When times are hard, it is sometimes difficult to remember that the things that count are not material, and the people who make a difference in our lives are the ones we often take for granted. We read five Jewish folktales that reveal gifts of generosity in everyday events of life. Through...
Wealth may be measured in something other than money. We may feel wealthy if we have a loving family or good health. Community wealth may be in relationships, respectful leaders, and good places to visit.
This lesson will introduce learners to a number of texts from classical and modern sources on the topic of how the work of tikun olam is to be performed. From these texts, the learners will derive rules for Jewish living and apply those rules, along with input from family members, to...
This lesson emphasizes the importance of respecting others and their opinions. Activities explore aspects of friendship and compromise.
This lesson focuses on eight levels of tzedakah (charity) that were identified by a great Jewish thinker known as Rabbi Moses Maimonides. Students will investigate various ways to give charity and gain an appreciation of how people give of their time, talent or treasure. They will...
It is obvious that our bodies require proper nutrition. It is less obvious that our souls and imaginations require sustenance as well. This lesson is intended as nutrition for the spirit. It is intended to demonstrate ways that people utilize their time, their talent and their treasure to...
Learners will identify, define, and demonstrate an understanding of the Hebrew phrase tikkun olam from a moral and religious standpoint.
The purpose of this lesson is to teach learners how to give charity, to whom one should give charity, and to what extent/amount of charity is to be given. The lesson follows the examples and teachings of Maimonides (the Rambam) as well as interpretations and extensions of ancient Biblical laws...
This lesson will teach the basic ideas of Shemittah and the practical reasons behind the commandment and the learners will understand the connection between respecting the Earth and respecting themselves.
This lesson will help students learn the value of taking care of the world. It will help them form a connection with nature and want to protect the things that G-d created.