Respect for the elderly
Among the various mitzvot listed in Parshat Kedoshim is the requirement to stand up and show respect for the elderly (see Vayikra 19:32). Significantly, this verse concludes with the words, “and you should revere your God; I am the Lord” (ibid.) which prompts our Sages (see Kiddushin 32b) to wonder what additional point is being made here?
They answer by explaining that this additional phrase refers to those who wish to close their eyes to avoid seeing an elder approaching them and thereby avoid the need to revere them. Instead, as Rashi explains, such an individual ‘should have feared the Creator who knows your thoughts [and who is aware of how you are] seeking strategies to become exempt from his commandments.’
In halacha
In terms of halacha, the Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh Deah 244:3) firmly rules that, ‘it is forbidden to close one’s eyes prior to coming within four amot [of an elderly person] in order to avoid the need to stand up for them [and show respect towards them]’.
However, as Rabbi Daniel Z. Feldman explains in his recently published ‘Letter and Spirit: Evasion, Avoidance and Workarounds in the Halakhic System’ (Maggid, 2024), this law serves as an example of how we shouldn’t avoid or evade the performance of mitzvot.
At the same time, as Rabbi Feldman explains throughout his book, there have been times when certain workarounds have been justified to avoid or evade the fullfilment of certain laws. Given this, why – specifically – are our Sages so insistent that we not avoid this particular law?
Increasing love of Torah
Rabbi Feldman answers by quoting Rabbi Yosef Shaul Nathanson (Responsa Shoel U’Meishiv, telita’ah I No. 120) who explains that ‘this commandment is specifically centered on increasing the love one has for the Torah and its scholars, and accordingly, actively embracing the opportunity is a part of its directive’ (Letter and Spirit p. 12).
Overall, what this teaches us is that while we should strive to fulfil all the commandments, though some may be side-stepped in certain situations, some – which go to the core of our values and beliefs – may not.
Shabbat Shalom!