If you were in a trivia contest and the difference between winning and losing was based on the following question, would you know the answer? What is the relationship between rocks, a 10-year-old boy, and Tel Aviv?
Let’s make it easier. Do cows prefer Israel? What day of the week qualifies you for lower insurance rates on your automobile insurance? Why do people buy trees in Israel, and when did the custom start? How many beaches does Israel have? How many political parties? How many times were the Jews thrown out of Israel? In what year was Hatikvah approved as the Israeli national anthem, and when were the lyrics written? Are the people in Israel really happy?
We often talk about Jewish education, which we unfortunately limit to history, tradition, spirituality and rituals, and famous people — but we do not emphasize what an unbelievably magnificent country Israel has grown into in such a short period of time.
One might wonder why they should care. As you read these questions, how interested were you in finding out the answers?
It is interesting that, during the history of this geographical area, so many dynasties and empires have had a desire to occupy the land. It is a home not only to Jewish people but so many others. As a matter of fact, recently the most common name given to a baby boy is Mohammed!
Having visited Israel many times, with the first encounter being when I was 10 years old, I have seen the transition to a magnificent land that now supplies a remarkable contribution in just about every field that sustains human life, technology, and agriculture.
Historians also note that when the land was occupied by foreigners it never produced agricultural yields, yet every time the Jewish people governed they witnessed a total reversal of crops and vegetation.
I could go on and on with all the achievements and uniqueness of this miracle land, but I thought I would provide you with a homework assignment as part of Jewish education.
Please accept the challenge of finding out the answers to the questions above, as well as digging even deeper so you can be knowledgeable and witness Irael’s accomplishments.
Always remember that Israel never was and never will be a trivial matter in world history and the future.
Andy Greenberg is a 25-year Conservative Jewish educator of grades 3-12 and a lecturer for adults of all ages.
