EXOD160 There are four types of behavior among those who go to the beth midrash, the House of Study: He who goes and does not act, attains reward for attending; Pirkei Avot, Perek V, mishnah 17. Our text refers to someone who has time for the beth midrash, but while there he does not act as a student. As Rashi explains, he studies and learns nothing; at best he may listen to the others, to catch a phrase or stray remark here and there, or to be entertained. As others explain our text, the man goes to the beth midrash and does study, but then makes no particular effort to put into practice what he has learned. Analogously, there is the person who supports Torah schools but himself does not study; or he holds that the ideals and teachings of these schools need not inform his personal life. Another will listen to the Rabbi's sermon and believe it addresses someone else, not him. He will master the lesson at Torah study, but will not use it to improve himself. Such people do deserve a reward for "going": They are making an effort, taking a first step, and deserve credit for as much as they do. R. Bahya notes that after Moses told the Israelites in Egypt about the paschal lamb they were to slaughter, roast, and eat, Scripture records, "And the Israelites went and did as the L-ord had commanded…" And the Midrash comments: This indicates that they received a reward for going and reward for doing [this verse. Mechilta ad loc.] Then our mishnah's point derives from the Written Torah: reward is given separately for "going"--even if the trip accomplishes little. And the reward has some justification. By going to the beth midrash, the synagogue, the Torah lecture, people help support a communal institution that is essential to keep authentic Judaism alive. If some derive less than the full benefit, others will. And being for a while in the House of Study or the synagogue, though he does not behave then or afterwards as we might expect, a person does become acclimated somewhat to its spirit and purpose. In the House of Study man hears the words of his Maker; in the House of Prayer man speaks his words to his Maker. As he sits in either, no matter how his conscious mind avoids sharing in its basic activity, his unconscious has a chance, unknown to him, to absorb, become attuned to the age-old melodies, words, perceptions of holiness appreciate these consecrated centers of our faith.