The Monday morning after the dinner, a yeshivah parent stopped by the office with an envelope

Like so many other prominent mosdos, Yeshiva Darchei Torah held its annual dinner virtually, and one part of that different-style program featured a talmid interviewing Rosh Yeshivah Rabbi Yaakov Bender, asking questions about the yeshivah’s evolution.

At one point, the young man asked from whom the Rosh Yeshivah sought guidance in the early years, and if he remembers what types of questions arose. Rabbi Bender recalled one particular incident. It was during a difficult fundraising period for the yeshivah, and preparations were underway for its annual bike-a-thon, where talmidim cycle around one of Far Rockaway’s main thoroughfares, sponsored per lap by neighbors and relatives. On a whim, one of the yeshivah parents encouraged Rabbi Bender to join the ride for 100 laps, offering a $10,000 check if the Rosh Yeshivah would meet his challenge.

Rabbi Bender was tempted to do it despite the discomfort — at that time, $10,000 could cover two full payrolls. He asked Rav Avrohom Yaakov Pam but the answer was no. Rav Pam was unequivocal that a talmid chacham and mechanech represents Torah and cannot cheapen its luster, even for much-needed funds.

The interviewer smiled and the conversation continued, but the Monday morning after the dinner, a yeshivah parent stopped by the office with an envelope.

Inside was a $10,000 check, acknowledging the decision of nearly 40 years ago and the kavod haTorah it has spawned since.

(Originally featured in Mishpacha, Issue 846)