf Yomi. I sit in a shiur and use an artscroll. I don't yet know how to find other sources that explain the daf so your assistance is greatly appreciated.
Liad Maccabi, Cedarhurst, USA
Dear Liad,
You have a good point there. Dafyomi is a wonderful method of review for somebody who has already learned a lot of Gemara. It is also great for improving one's general knowledge. It is not however, a substitute for in-depth learning.
I do not know how much time you spend learning Torah, nor what other Shi'urim are available in your area. I would advise you, if possible, to also join a Shi'ur that covers less but goes into more depth, or/and to find a way to learn practical Halachos (which as you correctly pointed out, is vital).
Incidentally, some Dafyomi groups learn the practical Halachos discussed in the Daf as well. If you can find such a group, you may easily fit into the category of "Sha'arei Tziyon".
In conclusion, it might be a good idea to discuss your situation with a Rabbi or someone else who knows both you and the available Torah Shi'urim in your area.
Kol Tuv.
Eliezer Chrysler