Sharpening the Word, One Generation at a Time
What did Moshe really mean when he commanded Israel, "You shall teach them diligently to your children" (Deuteronomy 6:7)? The Hebrew word וְשִׁנַּנְתָּם (veshinnantam) paints a much richer picture than most English translations reveal. Rooted in the idea of sharpening a blade, this remarkable word teaches that the Torah is to be impressed upon the next generation through continual study, repetition, review, and faithful example. This article explores the Hebrew language, biblical context, Jewish commentary, and the timeless practice of chazarah (review), showing how The Almighty calls His people not merely to know His Word, but to be continually sharpened by it and to sharpen others in turn.
BIBLE STUDYBIBLICAL HEBREW WORD STUDYTORAH STUDY
Gordon Hayes
7/25/2026


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