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This website was created as a free, public reference for Judaic study,
including interactive forums for discussions and activism relevant to the
Jewish community. Mesora invites anyone wishing to examine and understand
the ideals of Torah intelligently to freely use our website. We are
non-denominational, meaning, we do not favor an idea based on the
supporting group, but on the rationality and truth contained, and its
compliance with the Jewish fundamentals transmitted by our leaders, such as
Maimonides, Nachmanides, Ibn Ezra, Rashi, Tosafos, and Saadia Gaon. We will
be honest, and address ideas we view as incorrect, be they promoted by
Orthodox, Reformed, Conservative or Chassidic Jews. We hope to make the
universally accepted fundamentals clear to all, and invite your feedback or
corrections.
 Our
references are the Talmud, Chumash (Bible) and Rishonim, those universaly
accepted "Jewish" sources. If Rashi or Rambam address an issue in
Chumash or Talmud, we will strive to gain insight into their intent until
it is clear to us, as they are the accepted recipients of our Mesora - the
Oral Law/Tradition - originating from Moses. A view should be recognized as
valid when based on rational investigation and interpretation of recognized
sources. Our approach is an honest and straight forward one.
Conversely, our acceptance of an idea or law as authentic Mesora
(tradition) is not based on popularity among the masses. It must be popular
among the recipients of the Mesora, such as Rashi, Rambam, Ramban and the
like. This in no way validates that idea or action. In the event that we
don't find satisfactory explanations for specific topics, we will research
ourselves, and use our intellect to determine the truth, as this is what
the Creator has given us. The Rishonim hold that merely accepting what the
Rabbis say without striving to understand with our minds is the furthest
thing from the truth. Judaism is based on knowledge. An honest approach
which demands conviction - an attitude which can only be reached by clear,
rational arguments as exemplified by the Tanaim and Amoraim, the doctors of
the Talmud.
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Many of our beliefs and practices over the years have unfortunately,
become diluted by misconception and misunderstanding. This is due to a lack
of patient committment to learning. Opinions based on mass appeal are
widespread today, which has lead our people to believe anything that is
accepted. As it is stated in Devarim (Deuteronomy) 17:11, "According
to the Torah which they teach you, and in accordance with the judgements
which they tell you, you should perform. Do not veer from the matter which
they tell you to the right or the left."
All of these great men have stressed the importance of each and every
person using their minds to understand our heritage. As King Solomon
stated, "If you dig for it like silver, and search it out like a
buried treasure, then you will understand the fear of G-d, and the
knowledge of G-d will you find" (Proverbs, 2:4-5).
Wisdom is available to all, but earnest analysis is essential in
obtaining it. This was stated by King Solomon, one of the wisest men to
live. The Torah states in Devarim (Deuteronomy) 4:6: "(The other
nations) which shall hear all those statutes (Chukim), and say,
"surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people."
The nations of the world will see (even through our Chukim) that we are an
understanding people. If the nations can see wisdom in our laws, aren't we
obligated to understand them as well?
We are not functioning as a source for rulings (p'sak) regarding Halacha
(Jewish Law). One should follow the rulings of one's Rabbi. We hope our
sincere intent will be appreciated as we serve the Jewish community as an
objective voice of Jewish thought.
Rabbi Moshe Ben-Chaim
Founder
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