Connect Generations

VALUES

 

The value of l’dor v’dor – from generation to generation – links our history with that of the past and the future. Judaism places great importance on the transference of memory so that it may always be for a blessing. When we remember that which came before us, and embrace the knowledge gained from those who came before us, all of our stories become as one. L’dor v’dor means for us to recall the struggles of our ancestors; to remember Egypt, to remember the fall of the Second Temple, to remember the expulsion from Spain, and even remember the Holocaust. Jewish identity is founded in this history and links us to those who are also in covenant with God and those who share this history. L’dor v’dor not only means knowing the history of our people and learning from that history, but also learning about and learning from the history of our own families and communities. It is our family that provides the foundations for the lessons we learn. However, it is the responsibility of the entire community to bring up the next generation. We connect with our Judaism from the actions of others – our parents, our teachers, from all members of the community. We take this knowledge and wisdom accumulated over the centuries and applies it to our lives today. L’dor V’dor is not just about embracing the past, but uplifting the past’s relevance in our own time and place.

Questions for Reflection

1. What do you want your legacy to be? What do you want to pass on to those whom you love? 
2. As a teacher, what is one thing you want to pass on to your students? 
3. How can the value of L’dor v’dor be incorporated within the classroom?