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Did the Tzadikim reject all oral tradition, or only when it contradicted explicit Torah (תורה) text? The shiur traces this dispute to Antigonus of Socho's teaching about serving without expectation of reward. Tzadikim maintained an 'arm's length' contractual relationship with Hashem (ה׳), while Perushim understood we belong entirely to Him as devoted servants.
This shiur provides a comprehensive reexamination of the classical understanding of the Tzadikim-Perushim controversy. Rather than the simplistic view taught that Tzadikim rejected Torah (תורה) Shebe'al Peh entirely, the Rav demonstrates that both groups accepted the oral tradition where it explained ambiguous Torah passages. The real dispute emerged when Torah Shebe'al Peh appeared to contradict the literal Torah text. The Rav addresses several difficulties with the traditional understanding: How could Tzadikim observe Shabbos (שבת), perform brit milah, or wear tefillin without Torah Shebe'al Peh? The answer is that Tzadikim were 'strict constructionists' who accepted oral tradition for clarification but rejected rabbinic interpretations that seemed to contradict explicit verses.
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Yoma 19b (Kohen Gadol oath), Menachos 65a (Sefirat HaOmer dispute)
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