Adam Carpenter – Head of Jewish Life Primary

Reflecting on the Importance of Asking Questions

Year 5 students have begun their Jewish Studies learning this year reflecting on the importance of asking questions to stimulate curiosity and learning. This approach to learning is reflected in our Jewish tradition, with the Talmud recording not only the questions posed by our rabbis, but also the multiple responses and differing opinions that ensue when questions are asked, rather than answers given. 

In Pirke Avot (4.1), Ben Zoma asks four questions, and in the text he helpfully provides his own answers to his question. Before learning Ben Zoma’s answers, students came up with their own amazing, insightful and thoughtful responses to his questions. Here is a sample of their thinking: 

Ben Zoma asks “Who is wise?   איזהו הכם”

Year 5 thinks: someone who…

• perseveres and does not give up easily
• thinks of the consequences of their actions 
• values other people 
• learns from their mistakes
• uses life experiences to solve problems
• uses evidence to back up answers and opinions
• shares what they know with others and helps them
• listens to the advice of others.

Ben Zoma asks “Who is brave and mighty?  איזהו גיבור’”

Year 5 thinks: someone who…

• faces their fears
• takes risks for others
• believes in themselves
• tries and persists when things are difficult
• is not afraid of making mistakes or failing
• is open to the new
• tries new things, even if it is uncomfortable
• stands up for what they believe in, even if it is not popular
• is true to themselves – even if it means ‘going against the flow’.

Ben Zoma asks ‘Who is rich?  איזהו עשיר’

Year 5 thinks: someone who…

• Has an education
• Lives to help others
• Is grateful for what they have
• Is kind and generous, who cares and helps others
• Is happy with what they have
• Treasures every moment
• Has love in their lives – to give love and receive love
• Has meaning and purpose in their lives

Ben Zoma asks “Who is honoured?  איזהו מכובד”

Year 5 thinks: someone who…

• acts in a way that deserves respect
• honours and respects others
• is honest and kind
• sets themselves goals and achieves them
• accepts responsibility
• is modest and humble
• listens and respects others and treats all people equally
• is true to themselves
• cares for and is concerned for others.

Click on the link provided to view the original text: Pirke Avot 4.1 Ben Zoma Quote