A unique and carefully structured program was developed to guide systematic annual study of the entire Shas with the aim of knowing Torah she’be’al peh – by heart. The talmidei chachomim would be paid respectable stipends to help relieve them of pressing financial worries so that they could dedicate themselves each-and-every day of the year to the study of Talmud Bavli. They would sit for regular detailed tests – oral and in writing – given by leading scholars in the Torah world. They would have a kinyan (bond) with, and detailed knowledge of, every single page of the Talmud with Rashi and Tosfos.
