Pirkei Avot seems out of place in the Mishnah. The first chapter sets out the unbroken chain of Jewish tradition that gives the Sages the authority to interpret scripture and lead the people. Download mp3 Download text
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Pirkei Avot is not simply a list of homely epithets. It records the principles (avot) by which the Sages lead and judged the Jewish people and the source of their authority.
Pirkei Avot – Ethics of the Fathers – Part 2
Story of the revival of Jewish life in the land of Israel under Ezra. The establishment of the Men of the Great Assembly. The fundamental differences between Hillel and Shammai and their respective traditions. Download mp3 Download texts
Continue ReadingPirkei Avot – Ethics of the Fathers – Part 3
God has complete foreknowledge yet man has free will. Each person is judged on their own merits. Covers Pirkei Avot from 2:1 to 2:10. Download mp3 Download texts
Continue ReadingPirkei Avot – Ethics of the Fathers – Part 4
The sayings of Yochanan ben Zakkai and Akavia ben Mehalel. The rules on money lending, debt collecting and honour. Covers Pirkei Avot from 2:10 to 3:1. Download mp3 Download texts
Continue ReadingPirkei Avot – Ethics of the Fathers – Part 5
The sayings of Ben Zoma and Shimon ben Elazar. Who is wise? Who is strong? Who is rich? Covers Pirkei Avot from 3:10 to 4:18. Download mp3 Download texts
Continue ReadingPirkei Avot – Ethics of the Fathers – Part 6
Not strictly Pirkei Avot – but the history of Yavneh under Rabban Gamliel. How the Sages rebelled against him. What happened on that day and how Rabban Gamliel was reinstated. Download mp3 Download texts
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