The Shechinah is with 1,2,3 & 10. I understand the difference between 1 & 2, 2 & 3 and 3 & 10. But what is the difference between 2 & 10?
Why not just say, 1, 2 & 3 and then we can assume that the Shechinah is obviously with 10.
I thought it was because 2 is like 3 and the Shechinah is not waiting. But then I read that va'Yakshev is to be understood as "Waited"
Thanks!
Daniel, Manchester, England
Dear Daniel,
Your question is based on Rashi DH vaYakshev. What is Rashi explaining? The Gemara wants to show that the Shechinah is there with the 2 Torah learners. The source is the Pasuk: vaYakshev vaYishma. The word vaYakshev is not enough of a proof- it could mean to hear from a distance, but vaYakshev means that the Shechinah is there with them. Mamtin Lahem Sham does not mean He is "waiting" from before-only that He is staying and delaying with them (in their place) now. There is no evidence that the Shechinah is there earlier with 2 people.
This is also the meaning at the top of the Amud that he who "delays" with the late-comer receives a blessing. The emphasis is that he remains now with him and not neccesarily that he came before.
All the best,
Reuven Weiner