DEUT474 Cleave to Torah scholars. … it enables us to learn the ways of Hashem. One violates this precept if one does not form close associations with Torah scholars, or does not fix love for them in his heart, or does not make efforts to promote their welfare when he is able to do so. He nullifies a positive commandment of the Torah. His punishment is very great, for Torah scholars uphold the Torah, keeping it strong, and because of them, many souls are saved. All who accustom themselves to being close to Torah scholars are much less likely to sin.