Chullin 135

Insight: The Beauty of "Our" Flock

In today's Mishna Chullin 135a, we learn about Reshit HaGez—the mitzvah of giving the first shearing of one's sheep to a Kohen. The debate centers on how many sheep define a "flock" and what counts as "yours." The core takeaway is that our possessions aren't just for us; they are meant to be shared. As we enter the New Year, we are reminded that even our "shearing"—the abundance we harvest from our efforts—isn't fully ours until we’ve set aside a portion for the sacred. It’s a beautiful, realistic way to acknowledge that our success is a partnership with the Divine.

Text Snapshot

"The mitzva of the first sheared wool... applies both in Eretz Yisrael and outside of Eretz Yisrael... and with regard to non-sacred animals." Chullin 135a

Activity: The "First Fruits" Basket (≤10 min)

Since it is Rosh Hashana, invite your children to pick one "first" item from their toy box or a snack bowl to "set aside" for someone else. It could be a toy to donate or a piece of fruit for a neighbor. Explain that just like the farmers in the Mishna shared their wool, we share the "first" of what we have to show we are grateful for everything we’ve been given.

Script: Answering "Why do I have to share?"

Child: "Why do I have to give this away? It’s mine!"

Parent: "It is yours, and you worked hard for it! But in our tradition, we believe that when we share the 'first' of what we have, it makes everything else we own feel more special. It’s our way of saying 'thank you' for the good year we just had and asking for a sweet year ahead."

Habit: The "Blessing Minute"

This week, pick one daily task (like folding laundry or packing lunch) and say a micro-blessing or a simple "thank you" for the item you are working with. Acknowledge that the work is a gift, not just a chore.

Takeaway

You don't need a massive flock to be generous. Whether it’s a tiny bit of wool or a small act of kindness, giving from the "first" portion sanctifies the rest of your week. Shana Tova!