Talmud states that “childhood
is a garland of roses” and that “the very breath of children is free of sin.” Shabbat 119 Not only are they an empty slate but they are pure,
open.
Rabbi Yochanan relates story
of a man who planted carob tree, bear fruit only after 70 years. When asked whether he thought he would live
to eat from the tree, replied: “I am
doing as my ancestors did. Just as they
planted a carob tree for their children, I am planning for my children.” Ta’anit, 23.
That is the basis of teaching
that one who educates the young, even if not his own, as if they were his
children.
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