Paraphrasing

Memory, a complex and essential function of the human brain, can be strengthened through various techniques. One such method, often underestimated in its simplicity, is paraphrasing or repeating something in your own words. This technique not only reinforces memory but also deepens understanding and fosters a personal connection to the material.

The act of paraphrasing requires us to understand the material well enough to express it in our own terms. This process of translation from original to personal language forces us to think critically about the content, to break it down into its essential components, and to relate it to our own knowledge and experiences. In doing so, we create stronger mental connections, making the information more memorable and meaningful.

Paraphrasing also helps to clarify and solidify our understanding. When we explain something in our own words, we often discover gaps in our knowledge or areas that need further exploration. This self-assessment is crucial for effective learning, as it allows us to identify and address misunderstandings before they become ingrained. Additionally, by expressing the information in a way that resonates with us personally, we are more likely to recall it accurately and apply it in relevant situations.

The wisdom of this practice can be found in the Torah, where the repetition of the Ten Commandments in the Book of Deuteronomy serves as a classic example.

The Torah provides two accounts of the Ten Commandments. The first, in the Book of Exodus, is a direct narrative of the event, capturing it as it occurred in “real time.” The second account, found in the Book of Deuteronomy, is Moses’s retelling of the event as part of a historical review of the Jewish people’s journey from Egypt and their experiences in the desert. This dual recounting holds a powerful lesson about the importance of repetition and the role it plays in both memory and understanding.

When we first encounter the Ten Commandments in Exodus, it is a momentous experience. The people of Israel are directly receiving the Torah from G‑d, a divine revelation that is both awe-inspiring and overwhelming. This initial encounter can be seen as a spiritual experience, one that transcends mere intellectual engagement. The magnitude of the moment imprints itself on the collective memory of the people, but because of its profound nature, it may not be fully understood or internalized at that time.

However, when Moses recounts the Ten Commandments in Deuteronomy, he does so from a different perspective. This second telling is not just a repetition but an interpretation and reflection on the original event. Moses, as a human leader and teacher, is explaining the significance of the commandments and how they relate to the people's journey and their covenant with G‑d. By hearing the commandments again, but in Moses’s words, the people are invited to engage with them intellectually and emotionally. This act of paraphrasing—of taking divine words and expressing them in human terms—helps to internalize the teachings and make them a part of the people’s own understanding.

This concept of paraphrasing to enhance memory and understanding is applicable in everyday life. When we hear something for the first time, especially if it is complex or significant, the experience can be overwhelming. We may remember the gist of what was said, but the details can be elusive. However, when we take the time to repeat the information in our own words, we are doing more than just reinforcing memory. We are processing the information, engaging with it on a deeper level, and making it our own.

By paraphrasing, we not only remember better but also internalize the material, making it a part of our intellectual and spiritual lives. Whether in religious study or everyday learning, the practice of paraphrasing is a valuable skill that helps us to truly grasp and retain the knowledge we acquire.