Although we didn't formally meet on Sunday morning, some of our students joined me at our annual FALL FIX UP, and it was great working together to make the world a little bit better. On Tuesday afternoon we had a nice discussion about why we cancelled class to rake leaves and wash windows, and why these activities were considered mitzvot.
Of course we had to agree upon a definition of the word mitzvot, and in no uncertain terms, a mitzvah is a commandment. We then talked about the differences between rules, laws, and commandments, and the consequences attached to each. We talked about bending rules, but abiding by them for the good of the group. Laws on the other hand, have more severe penalties attached to them, and we follow laws to be responsible, active members of society. The commandments in our Torah are meant to help us make the world a better place by building relationships between GOD and man, and man and man. Doing mitzvot requires we take an active role as a partner with GOD, and when we perform mitzvot, we build strong connections with GOD and our community.
Our students had some time to break into small groups, and brainstormed ideas about what commandments counted as mitzvot, and what actions were just "good deeds." Interestingly, most of the commandments we talked about were everyday actions we do because they are the right thing to do, and not just laws in the Torah. So, when you children are mindful and respectful, know they are observant Jews, performing mitzvot for the sake of Torah.
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