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# Video: Mussar Study: Pirke Avot - Week 1
- URL: https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/video-mussar-study-pirke-avot-week-1/
- Published: 2026-04-26T21:49:59.000Z
- Updated: 2026-04-29T12:29:08.000Z
- Description: In this session, we walk through the timeless wisdom of Pirke Avot, also known as the Ethics of the Fathers.
- Author: James - The Hidden Orchard
- Tags: Mussar, Second Temple Judaism, Videos

In this session, we begin our interactive discussion about Pirke Avot and the timeless lessons of Mussar.

  
**0:00 - 6:32 - Introduction to Pirke Avot**  
• Overview of the Mishna and the oral tradition.  
• Explanation of Mussar as the development of spiritual ethics  
  
**6:33 - 13:25 - The Chain of Tradition**  
• The passing of the Torah from Moses through the Great Assembly.  
• The three pillars: Be careful in judgment, Raise up many disciples, and Make a fence for the Torah.  
  
**13:26 - 22:55 - The Foundation of the World**  
• Shimon the Just on the three things the world stands on: Torah, Divine Worship, and Acts of Loving Kindness.  
• Discussing the importance of kindness toward people and creation.  
  
**22:56 - 25:43 - Service Out of Love**   
• Antigonos of Socho's teaching: Do not serve as a servant expecting a reward, but let the fear of heaven be upon you.  
  
**25:44 - 30:48 - The Posture of a Learner**  
• Yose Ben Yoezer of Zereda: Let your house be a meeting place for sages, and drink in their words with thirst.  
• The importance of humility and life-long learning regarding the Yetzer Hara (evil inclination).  
  
**30:49 - 39:30 - Hospitality and Avoiding Temptation**  
• Yose Ben Yohanan of Jerusalem: Let your house be open to the poor.  
• Wisdom regarding interacting with others to avoid gossip and impropriety (fences in relationships).  
• Shomer Negia, Yichud, healthy boundaries  
  
**39:31 - 48:05 - Teacher, Companion, and Benefit of the Doubt**  
• Get yourself a teacher, acquire a companion, and judge everyone favorably.

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