Great Work to Say Torah Even to One,

134 - Great Work to Say Torah Even to One, All the More to Many Teaching Torah—even to a single individual—is a great work. Even more so to many. A teacher must exercise extreme care not to convey concepts beyond the listener’s capacity, for such teaching is likened to licentiousness: it misplaces the intellect, producing no fruit or, worse, harmful distortions. At times it is called literal licentiousness—leading to defective outcomes—since the recipient performs acts beyond their level, neither needed nor helpful. Therefore, when teaching Torah publicly, one must ensure that each person receives only what they can internalize—not more. Though all hear equally, only each one who is prepared truly “hears.” As it says: “And Jethro heard…” (Exodus 18:1)—everyone heard, but only Jethro grasped. The Zohar (Tetzaveh 186a) remarks, “Fortunate is the one who speaks at the ear that hears.” Further, the teaching in Sukkah 52a: “Anyone greater than his fellow—his inclination is greater than him”—emphasizes that greatness comes with stronger temptations. One of elevated stature must therefore safeguard and balance his speech accordingly. Explanation: Improper instruction is compared to licentiousness because it plants knowledge into an unprepared mind, resulting in no growth—or even harm. The teacher must tailor Torah thoughtfully. When teaching crowds, speech should naturally “divide”—each person receives only what suits them. The example of Jethro demonstrates that though many heard, only he truly internalized. The caution from Sukkah 52a further underscores the responsibility of the exalted: greater spiritual status brings stronger challenges, requiring measured and mindful instruction.