Hello 7th Grade Families,
This past week our class has been examining the Jewish value
of Tzar Ba’alei Chayim (ethical treatment of animals). We took the class to the
zoo this past Sunday, and the learners were challenged to examine all forms of
life. In fulfilling the Jewish value in question, it is important that we
connect to the life forms we are charged with protecting. We looked at
butterflies and the miraculous transformation they go through during their life
spans. How can metamorphosis from a plain-looking caterpillar into a beautiful
butterfly apply to our lives and the values we put into practice? We visited
the chimpanzees and observed their behavior which is so similar to ours on a
primal level.
This past Tuesday we started watching the documentary
entitled Blackfish, in which the inhumane practices of institutions such
as SeaWorld are revealed. What is our obligation in regard to institutions such
as these? How can this apply to the idea of not standing idly by?
Next Sunday we will conclude the documentary which will
close out our Tzar Ba’alei Chayim unit. After we finish, we will start talking
about our next project within the framework of the ADL’s “No Place for Hate”
program. On Tuesday, we will introduce our next unit which is the Jewish value
of Tzedakah. A text study will reveal that although charity is a major
component of the idea of Tzedakah, the actual translation of the word is
justice. How do these two ideas relate to each other? How can we take an active
role in bringing justice into the world?
Rachel and I look forward to continuing our very important
curriculum, and we hope to see your children in class next week.
David Lerner
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