Spring Learning Resources

Seed Planting Kits and Pencil Cases Service to Go Projects

Spring Service to Go Projects

  • Seed Planting Kits
  • Pencil Cases

Jewish Value

wisdom, or chochma

Pencil Cases

What does Judaism have to say about wisdom, or chochma?

The Hebrew word chochma holds a profound meaning in the Torah, representing wisdom in both divine (Proverbs 3:19) and human (Daniel 1:17) forms. Chochma encompasses the ability to make informed decisions and act upon them with understanding. It grants us the unique capacity to see things from God’s perspective, embracing a deeper level of insight and knowledge.

Why are these projects important?

When we step outside and immerse ourselves in nature’s beauty, it’s easy to forget to acknowledge Hashem, a name for God, for the wonders around us. Nature holds profound wisdom, even in its complexity. For instance, the date palm, which thrives in salty conditions while producing sweet honey. It teaches us to seek the good even amidst the bad. The olive tree, which yields oil, inspires us to spread light in the world, while the grape, which is crushed to create wine, reminds us of the importance of growth and transformation.

Here’s how this connects to Seed Planting Kits and Pencil Cases: Ramban, a prominent Jewish scholar and Rabbi, offers insights into the Hebrew words bara and yatzar, which describe creation. Bara refers to the creation of something from nothing, like the creation of heaven and earth. On the other hand, yatzar refers to the creation of something from preexisting materials, such as pencils made from the wood of trees. Trees exemplify bara, and pencils exemplify yatzar. It’s this beautiful connection between the two projects that now becomes visible.

Discussion Questions

  • In what ways can you positively impart your wisdom to others?
  • How would you define wisdom and what does it mean to you personally?
  • What method or approach do you enjoy the most when it comes to acquiring new knowledge and learning?

Go Deeper with these PJ Library Books

  • The Forever Garden by Laurel Snyder
  • Maya Prays for Rain by Susan Tarcov
  • Here is the World by Leslea Newman