- Emunah – The Importance of Educating Children in Faith and Belief in Hashem[1]
One of the most fundamental responsibilities of parents and educators is to instill emunah in the hearts of children from their earliest years. Just as a child must be taught Torah and mitzvos, he must also be taught to recognize and feel the reality of Hashem’s presence in his life. The foundations of faith formed in childhood often remain with a person throughout his entire life and serve as the basis for his spiritual growth and commitment to Torah and mitzvos.
The education of emunah is not limited to formal lessons. Rather, it is conveyed continuously through the atmosphere of the home and the language that parents use in their daily interactions. Children should become accustomed to hearing the name of Hashem mentioned naturally and constantly. When a child asks how something happened, parents should teach him to say, “Baruch Hashem,” “Be’ezras Hashem,” or “Hashem helped us.” In this way, the child learns to see Hashem as a living reality rather than as an abstract concept.
A particularly powerful method of nurturing faith is through stories and conversations about hashgachah pratis, Divine Providence. Children should hear examples of how Hashem guides and directs every detail of a person’s life, from the greatest events to the smallest occurrences. By hearing such stories, they learn that nothing happens by chance and that Hashem is actively involved in the world He created.
Children must also be taught about Hashem’s boundless love and care. They should know that Hashem loves every Jew and indeed all of His creations. Every person has value and purpose because he was created by Hashem for a unique mission. This awareness gives a child confidence, meaning, and a sense of responsibility toward himself and others.
Another essential principle of faith is the understanding that Hashem created and sustains the entire world. Nothing exists independently of Him, and everything in creation has a purpose. The wonders of nature, the events of history, and the details of everyday life all testify to His wisdom and providence. When children are trained to see the world in this way, they develop a deeper appreciation for Hashem’s greatness and kindness.
Children should also be taught that Hashem sees, hears, and knows everything. No action, word, or thought is hidden from Him. This understanding is not meant to create fear alone, but rather a sense of accountability and awareness that one always stands before Hashem. At the same time, they should know that Hashem listens to their prayers, cares about their concerns, and desires a personal relationship with each of them.
Finally, children must learn that there is justice in the world. Hashem is the true Judge who rewards good and holds people accountable for wrongdoing. Although we do not always understand His ways, we believe that His judgment is perfect and that He governs the world with both justice and mercy. This belief provides a moral foundation for a child’s character and behavior, teaching him that every action matters and has consequences.
The goal of educating children in emunah is not merely to teach a set of beliefs, but to cultivate a living relationship with Hashem. Through constant reinforcement, personal example, stories of Divine Providence, and discussions about Hashem’s love, wisdom, and justice, parents and educators can help children grow into adults whose lives are guided by faith, trust, and a deep connection to their Creator.
An especially important component of educating a child in emunah is teaching him from a very young age to speak directly to Hashem and to pray to Him for his needs. A child should grow up with the awareness that Hashem is not distant, but rather close, listening to every word he says and caring about everything that happens in his life. Parents and educators should therefore encourage children to ask Hashem for help in simple, everyday matters: before a test, when looking for a lost item, when feeling afraid, when a family member is ill, or whenever they need guidance and assistance. In addition to teaching the formal prayers, children should be trained to speak to Hashem in their own words, expressing gratitude, sharing their concerns, and asking for what they need. When a child experiences that he can turn to Hashem at any time and in any place, prayer becomes a living relationship rather than merely a ritual. This habit strengthens faith, trust, and dependence upon Hashem, and helps the child develop the constant awareness that Hashem is always present, always listening, and always involved in every detail of his life.
[1] Likkutei Sichos 19:93; Toras Menachem 5743 2:899; 3:1342; 5749 2:291; Sichas Kodesh 5741 1:246; Igros Kodesh 22:494; Shaareiy Chinuch pp. 51-57