What is the meaning of 'make a fence around the Torah'?

The phrase "make a fence around the Torah" refers to the practice of establishing additional prohibitions and guidelines to prevent people from inadvertently transgressing the commandments of the Torah. This principle is grounded in the understanding that by creating safeguards, one can help ensure that individuals do not come close to violating any commandments.

Choosing to avoid prohibited actions and their near occasions embodies the essence of this idea. By steering clear of situations or actions that could lead to sin, one is proactively engaging in a level of observance that minimizes the risk of transgression. This approach is rooted in the teachings of the sages, who emphasized the importance of protecting the integrity of the Torah by keeping a safe distance from potential violations.

The other options do not align with this concept. Encouraging minimal observance of commandments contrasts with the idea of enhancing one's observance through additional guidelines. Setting strict rules can sometimes lead to rigidity rather than understanding and practice, while demonstrating leniency in observance doesn't align with the protective intent of building a fence around the Torah. Overall, the focus is on creating a culture of careful observance that prioritizes preventing transgression rather than merely addressing them after they occur.