We should also add to the above Shailot the many references of the joy of learning Torah. One we often expressed the following Purim question (On the Purim Spirit special):
“Q. 4898 - This is Not a Joke. Q. See question above. Can one prepare Purim jokes and funny stories while in the bathroom?
A. On question 1278, we mentioned that Horav Shlomo Miller’s Shlit’a opinion is that if you are repeating or thinking of verses and words of our sages, albeit in a nonsensical and ludicrous content, it would be still prohibited while being in an improper location.
The same would apply to reading kosher jokes and funny stories in the bathroom.
As the Talmud (Shabbos 30b) teaches, that Rava, before beginning a lecture would tell a “Milsa D’bedichusa,” a humorous story or witticism that would make people laugh and also catch their attention.
Meforshim point out that it was a real part of the Torah learning experience, that should be truly performed with great Simcha and joy. (See Menuchas Sholom p. 48 and others.)
Rabbi A. Bartfeld as revised by Horav Dovid Pam, Horav Aharon Miller, Horav Chanoch Ehrentreu and Horav Kalman Ochs Shlit’a
Important Numbers
