Question:

Last week you explained that while the fundamental structure for Judaism was given in a written form ("The Written Law"), the explanation and elucidation of the Mitzvot was transmitted orally ("The Oral Law"). What I struggle to understand is why G-d deemed it necessary to have this "oral" side to the Torah. Isn't a law written "in black and white" the best way to allay any opportunity for doubt and misunderstanding?

Answer:

There are a number of explanations, let me share two with you:(a) An expensive-looking locked bag lies in the lobby of a bank waiting for its rightful owner to come forward. Many people try to claim the bag - one tries a key only to figure it's got a combination, another tries a code but cannot open it. Eventually an individual comes along, punches in a code that he recalls from the back of his mind and the bag pops open. It is obvious to all that this fellow is the rightful owner of the bag. The bible is a book accepted by all mankind but it is like a locked bag. G-d wanted to give us a tool that displays our unique ownership of the torah. He thus gave us the "oral law". The mere ability to open the "locked" Torah through the oral explanation displays our unique ownership to that which is otherwise a closed, incomprehensible book. (b) G-d desired the involvement of man. Had there not been an "oral law", the torah would have lacked the participation and partnership of man. The transmission of an "oral law" requires more effort and responsibility on man's part than for that which is clearly written. G-d wanted torah study and transmission to be active, not just a passive experience. He therefore gave us a responsibility of transmitting the torah to the next generation, thus making us "junior partners" in the development of torah.

Let's strengthen ourselves in all areas of Torah study thus making Judaism a truly active experience.

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