It is customary that right after Passover and through the summer months we study Pirchei Avos-The Ethics of our Fathers. This book is a collection of thoughts which help to provide us with direction and serve as a moral and ethical compass.
Following are a sampling of some of these sayings. Each is pertinent to our lives and can help us strengthen our character.
4/11 Ben Zoma says:
Who is Wise? He who Learns from Everyone
Who is Strong? He who is Slow to Anger
Who is Rich? He who is Happy with what he has
Who is Honored? He who Honors Others
1/4 Hillel says:
If I am not for myself, who will be for me. But-If I am only for myself-What Am I?
1/18 Rabbi Shlomo Ben Gamliel says:
The world stands and is sustained on three things: Law, Truth, and Peace
1/15 Our Rabbis say:
How should a person act?
Greet everyone with a pleasant disposition
Do not separate yourself from the community
Do not judge others until you find yourself in their place
Give honor to anyone from whom you learned even one small thing
Be humble and treat others with respect
Begin a worthwhile project, even if you cannot finish it
6/3 What attributes will help you succeed:
A good heart
Faith in your teachers and mentors
Know your place
Love righteousness
Do for others; claim no credit for yourself
Judge favorably
Do for others what you would like them to do for you (the golden rule)
