From: Brian N. Frye in Fort Worth, Texas

Dear Rabbi,

What does being a rabbi mean? What training is required to become ordained/certified? What does being a rabbi entail?

Dear Brian,

Thanks for your interest.

The word rabbi comes from the Aramaic word rabi, and is related to the Hebrew word for “great”. Rabi was thus the title reserved for the great Talmudic Sages who received their ordination in an uninterrupted tradition going back to Moses. Unfortunately, this tradition was severed when the Jews were exiled from the Land of Israel.

Nevertheless, even in the Diaspora, the terms rav, rebbe, and rabbi were used for outstanding Torah scholars who by virtue of their piety and knowledge, were natural leaders of their communities. Historically, then, there was no formal rabbinic training. Rather, all Jews were expected to learn the sacred texts, which through life-long study, perfect one’s personality traits and sensitivity to human nature, while honing one’s analytical skills and amassing knowledge of Jewish Law. Individuals who excelled in their study and practice of Judaism were therefore recognized as rabbis.

In recent times, it has become common for Torah scholars to undergo rigorous training in specific areas of Jewish Law such as monetary matters, marriage and divorce, dietary laws, the Sabbath, and more. Upon completion of the program and successfully passing the exams, one receives rabbinical certification.

In light of the above, being a rabbi first and foremost entails being a good person, being considerate and sensitive to people’s needs, and eager to perform acts of kindness. It also entails learning and practicing Judaism with a genuine enthusiasm that inspires others to do the same. As a leader, being a rabbi entails sharing one’s knowledge with others, either by teaching them Torah, or by instructing them in the practical observance of Jewish Law. Finally, a rabbi should also have the common sense and insight needed to help guide people through the myriad challenges in life, helping them utilize each one for personal growth.