The rabbi is the leader of a Jewish community.
Rabbis are the leaders of the Jewish community . These are teachers who, thanks to their studies, are in charge of interpreting the texts considered sacred by this community .
Before entering fully into establishing the meaning of the term, it is necessary to know its etymological origin. In this sense, we can say that it is a word that comes from the Hebrew rabbi , which means "teacher" , and that, in turn, derives from another of the same language: rab , which is synonymous with "outstanding" .
Responsibilities of a Rabbi
A rabbi, therefore, is a Jewish authority . In order to be in charge of a synagogue , rabbis must complete different studies, take exams and speak Hebrew , among other requirements.
Among the rabbi's responsibilities is teaching the Torah , something that is equivalent to spreading the principles of Judaism. This work can only be carried out by a specialist in philosophy and Jewish texts, since rabbis cannot use any other source beyond the Torah to disseminate the doctrine .
Deep knowledge of the sacred Jewish texts is essential not only for literal teaching and dissemination: the rabbi must be able to apply those ancient texts today, finding in the words of the Torah the solution to current problems. .
A rabbi, on the other hand, must lead a life in accordance with all the rules that are part of Jewish law . Its existence, therefore, has to be guided by that code . Although there are no age or marital status requirements to become a rabbi, married men are often preferred.
A rabbi must study the Torah.
Its function
Therefore, we can establish that currently the rabbi is an authority within Judaism that is characterized by undertaking the following actions:
- Establish the Jewish law that must be followed within the community to which it belongs, since it is the highest religious authority in it.
- Teach and explain what it means to comply with the established precepts.
- He must always be at the service of people who seek his advice, his comfort or his help, especially the needy and the sick, for example.
- Lead by example when following the path outlined in the Torah.
- Coordinate the different areas that come to shape the community to which it belongs.
- Work so that all members of the community participate in its life and so that no one feels isolated.
- Keep the aforementioned community united. All this makes him not only the spiritual guide but also the teacher, the judge and even the director.
Rabbis, in short, are spiritual guides, teachers and advisors to the members of the Jewish community. They are responsible for teaching the precepts of religion to the faithful and providing recommendations and assistance.