Your Turn: Passover helps teach children character

In an increasingly polarized society where social acceptance and popularity continue to pressure our youths to conform to a certain “mold” and “acceptable behavior,” a holiday commemorating an ancient miracle may have some solid wisdom for us.

Passover, the most celebrated Jewish holiday (observed this year beginning on Friday evening) commemorates the Israelites’ redemption from Egyptian slavery over 3,330 years ago.

Retelling the story is a central theme of the holiday’s ceremonial celebration, called the seder. The Bible speaks of four archetypal children and imparts instruction as to their education.

There is the scholarly child who asks intellectually stimulating questions; the rebellious one who challenges the premise of the holiday and defies authority; the simple one who is pleased with whatever they’re given; and finally, the child who couldn’t care less about the proceedings.

The message inherent in the Jews’ exodus from Egypt which we celebrate on Passover speaks to the intrinsic human need to serve a purpose higher than ourselves. It empowers us with the knowledge that our behavior is important to G-d and that every thought, spoken word and action has a profound impact on our universe.

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At a time where many feel a lack of purpose and meaning, perhaps focusing on this theme — appreciating the sensitivities of each child — is a way to bring more fulfillment to everyone.

Even children who wish to buck societal norms or do everything they can to tune out the mentorship of their elders can be engaged in this essential conversation. Passover teaches us that it is possible and that it is our obligation to do so.

This is the essence of education.

The Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Schneerson, of righteous memory, taught that education should not be limited to the acquisition of knowledge and preparation for a career; rather, the educational system must pay the most attention to the building of character, with emphasis on moral and ethical values: to live life with the awareness that every positive action can have a profound impact on our universe. To be ever conscious of the fact that if the individual was created, that is G-d’s way of telling him or her: you matter and you have a purpose to achieve in this world.

Over the past four decades, the U.S. Congress set aside “Education and Sharing Day,” proclaimed annually by U.S. presidents, on the anniversary of the Rebbe’s birth, four days before Passover, in tribute to his commitment to teaching the next generation of Americans the values that make our country strong — a call to pause and recognize our responsibility in ensuring that our young people have the foundation necessary to lead lives rich in purpose and fulfillment.

Mayor Richard David issued a proclamation declaring Tuesday, March 27 as Education and Sharing Day — Binghamton. He joined hundreds of mayors, county executives and governors of all 50 states in signing similar proclamations in their respective states, counties and cities.

Our local government recognizing this day as Education and Sharing day is a call to all citizens of the greater Binghamton area to reflect on the vital role of education in preparing our youths to be the leaders of tomorrow, with an emphasis on inspiring a moral and ethical obligation. The emphasis of this day of Education and Sharing is on serving a cause greater than self and the anchoring of one’s life in virtues such as courage and compassion.

It is inspiring to see our community leaders instilling this empowering message in the minds and hearts of our community

Best wishes for a kosher and happy Passover. To learn more about Passover, please visit JewishBU.com/Passover

Rabbi Levi Slonim is director of programming and development for the Rohr Chabad Center for Jewish Student Life at Binghamton University.