HaRav Chizkiyahu Mishkovsky, HaRav Avrohom Kook, HaRav Gershon Edelstein and HaRav Tzvi Drabkin
A delegation of roshei yeshivos from the Ichud Bnei HaYeshivos visited HaRav Gershon Edelstein at his home to discuss and hear from him recommendations for conduct in bein hazmanim. Those attending and raising the issues were led by HaRav Chizkiyahu Mishkovsky, HaRav Avrohom Yitzchok Hakohen Kook and HaRav Tzvi Drabkin, but other roshei yeshiva were also in attendance.
In response to the question, "What should one learn during bein hazmanim?" the Rosh Yeshiva said, "The gemora says that we should learn according to our desire and our nature, because that is what attracts us, and gives us cheishek to learn. Even during the rest of the year there are no absolute rules for this, and each bochur should learn according to his individual nature. Some bochurim learn Shas and they know it. There is one bochur in our yeshiva who is in Shiur Alef and he has already finished Shas. Many bochurim enjoy this approach."
The also asked about a bochur who wants to learn a full day, even during bein hazmanim. Should he be told to take it easy a bit? Maran Rosh Hayeshiva answered, "There are some who become a little weakened from extended learning. One who does not sleep enough, or rest his mind, will get weaker. One has to rest also. But clearly one who does not become weakened and is able to learn, should do this. But he should learn new and interesting things to give him some relief."
In the course of the conversation the issue was raised about a letter written some years ago by the roshei yeshiva of the day, which says that bochurim should learn at least 4 hours a day during the bein hazmanim, and whether this is still appropriate today. Maran shlita answered that 4 hours is the minimum and it is the amount set for someone who has difficulty learning more. But if this is not the case, one should learn more.
In relating to the question of whether we should strengthen and raise the bochurim in these days, Maran said, "Bnei hayeshiva give merit to the entire world. In Bein Hazmanim there is more danger of accidents because there is less Torah. One should know that learning Torah protects the whole world."
