Week 21 · The Jewish Weekday
Food Blessings I: Before Eating
Questions 358–374
Academy reading copy. This lesson is not offered as a file download.
Objectives
Explain this week’s central concepts accurately, respectfully, and in clear language.
Answer Questions 358–374 in complete sentences and correct them after discussion.
Connect belief and law to observable practice in home, synagogue, and community.
Core content
Categories of blessings; fruit, vegetables, grains, wine, bread; mixtures and doubtful cases.
Required reading
The community’s siddur; Donin on prayer and blessings; a current practical halakhic guide selected by the sponsoring rabbi.
Practical observance
Keep a food-blessing diary and verify uncertain foods with the rabbi or a reliable halakhic guide.
Hebrew strand
Practice 10–15 minutes daily: accurate reading of blessings and service headings. Record one passage that became easier this week.
Homework and reflection
Complete written responses for 358–374; mark every answer that depends on local custom or rabbinic ruling.
Write 150–250 words: “How should this week’s learning change the way I live?”
Record attendance, practice completed, uncertainties, and one question for the sponsoring rabbi.
Rabbinic checkpoint
Choose the correct first blessing in common cases and know when to ask.