Question:
Does the Rav think that just as we need to create programs of self-awareness where people can learn about the soul and its abilities [as the Rav has been teaching about for two decades], so too there is a need to create some kind of curriculum or education where people can learn about how we absolutely must lead an Internet-free life, why Internet is evil no matter how many good things come from it and how they can develop the mesirus nefesh to keep away from it at all costs, etc.? Can we create such an education?
Answer:
Yes, but the focus would have to be on connecting to the good and the holiness that’s available today: To connect to the 50th level of kedushah (holiness) today, and not to only talk about how bad the Internet is. Because if our main discussions are simply on how the Internet is bad, or if we overdo these kinds of discussions, it can actually cause a person to fall even more into it [just by thinking all the time about how it’s evil]. That is why our main focus needs to be on connecting to the good to replace the Internet: To connect to the 50th level of kedushah that’s available today.
[Editor's Note: In a different response, the Rav explained that there are different ways of how to connect to the 50th level of kedushah today and thereby be empowered to withstand the test with the Internet. (1) Emunah peshutah, simple faith in Hashem. (2) P’shitus and temimus, following the Torah simply and loyally. (2) Learning a comprehensive approach of all areas of Torah and avodah when it comes to any matter. This is called holy “complexity” which can counter the complex plans of the Other Side, the evil complexity. (3) Believing in Ain Od Milvado, as explained in Nefesh HaChaim Shaar III.
Categories
