Guidance for Teachers

In addition to the Teacher being a wise man, he constantly taught the people knowledge; he weighed, explored, and arranged many proverbs. The Teacher sought to find delightful sayings and to accurately write words of truth. – Ecclesiastes 12:9-10 HCSB

In order to introduce Himself to Humanity, God first chose to use creation itself.[1] Then He implanted knowledge of Himself and of right and wrong deep within our consciences.[2] Then He used various humans to give us a direct revelation of His wishes.[3] Finally, as if all this were not enough, He came to Earth Himself and lived among us.[4]

Our faith revolves around a right understanding of the revelation of God. For that reason, it is supremely important that education play a central role among the tzaddikim and that their teachers understand their role within the Body. With three principle passages in mind[5], I would like to offer the following advice to teachers:

Teaching must begin with the teacher. Strive to be wise by weighing, exploring and arranging truth. Seek out delightful sayings. Figure out how to make learning fun, amusing and attractive. Teach constantly. Let teaching not just be a job or a ministry but the very essence of your life. Take every opportunity to teach.

Accurately write words of truth. Leave something for posterity. Besides, writing things down has a way of clarifying your thoughts, making it easier to communicate. Let your words goad people into action. Firmly nail down what is right and wrong. But don’t get caught up in lahag. Make sure they know you are not the source of all truth and wisdom – God is. All truth comes from God.

Teach as much by your character as you do by your speech. Let true instruction be in your mouth and speak nothing wrong. Walk with God in peace and fairness so that others will be attracted to your message. Encourage the people to seek your instruction by being humble and approachable. Remember that you represent the Lord of Hosts.

What should you teach? Fear God and keep His commandments. God is coming back and will bring every act, good or evil, hidden or public, to judgment. There will be consequences for sin but His desire is for life and peace. Revere Hashem and stand in awe of His name. Turn the people from sin. Guard knowledge. Don’t let false teaching leak into the people’s minds. Actively oppose what will do them harm.

Spread God’s Good News everywhere and catch as many in your nets as possible. But don’t feel you need to save every person. They have a free will. If they reject your message, don’t insist – simply move on to the next (potentially receptive) person.

And finally, never stop being a student. Good theology is consistent but not static. Hang on to the good foundational truths that your have learned (kabalah) but be constantly looking for new ways to apply and present the old truths (masoret).

[1] Psalm 19:1-4; 139:14; Romans 1:20
[2] Romans 1:19-22
[3] Luke 24:25-27; Hebrews 1:1; 2 Timothy 3:16-17
[4] Hebrews 1:1-2; Colossians 2:9
[5] Ecclesiastes 12:9-14, Malachi 2:5-7 and Matthew 13:44-52