Pirke Avot: Timeless Wisdom for Modern Life: Translation
Overview
In this edition of the well-known Jewish classic, Berkson helps us see that Pirke Avot (Ethics of the Fathers) is more than just a fundamental religious text; it is also a compelling, contemporary ethical guide. Berkson looks at the individual sayings, or mishnayot, through the interpretations of the great Jewish commentators and also within the broader context of Western thought—through views found in the Bible, the ancient Greeks, the Enlightenment, Buddhism, Confucianism, and American culture today. The book’s most important and innovative feature is its exploration of the relationship between the beliefs of the ancient Sages and modern psychology, particularly the key to good relationships: ethical conduct. The result is a book that goes far beyond the plain meaning of the sayings to explore their ethical, psychological, and religious significance for us today.
Top Highlights
“Upon three things the world stands: upon the Torah, upon worship, and upon acts of kindness.” (Page 185)
“Shammai said: Make your Torah a set priority; say little and do much; and receive every person with a pleasant face.” (Page 187)
“He used to say: If I am not for myself, who is for me? And when I am for myself, what am I? And if not now, when?” (Page 187)
“Choose for yourself a mentor; acquire for yourself a friend; and judge every person in a favorable light.” (Page 185)
“Let your house be a meetinghouse for the wise; sit in the dust at their feet, and drink in their words with thirst.” (Page 185)
- Title: Pirke Avot: Timeless Wisdom for Modern Life: Translation
- Author: William Berkson
- Edition: First edition
- Publisher: Jewish Publication Society
- Print Publication Date: 2010
- Logos Release Date: 2012
- Language: English
- Resources: 1
- Format: Digital › Logos Research Edition
- Subject: Mishnah. Avot › English
- Resource ID: LLS:PRKVTTMLSSWSDMMTRSL
- Resource Type: text.monograph.ancient-manuscript.translation
- Metadata Last Updated: 2022-02-12T05:12:46Z