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Family Mitzvot
SummaryThis passage comprises three sections: 1) An inquiry into the textual meaning of the mishna: The Gemara discussed the formula “all mitzvot of a son with regard to a father.” Is this referring to the obligations of a son toward his father, or those of a father to his son? The Gemara decided that the second interpretation is preferable, as it is consistent with the halakha as it appears in other sources. 2) An inquiry into the source of the halakha of the mishna. In addition, the Talmud sought the biblical source for the exemption of a mother from teaching her son Torah. In doing so, it touched upon the fundamental principles of the obligation to teach and study Torah. 3) A discussion concerning the halakha: The Talmud cited an apparent dispute about whether one should marry or study Torah first, after which it stated that there is no dispute between the two opinions. Rather, they represent different customs that stem from different circumstances in different geographic places. Other halakhic matters raised address the question whether a grandfather is also obligated to teach Torah to his grandsons, and what material is one obligated to teach his son and his grandson.