I was a very religious child - I went to synagogue at least once, sometimes twice, a day. And I remember my religiousness as good - I think religion is good for children, especially educated children, because it allows for imagination, a whole imaginative world apart from the practical world.

Yehuda Amichai’s quote, "I was a very religious child - I went to synagogue at least once, sometimes twice, a day. And I remember my religiousness as good - I think religion is good for children, especially educated children, because it allows for imagination, a whole imaginative world apart from the practical world," reflects Amichai's view on the role of religion in shaping a child's development. He recalls his own experiences with religion as positive, believing that the structure and rituals of religious practice offer a unique and valuable space for children to engage with their imagination. Religion, in this sense, is not just a set of rules, but a way of fostering creativity and wonder.

Amichai emphasizes that religion provides children with an imaginative world that exists alongside the practical world. While the practical world is often focused on the tangible, logical, and everyday aspects of life, religion offers an alternative space for children to explore abstract ideas, spiritual concepts, and mythical narratives. This imaginative world, shaped by rituals and religious stories, encourages children to think beyond the immediate reality and engage with a deeper, more mystical realm.

The quote also touches on the idea that religion can be especially beneficial for educated children, suggesting that it provides a framework for exploring the spiritual and philosophical aspects of life. For Amichai, religion is not just about faith, but about broadening the scope of a child’s understanding, encouraging them to connect with ideas and feelings that go beyond the everyday, practical concerns they may encounter in the world.

Ultimately, Amichai’s reflection underscores the importance of imagination in childhood development. By engaging with religion, children are offered the opportunity to cultivate a rich, creative inner world, allowing them to explore and process the mysteries of life in a way that complements their more practical, worldly experiences. This balance between the imaginative and the practical can enrich their understanding of the world around them.