* Translated by Janine Muller Sherr
How do we define wisdom, strength, wealth, and honor?
Masechet Avot invites us to reconsider how we think about these concepts.
During this period of the Counting of the Omer between Pesach and Shavuot, it is customary to study one chapter of Pirkei Avot every Shabbat. This tractate of the Mishna focuses on self-improvement and character refinement, and by studying it during this time we prepare ourselves to receive the Torah on Shavuot.
Here is a fascinating excerpt from Masechet Avot that was studied this past Shabbat in Jewish communities throughout the world:
Who is wise? He who learns from every person.
Who is mighty? He who subdues his evil inclination.
Who is rich? He who rejoices in his lot.
Who is honored? He who honors his fellow human beings.
Wow. Wisdom is defined not as the accumulation of knowledge but the ability to learn from others. Strength is self-control. True wealth is being satisfied with what we already have. And an honorable person is one who honors others.
Each of these statements radically overturns our traditional assumptions about success and invites us to work on ourselves and view our lives in a new way.
