Our Gemara on Amud Aleph tells us of a prophecy that the coliseums and theaters used for idolatrous purposes will one day be used to teach Torah in public. Aside from the accuracy of this prediction, as we have seen Siyumim and other Torah gatherings taking place in Madison Square Garden as well as virtual media outlets, what is the significance of this prediction? That is, why does it matter? Would it not be enough to know that Torah will be promulgated to the masses in the future, why is it important that it take place in the same venues as the idolaters?

The Beis Yaakov on Miketz (16) explains: There is an embryonic goodness within these impure forces, even when the Gentiles don’t notice it. This is why Pharaoh is depicted as standing by the bank of the Nile in his dream. It implies being, “oh,-so close” to something but not quite there. The spiritual blessings were within his reach but he was unable to relate to it and lost that chance. The uproarious good times that were being enjoyed throughout history in a hedonistic manner still represent a human power that can be fulfilled and expressed through spiritual activity. Therefore, it is not merely a renouncement of the Gentile practices, but actually a reconfiguring of them. This underscores a theme; everything in this world is good, so long as it is used and channeled appropriately.

Translations Courtesy of Sefaria, except when, sometimes, I disagree with the translation

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