Mishmeres HaSholom: Ask the Rav

Q: I am a student in a cheder and wanted to ask: My rebbi summarizes the Gemara on the board, but it is difficult for us to understand because his handwriting is unclear.

If my parents ask me why my notebook is empty, am I permitted to say that it is because of my rebbi’s unclear handwriting, or would it constitute lashon hara? (I must note that the whole class is aware that the rebbi’s handwriting is unclear.)

Is there a difference regarding this halachah between a teacher of children under bar mitzvah and those over bar mitzvah?

A: Based on the description in the question, it seems that it is permissible for you to tell your parents that you didn’t copy from the board because it is difficult to decipher the rebbi’s handwriting. This holds true for two reasons: (1) It is public knowledge among the students, and you do not intend to publicize your rebbi’s issue. You are only saying this in order to justify yourself. (2) Even if there was a concern of lashon hara, you would be allowed to share the information with your parents for the constructive purpose of rectifying the matter by discussing it with the rebbi, etc. — by your parents suggesting that the rebbi let someone else write on the board or find another solution. Of course, you must intend the constructive purpose and not exaggerate.

There is no differentiation between children under or over bar-mitzvah age.

It should be noted that when your parents listen to your complaint, they should first inquire how other students in the class manage. If all the others manage to copy from the board, and only you are finding it difficult, it is possible that: (1) You need eyeglasses, and your eyesight should be tested. (2) The other students are working hard at deciphering the handwriting and succeeding, but you aren’t willing to expend effort, or you decided not to work along with this rebbi. If this is the case, then your parents should encourage you to work hard like the other students in the class.

The questions and answers above were taken from the Mishmeres Hasholom pamphlet in Israel. For details and inquiries please e-mail us at office@hasholom.org or call 972-2 5379160.

The views expressed are of the individual author. Readers are encouraged to consult their own posek for guidance.