Aim

To begin to consider the symbolic nature of the shofar.

Lesson

Begin by reviewing what was taught in the previous lesson about Rosh Hashanah. Inform the children that every morning during the month leading up to Rosh Hashanah, a ram's horn (shofar) is blown in the synagogue. Show them the image of the shofar (or a real one if available).

If possible, play a recording of a shofar being blown. Ask the children to describe the sound. How does it make them feel?

The shofar reminds Jews of a story in the Torah. This story is also read at synagogue, during the celebration of Rosh Hashanah.

Share with children the story of Abraham and Isaac (Genesis 22:1-19).

Activity

Following discussion, groups of children could:

• write an account of the story from the point of view of Isaac
• write about a time when they made a sacrifice or someone made one for them
• read a different version of the story and compare
• write down their opinions of God, Abraham, and Isaac