Reply To: Is it proper for an adult to drink from a water fountain?

One of the major differences between how traditionally some Ashkenazim and Sephardim conceive of talmud torah is the attention placed on the study of Mikra. In turn, there are practical ramifications of this on how differing religious imperatives, ethics, and emphases are developed. For instance, Nach was essential limud for Rav SR Hirsch, and for Hirschians, ethics and prophetic religious ideals are essential, whereas for those who believe (as did R’Tam) that Talmud study encompasses Mikra, there is less of an open and cultured religious emphasis as among Hirschians and Sephardim.