I have a question. It’s a bit cynical, but very true.
If this was what G-d had in mind, that all people should study Torah at all times, living off the generosity of others, how then would anyone survive? If all people were participating in full-time Torah study, who then would be making money to support those who study Torah?? And please don’t say the women; women in the workforce is a relatively new phenomenon. Up until the industrial revolution (and really much longer), women stayed home with children and took care of the home. This was not demeaning, just that all livelihood came from working the fields and other forms of heavy physical labor. And even in today’s society, most families require both spouses to work in order to make ends meet.
This whole concept of Kollel is brand new and for some reason is completely overblown. Only the MOST studious, sincere, and capable people are really worthy of public funds to support them so that they can study Torah. There is no shame in working for an honest living. Rabbi Tarfon and Rabbi Yehuda Hanassi were two of the wealthiest people to ever live. Those are just the first two to come to mind, but there are COUNTLESS others who are from the greatest Jews in history and worked an honest living while still transforming themselves into Gedolei Hador. Learning in Kollel for the satisfaction of OTHERS is silly and ultimately counter-productive. What is wrong with being on the other side of the equation, working to make a living, be a righteous Jew, and help support those who are willing to make the sacrifice?
It’s better to be part of the solution than the problem.
Just saying.