Ethics Statement

Stam Scribes competency qualification stands on three principles:
1. תורה: Skills & knowledge base
2. עבודה: Professional standards
3. גמילות חסדים: Personal qualities

All these principles are intended to give effect to the requirement that scribes are yirei shamayim [G-d fearing] within the context of lo bashamayim hi [Jewish pluralism].

1. תורה | Skills & knowledge base
• Familiarity with the rhythms of traditional Jewish life
• Familiarity with biblical and rabbinic Hebrew
• Familiarity with the essential textual sources (both biblical and rabbinic)
• Working knowledge of relevant, and widely accepted, halachic sources regarding sofrut in which you are grounding your work (e.g. Mishna Brura)
• Letterform skills
◦ Kosher according to a specific halachic tradition
◦ Consistent, legible and fluid
• Facility with the materials and tools
• Understanding of layout and construction of STa”M manuscripts

2. עבודה | Professional Standards
• A reciprocal relationship with the collegiate group regarding halachic issues
• A working relationship with an appropriately qualified and authoritative sofrut teacher
• Regular and consistent study and review
• Transparency and clarity in contracts with clients, and adherence to contractual obligations
• Fair pricing (both with regards to the scribe and the community)
• Collegiate respect for fellow practitioners including those practicing in different traditions
• Consistent follow-through and timely completion of commissions
• Active membership of a functioning Jewish community

3. גמילות חסדים | Personal Qualities
• Humility
• Honesty
• Trust-worthiness & integrity
• Meticulousness and conscientiousness