We learn Gemara, which is a strange literary work with much complexity and distraction. We as a people focus on learning Gemara because it teaches both the laws of Judaism with the values of how to be a good Jew. In doing so we join a conversation that spans generations and find our place within a chain of Mesorah.

What is the purpose of Gemara?

The Gemara, which in Aramaic means "to study and to know" is a collection of scholarly discussions on Jewish law dating from around 200 to 500AD. The discussions pick up on statements in the Mishnah (1) but refer to other works including the Torah.

Why do we learn Torah?

According to Rabbinic Judaism, the study is ideally done for the purpose of the mitzvah ("commandment") of Torah study itself. This practice is present to an extent in all religious branches of Judaism and is considered of paramount importance among religious Jews.