A Talmid Is Always a Son

Chazal teach that the word “sons” in “and you shall teach them to your sons” refers to talmidim. Rav Ruderman asked why the pasuk does not simply say “your pupils.” He answered that it teaches us that talmidim are like sons. A son remains a son forever, and in the same way a talmid remains a talmid. A Rebbe must never think his talmid is dear to him only while he is under his guidance, and that the bond ends when that period ends. The truth is far greater. Once a person becomes a talmid, he becomes his Rebbe’s son, and even when he goes his own way, the bond should not weaken.