PIRKE AVOT. CAPITULOS DE LOS PADRES

Pirke Avot, or “Chapters of the Fathers,” is one of the most unique and cherished works in the rabbinic tradition. This treatise from the Mishnah compiles ethical and philosophical teachings from Judaism and is unique among Talmudic treatises because it focuses on morality and conduct rather than law. It contains reflections from great sages such as Hillel, Shammai, Rabbi Akiva, and others. The teachings have influenced both Jewish tradition and philosophy in general, it is a guide on how to live with righteousness and responsibility in society. The teachings are timeless and applicable to any cultural context, it has been commented on by many rabbis and thinkers throughout history. The commentary we offer today, taken from the works of Isaac Abravanel (1437-1508), is undoubtedly one of the most enlightening. It continues to be the bedside book of Sephardic Jews. A key figure of the Renaissance and a prominent thinker, Abravanel combined his scholarship in the Torah with his experience as a statesman and financier in the service of monarchs in Portugal, Spain, Naples, and Venice.