A Page in Your Heart: Ten Reasons to Learn Mishna by Heart

In his sefer Torat HaBayit, the Chafetz Chaim passionately encourages every Jew to memorize at least one masechet (tractate) of Mishnah or Gemara, or even one seder (order) of Mishnayot. He explains that this process transforms a person’s Torah study into a lifelong treasure. Here are ten profound reasons for making Torah part of your memory—and your soul:

1. Engraving the Torah on Your Heart
By committing Torah to memory, a person fulfills the verse, “And these words that I command you today shall be upon your heart.” The Chafetz Chaim explains this literally—when you know Torah by heart, it becomes engraved upon your soul.

2. Protection from the Yetzer Hara (Evil Inclination)
Quoting the Sages, the Chafetz Chaim writes that when Torah is in your heart, it drives out harmful and impure thoughts. “The yetzer hara dwells only in a heart that is empty of wisdom,” he says. When you fill your heart with Torah, there's no room for negative impulses.

3. Fulfilling the Mitzvah of Torah Study at All Times
When Torah is in your mind, you can fulfill the mitzvah of “and you shall speak of them… when you walk on the way”—even without a book in hand. The Chafetz Chaim notes how often people lack the time, energy, or proper environment to open a book and learn. By memorizing Torah, you can review and learn while walking, resting, or even waiting in line.

4. Earning a Share in the World to Come
The Zohar states: “One who acquires a masechet inherits a world.” The Chafetz Chaim clarifies that this refers to someone who masters a masechet deeply, not merely studies it once. Real reward comes to those who repeat and internalize their learning until it is at their fingertips.

5. Honor in the Heavenly Court
The Sages teach that in the Heavenly Court it is announced: “Fortunate is the one who comes here with his Torah in hand.” The Chafetz Chaim explains that this refers to someone whose Torah is memorized and internalized.

6. A Personal Advocate for the Afterlife
Every word of Torah that you learn becomes a personal spiritual defense. The Chafetz Chaim takes this further and explains that when someone masters an entire masechet—it becomes a powerful advocate that protects the soul from harsh judgment and lifts it toward eternal life.

7. A Lifelong Companion 
This practice is not only for the young. In fact, the Chafetz Chaim especially recommends it for older individuals. As one's eyesight weakens or access to books becomes more difficult, memorized Torah becomes an ongoing source of learning and meaning.

8. You’ll Have What to Answer in Heaven
When a soul stands before the Heavenly Court and is asked, “Recite the verses you studied and the mishnayot you learned,” the Chafetz Chaim says it’s important to be able to answer. If you memorize a masechet, you’ll have a meaningful response.

9. Protection from Gehinom (Purgatory)
The Chafetz Chaim notes the spiritual power of Mishnah, the foundation of the Oral Torah. Chazal teach that one who is fluent in mishnayot will not see the face of Gehinom.

10. How to Acquire Mastery of a Masechet
The Chafetz Chaim gives practical advice: Don’t try to memorize large portions all at once. Instead, follow our Sages' guidance—learn small sections and repeat them thoroughly. Alongside your regular learning, choose one daf (page) of Gemara or one perek (chapter) of Mishnah each week to memorize. Over time, you’ll build a reservoir of Torah within your mind and heart.