As the bein hazmanim approaches, the Roshei Yeshivos are again warning about the dangers that come up within and without. They warn especially about homes in which forbidden technological devices are present, and also the false opinions that are sometimes expressed at various panels and symposiums.
The roshei yeshiva appeal to the parents of their students to be on constant vigil in maintaining the safeguards established by Torah leaders in these matters, as well to monitor their going to vacation sites which do not conform to the spirit of Torah, and to beware of the various serious dangers to body and soul regarding outings without proper care and adequate supervision.
A letter written by Maran HaRav Eliashiv zt"l and ylct"a the Rosh Yeshiva HaRav Shteinman in Nisan 5769 read: "In previous years we have stated our opinion on the danger involved in trips, and since an entire week without yeshiva study remains, and this is liable to cause the time to be used for dangers chas vesholom, we are issuing a warning to avoid this very carefully...And those who do not endanger themselves merit the words of the verse, `Hashem yishmerecho mikol ro, yishmor es nafshecho.'
"The upcoming days of rest and recuperation which come to add strength for Torah study should, chas vesholom not result in the very opposite, especially in these times when decadence and depravity have reached a very low level. One must fortify himself exceedingly in maintaining those safeguards as already enumerated, and refraining from questionable tours and excursions, as well as renting vacation cottages which are outside of the yeshiva or family structure etc. It is well known the harmful inroads created by not preserving those safeguards which are too painful to enumerate, besides which those trips often result in danger to lives. Those yeshivos who organize such trips should make sure that the organizers maintain the proper yeshiva spirit to the full sanction and satisfaction of the yeshiva administration."
This letter was signed by HaRav Yosef Shalom Eliashiv zt"l and HaRav Aharon Leib Shteinman.
Also signed in his own hand was a postscript by HaRav Michel Yehuda Lefkowitz zt"l. "In the above plea to maintain the proper structure for vacation of the yeshivos, there is much to be added, that much irreparable damage is often caused by bringing programs and lectures which we do not approve of. Sometimes, the very sight of such faces can leave a lingering taint of contamination upon the innocent ones.
"Signed in the hope that these words and requests be duly implemented."
