This high school lesson plan, designed for grades 9-12, uses a close reading of a section from the Talmudic text, Ketubot 48a, to explore the tension between tzedakah (charity) and the dignity of the family. The objective is for students to analyze competing Halachic perspectives, reflect on how Jewish law balances financial responsibilities with communal obligations, and connect these ancient values to contemporary issues. Through discussion and text study, students will grapple with questions of prioritizing community needs versus an individual's dignity, particularly in a case where a husband is absent.

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Lesson PlanElementary (Grades 2–5)

Anonymous Giving and Dignity

What if the best kind of giving… is the kind no one knows about? Explore anonymous kindness in the Beit Hamikdash

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Lesson PlanAdults / Community

Tzedakah as a Moral Imperative

Explore Rabbeinu Bahya’s powerful interpretation of the sin of Sodom as a communal rejection of tzedakah and compassion. This adult learning lesson examines how societies can either foster kindness or legislate against it.

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Lesson PlanAdults / Community

Chanukkah, Tzedakah, and Bringing the Geulah Closer

Explore how Chazal and the Sfas Emes connect tzedakah, Chanukkah light, and redemption. An adult learning lesson on how giving actively brings the geulah closer.

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Lesson PlanAdults / Community

Tzedakah as Justice

Explore a lesson plan for adults on the Jewish concept of tzedakah. Learn how tzedakah is a moral obligation of justice, not just a voluntary act of kindness, and discover its ideal form is to help others become self-sufficient.

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Lesson PlanAdults / Community

Calculations on Shabbat

Adult learners study Shabbat 150a to understand when charity, mitzvot, and communal action are allowed on Shabbat, emphasizing that true rest aligns with moral responsibility and spiritual values.

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Lesson PlanElementary (Grades 2–5)

Maot Chitim: Pesach and Community - Elem

This lesson plan introduces elementary students to the concept of Maot Chitim, the Jewish tradition of collecting money to help those in need celebrate Passover.

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Lesson PlanUpper School (Grades 9–12)

An Open Hand and an Open Heart: A Lesson on Tzedakah from Devarim

This lesson plan for high school students explores the Torah's teachings on poverty and tzedakah by analyzing verses from Devarim 15:4-11. Students will learn that tzedakah is about more than just giving money; it's about having the right attitude and empathy.

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