TEACHING ETHICS AND MORALITY

TEACHING ETHICS AND MORALITY

As more and more cases of violent crime becomes manifest and as society crumbles around us we hear discussions of what is wrong, and what should be done about it. Some of the solutions proposed are: more police; attack the underlying social problems of inequality and unemployment, the media is irresponsible, let us curb the violence and exploitation all to frequently depicted.

What should the Jewish response be: – All the proposed changes are negative in nature, we need a positive response – the answer is an ethical and moral upbringing based on an idea of a moral and ethical all knowing G-d.

The story of Abraham and Sarah comes to mind. They move to Philistine country where Sarah is promptly kidnapped and taken to the King’s harem. On hearing that Sarah was Abraham’s wife she was returned. Abraham was challenged by the King, “Why did you lie to me and say that she was your sister?” Abraham’s answer, “I know that there is no fear of G-d in this place and they would kill me and take my wife.

The ideal society would be one with no need for police. A society

with no crime, one in which you can leave your front door open.

The more need we have for police the further we are from the ideal.

Values must be taught. Most schools are not teaching them, therefore we the parents have an added responsibility.

Who is teaching you and your child ethics and morality?”