Deuteronomy 6:7, "and you shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise up," is a cornerstone verse in Judaism and has significant implications for Christian faith as well. It means:
Teach Diligently: The word "diligently" (often translated as "sharply," "forcefully," or "intensively") implies that teaching should be enthusiastic, persistent, and prioritized. It's not a casual or occasional activity, but a central aspect of raising children.
To Your Children: The commandment emphasizes passing down knowledge and faith to the next generation. It highlights the responsibility of parents and caregivers to actively educate their children.
Talk of Them: The "them" refers back to the commandments, laws, and teachings of God, mentioned earlier in Deuteronomy 6 (particularly the Shema in verses 4-6, emphasizing the oneness of God and loving Him with all your heart, soul, and might). The instruction is to integrate these principles into daily life through conversation and discussion.
When You Sit in Your House: Integrate your faith into your family and home life.
When You Walk by the Way: This emphasizes incorporating these lessons into everyday activities, during travel, errands, or simply being out and about. It means finding opportunities to discuss and apply the principles in different contexts.
When You Lie Down, and When You Rise Up: This covers the beginning and end of the day, suggesting that these principles should frame your entire existence. Incorporate the teachings into your bedtime routines, morning routines, and reflections.
In essence, this verse calls for a pervasive and consistent approach to teaching and internalizing faith and values. It's not confined to formal settings like religious services or classrooms but is woven into the fabric of daily life, making the teachings relevant and ever-present.
Deuteronomy 6:7, "and you shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise up," is a cornerstone verse in Judaism and has significant implications for Christian faith as well. It means:
Teach Diligently: The word "diligently" (often translated as "sharply," "forcefully," or "intensively") implies that teaching should be enthusiastic, persistent, and prioritized. It's not a casual or occasional activity, but a central aspect of raising children.
To Your Children: The commandment emphasizes passing down knowledge and faith to the next generation. It highlights the responsibility of parents and caregivers to actively educate their children.
Talk of Them: The "them" refers back to the commandments, laws, and teachings of God, mentioned earlier in Deuteronomy 6 (particularly the Shema in verses 4-6, emphasizing the oneness of God and loving Him with all your heart, soul, and might). The instruction is to integrate these principles into daily life through conversation and discussion.
When You Sit in Your House: Integrate your faith into your family and home life.
When You Walk by the Way: This emphasizes incorporating these lessons into everyday activities, during travel, errands, or simply being out and about. It means finding opportunities to discuss and apply the principles in different contexts.
When You Lie Down, and When You Rise Up: This covers the beginning and end of the day, suggesting that these principles should frame your entire existence. Incorporate the teachings into your bedtime routines, morning routines, and reflections.
In essence, this verse calls for a pervasive and consistent approach to teaching and internalizing faith and values. It's not confined to formal settings like religious services or classrooms but is woven into the fabric of daily life, making the teachings relevant and ever-present.