The Best Education

"...educating children requires effort, persistence, and sometimes even challenges"

In Parashat Va’ethanan, which is found in the book of (Devarim) Deuteronomy, Moshe continues his farewell address to the Israelites, recounting various mitzvot (commandments) and laws. One significant theme that emerges from this portion is the importance of education and imparting knowledge to future generations.

In Deuteronomy 6:4-9, Moshe delivers the central declaration of Jewish faith known as the Shema: “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our G-d, the Lord is One. Love the Lord your G-d with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.” This passage emphasizes the oneness of HaShem and the commandment to love Him with your whole being. Moshe instructs the Israelites to internalize these teachings and pass them on to their children.

The Hebrew word for “teach” in this passage, “v’shinantan,” is derived from the root word “shanan,” which means “sharp” or “thorny.” This conveys the idea that educating children requires effort, persistence, and sometimes even challenges. The Torah encourages parents and educators to diligently instruct children in the ways of HaShem, instilling in them a love for HaShem and His mitzvot.

Furthermore, the portion instructs the Israelites to teach their children these mitzvot in various settings and throughout their daily lives. It states, “Talk about them when you sit home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.” This suggests that education should be an ongoing process and not limited to formal settings such as schools or synagogues. It should be integrated into the fabric of everyday life, where children can witness and learn from their parents’ actions and values.

By teaching children diligently and incorporating education into daily life, the Torah promotes a holistic approach to nurturing the next generation. It recognizes that the responsibility of education rests not only on formal institutions but also on parents, family members, and the community. Each individual has a role to play in shaping the character, values, and spiritual growth of children.

The principles conveyed in Parashat Va’ethanan highlight the timeless importance of education in Jewish tradition. They remind us that the transmission of knowledge and values to future generations is a sacred duty. Whether it is imparting religious teachings, moral values, or practical skills, the Torah teaches us to invest in the education of our children and provide them with a strong foundation for a meaningful and purposeful life.