Video: Mussar Study. Pirke Avot - Week 1

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.