Sixth graders have an added dimension of text study with the introduction of Mishna, the Code of Jewish Law. The Mishna is the first layer of what is known as the “Oral Law” as contrasted with the Torah, which is the “Written Law.” The Mishna presents rabbinic debates reflecting different ways to interpret laws presented in the Torah. Students learn the history of the era that lead to the Mishna being codified and written down. They are invited to consider how religious communities evolve over time, as changes in society present challenges to the status quo of Jewish life. They learn the nature of legal disputation and have the opportunity to engage in legal debates on the different positions presented in the texts. Most of all, the students recognize that although there is a bottom line, consensus position, all the voices in the argument are recorded in the body of the Mishna. And, when considering why even minority positions are included in the text, students come to understand the rabbinic culture of serious debate and dialogue about issues that shape religious lives.

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