Rabban Yochanan Ben Zakkai Received [The Oral Tradition] From Hillel And Shammai. He Used To Say: "If You Have Studied Much Torah, Do Not Claim Special Credit For Yourself; For This Very Purpose Were You Created."

If You Have Studied Much Torah

A person should constantly seek to study "much Torah," i.e., he should always be extending himself further, to greater achievements. Since the Torah is in essence unlimited, a person should never restrict his efforts to attain it. Instead, he must constantly strive to increase his attainments.

(Sichos Shabbos Parshas Matos-Masei, 5737)

Do Not Claim Special Credit For Yourself

In essence, a person who studies the Torah has just reason to be proud: through his study, he becomes united with G-d - a bond that transcends all worldly heights.[22] Nevertheless, since this privilege is endowed by the Torah itself, and is thus not a result of his own efforts, the mishnah advises him to remain humble.

(Ibid.)

For This Very Purpose Were You Created

Creation is an ongoing process. As the Alter Rebbe writes in Tanya,[23] at each moment all existence is renewed. By emphasizing the connection between Torah study and creation, the mishnah underscores the concept that a person can never "rest on his laurels." Instead, at every moment, he must move forward, thus constantly fulfilling the purpose of his creation.

(Ibid.)

   

Notes:

22. (Back to text) See Tanya, ch. 5.

23. (Back to text) Shaar HaYichud VehaEmunah, ch. 1.