writersoul – thanks for your comment. I think the problem in this case is that the Brisker Dynasty is B”H so full of Gedolim, Chochomim, and Chashuvim, it is necessary to distinguish one from the other and that is the main reason the label “JB” stuck. I don’t know what goes on today, but in my Yeshiva years we never used the term to disparage him. Yes, we did not hold of his shitot, but that did not mean that we felt the need to disparage him (at least not in my circles). Unfortunately, the term “the Rav” can not be use and for two reasons. 1) It is too vague to understand which Rav is being referred to (I believe Rav Kook was also referred to as “The Rav” by his talmidim). 2) Most would assume you are talking about their Rosh Yeshiva. Thus, a more direct title is necessary. The Yeshivish world did not create this title, but in time adopted it into their lexicon.
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