Rabbi Martin J. Applebaum The summer months are upon us, and I want to call attention to a most beautiful custom practiced during this time. From the first Sabbath after Pesach until the Sabbath before Rosh Hashanah, we have the custom of studying Pirke Avot, Chapters of the Fathers, every Sabbath afternoon. Pirke Avot is a tractate in the order of Nezikin, one of the sections of the Mishnah.

Nezikin is a very detailed and long treatise that deals mainly with judicial procedures and criminal law. But included in this order are the Pirke Avot, which are actually a guide to moral and ethical behavior. Their very placement sends a powerful message. The lesson is that it is not enough to avoid lawsuits, but one must go beyond the letter of the law and act ethically in matters of personal and business relationships. There are numerous guidelines set forth by our forefathers and rabbis of previous generations that are as relevant today as they were when they were recorded centuries ago.

There are six chapters studied during the fifteen weeks between Pesach and Rosh Hashanah. Each chapter is different but the introductory and concluding passages are the same. Each introduction starts with: No matter what, every Jew has a place in the world-to-come. The conclusion is: G-d gave us many commandments to fulfill so He could find ways to reward us. These assurances make the chapters easier for us to read and encourage us to integrate the lessons into our daily life.

In fact, most people already have some familiarity with the sayings. Many of the adages are well known and have been quoted in secular literature without giving the original source. I list just a few. Chapter and mishnah number precede the quotation.

1:15. Say a little but do much.

2:5. Don't judge your friend until you reach his place.

2:15. Let your fellowman's honor be as dear to you as your own.

3:1. Know from where you came, where you are going and before Whom you will eventually be giving an account of all your deeds.

3:16 Greet everyone pleasantly.

4:1 Who is wise? One who learns from everyone.

Who is strong? One who conquers his willpower.

Who is rich? One who is content with his portion.

4:17 There are three crowns... but the crown of a good name overrides them all.

4:27 Do not look at the outside of a jug, but rather, what is inside.

4:29 G-d is the Witness and the Judge...Before Him there is no forgetfulness or bribe taking. Don't think: that you can escape (from your misdeeds) in the grave.

Reviewing these makes for a rewarding and enriching study session. These guidelines mold a person into a wise, caring and, above all, noble Jewish human being; one who is a credit to his nation and humanity. Most importantly, he is a source of nachas to his Creator.

Wishing you all a very pleasant, safe and productive summer.

Rabbi Martin J. Applebaum is the spiritual leader of Young Israel of Margate.