"These are the journeys of Bnei Yisrael"
The journey is a precious thing. And so in the verse it is not necessary to say the destination, because from a good journey comes a good destination. The essence is the journey.
Apter Rebbe in Ohev Yisrael
TAL TORAH's unique program for teens invites students to make a personal journey of growth and development toward becoming young women and men secure in their own identities. Strengthening their sense of connection to Jewish tradition, the people and the society of Israel, the program awakens their desire to find their own place as active and giving young adults.
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Just as Bnei Yisrael journeyed in the desert toward their destination of the land of Israel, so each young person makes his or her own individual journey to a place of maturity and greater understanding. These years of transition from childhood to adulthood are first and foremost a journey of self-discovery. In learning about the maturing of the Children of Israel at different times in their early history, we will be raising questions that are relevant today. What are the values and ideas from previous generations that will guide my own independent action? How will I continue the values that I received and make of them something personal to me? |
Teens often ask how to think about their responsibility toward the community within which they are entering adulthood. In our discussions, we will focus on the circle of connections within a young person's life, learning about and reflecting upon the values and responsibilities that flow from being part of a family, a community and the larger world. Through in-depth study of mitzvot such as Love Your Neighbor as Yourself, Honoring Parents, Tzedaka and Environmental Awareness, we will speak about the requirements and nuances of our relationships with friends, family, the wider community and the world of nature.
"A person is called by three names.
One that his mother and father call him
One that he is called by his friends
And one that he earns for himself.
Best of all is the one he earns for himself."
Midrash Tanchuma Vayakhel
This class is given to all TAL TORAH'S Bnei Mitzvah students. It is also offered to schools, shuls and other interested groups.