Avos are the Principles for the rest of the Mishna – The Tragic dilemma behind “Ethics from Sinai”
This lecture examines the organizational structure and purpose of Pirkei Avot (Ethics of the Fathers) within the Mishnah, arguing that "Avot" means "principles" or "categories" rather than "fathers" in a genealogical sense. The discussion challenges Maimonides' interpretation that Pirkei Avot primarily establishes the chain of tradition for the Oral Torah, proposing instead that its generational organization serves as a practical editorial framework for ethical aphorisms that resist thematic categorization. The lecture concludes by addressing a fundamental tension in Jewish thought: the tragic historical choice between prioritizing universal ethical teachings (shared with all humanity) versus particular Jewish observances like Shabbat, and how this dilemma has shaped Jewish intellectual responses from medieval Spain through modernity.
9 Oct 2026
Avos is the locus for ethics – What is the locus of Avos?
Avos is the locus for ethics - What is the locus of Avos?
24 Sept 2026
Halell and Lulav without Mikdash is like the Meshichist Kos Shel Beracha
This lecture examines two fundamental approaches to Jewish observance: the Litvish emphasis on correct performance of mitzvos according to halacha, and the Chassidic focus on inner feeling and spiritual connection during ritual acts. The instructor argues that many mitzvos—particularly ritual practices like shaking the lulav and reciting Hallel—have become disconnected from their original meaning since the destruction of the Temple, leaving both approaches struggling with practices that neither fully understands. The discussion suggests that post-Temple Judaism operates largely as memorial reenactment (zecher l'Mikdash), where Jews perform rituals based on written instructions without the living tradition that once gave them context and meaning.
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Contact Iyun Lemachshava English
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