Hashem commands each and every Jew to write his own Sefer Torah. One would think that being born and raised in a frum, observant, Torah-guided home would be sufficient. Why is it necessary to write/commission the writing of a personal Sefer Torah? The Melitzer Rebbe, Shlita, explains that, while it is certainly laudable for someone born into and raised in a Torah-oriented environment to continue along the lines of his upbringing by perpetrating and adhering to the lessons and guidelines of the education he received, it is not the same as taking one’s own initiative and forging a path of his own based upon the foundation of his youth. The reason is quite simple. In order to bequeath the mesorah, tradition, to the next generation, it is crucial that one’s observance not be based upon complacent obedience, acquiescing to the way in which one was raised. Everyone is mandated to do his “own thing,” to innovate, supplement and strengthen his avodas Hashem, service to the Almighty. One who simply follows is unable to lead.
Thus, one who writes his own Sefer Torah, who shows that he is willing to spend a large sum of money to have a Torah written, shows that he is building upon the foundation of the past. He is ensured that the next generation will learn from his example and, likewise, demonstrate its own love of Torah.
Sadly, relying on the fact that one is born into a frum home and raised in a frum environment is no longer a guarantee that his obedience to Torah will continue. So much is going on in today’s society that the best parents in the best home will find it challenging to inculcate their children with enduring Torah chinuch. Children must see and feel palpable love for Torah and mitzvos. Excitement and enthusiasm for religious observance must resonate throughout the home, and the supremacy of a Torah life must be its hallmark. Being born and raised frum might give one the pole position, but it is a far cry from successfully completing the “race.”
