Question:
We see that when the Jews entered Eretz Yisroel, they translated the Torah into the 70 languages, which seemingly tells us that the non-Jews should learn the Torah. On the other hand, when Ptolemy had the Chachamim translate the Torah, it was looked at as a terrible catastrophe. This seems to say that a non-Jew learning the Torah is a bad thing. Plus we have a Gemara that says that a non-Jew who learns Torah is Chayav Meesa. Thus, what is going on and how can we reconcile these 2 seemingly contradictory sources?
Answer:
Thank you for your question.
You are raising a good point. There is however a fundamental difference between what Ptolemy did and what Yehoshua did. Yehoshua translated the torah into 70 languages in order for the Jews in all situations and countries to be able to have access to our beloved Torah. In fact, Onkelos translated the Torah, and there was nothing wrong with what he did. Ptolemy on the other hand wanted the torah translated in order for the gentiles to have access to it the same way Jews do. In other words to make a statement that the torah is not exclusively for Jews. The Torah is a special gift the Hashem gave to Klal Yisroel, as part of the special bond of love between Hashem and the Jews. It is written “תורה צוה לנו משה מורשה קהילת יעקב”, Chazal learn from this verse that only is the Torah an inheritance (ירושה), but it is also considered ((מאורסה betrothed, and like a wife to Klal Yisroel. When Ptolemy translated the Torah he wanted to break this special relationship and this is why a non-Jew who learns torah is chayav misa.
Best wishes
