Click here for a translation of this source from Sefaria: https://www.sefaria.org/Chagigah.3b?lang=bi

This source furthers the concept of אלו ואלו by stating that all halakhic opinions - even ones that are mutually exclusive - were given by God. The gemara goes on to highlight additional ethical and personal dimensions of אלו ואלו - being sensitive and understanding to all viewpoints on a particular issue. Students should be encouraged to contextualize the values of sensitivity and understanding within their own behavior as well as within their understanding of halakhic values.

 This gemara also alludes to a theory of revelation - that God taught to Moshe all opinions to every question at Har Sinai - that will be revisited during our discussion of הלכה למשה מסיני - Unit 1 Section 4 of 9th grade.

1. What behavioral response should we have to the existence of multiple, mutually exlcusive ideas within halakha?
2. How does God’s revelation of Torah to Moshe make the concept of אלו ואלו possible?

Here's what students will take away from this source:

Sensitivity

1. This source again demonstrates the importance of behavior and sensitivity towards conflicting opinions within halakha

Revelation

1. This source hints to the basis of אלו ואלו - namely, that there can be multiple truths in halakha because God himself provided multiple answers or perspectives to Moshe about every law.

How will this gemara shape the way your students see the world?

This Gemara communicates an important value about dissent and debate within Judaism. When faced with diverse and conflicting opinions, this Gemara demonstrates that we must have a sensitivity to learn from all viewpoints.

(See below for downloadable Word and PDF versions of students worksheets that can be used in the classroom)

Vocabulary

1. טמא
2. טהור
3. אסור
4. מותר
5. פסול
6. כשר
7. …ד (prefix)