Pirkei Avot: A Social Justice Commentary

by Shmuly Yanklowitz (Contributor), Ruth Messenger (Foreword)

Pirkei Avot is the urtext of Jewish practical wisdom. In many ways, the words of Pirkei Avot were the first recorded manifesto of social justice in Western civilization. This commentary explores the text through a lens of contemporary social justice and moral philosophy, engaging both classical commentators and modern thinkers.

Genres: Judaism, Jewish, Nonfiction, Judaica

464 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 29, 2018

Reviews

[Graham Cammock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant social justice.

This book is excellent, very long and it teaches you a lot about morality, ethics and social justice. The Jews go way beyond Christians with morality, ethics and social justice. Recommended.

[Anthionette E. · Rating 5 out of 5]

In today's world, it may seem as though the bad things of the world are winning out over the good. All around us, people wrestle with difficult choices in life, as well as ethical dilemmas. In times like these, having a guiding light can make a world of difference. That's exactly what Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz's book offers. On the outside, it could look like this book is a kind of scroll that explores ancient Jewish teaching. However, it is far more than that.

Commentary on Pirkei Avot is a heartfelt invitation to reflect on what it means to live ethically in a modern society. With a voice that feels both wise and approachable, Yanklowitz connects the age-old lessons of Pirkei Avot to the challenges we face. Grab the friendly hand of Rabbi Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz in his book titled Commentary on Pirkei Avot, as he helps you navigate through life's struggles with wisdom and purpose.

This is another deep and thoughtful read by Rabbi. Dr. Shmuly Yanklowitz. After reading a couple of the author's books, I realize how each book pushes you a step further to reflect on life and your values. Have you ever had an elderly person sit you down to discuss one or two things about life? If you've ever been in such a position, you'll understand how intense the conversation can be, and to be frank, you kind of get lost in the whole reflection process. It's somehow similar to this book, but the thing about this book is the breather it gives through swiftly switching to different life lessons in each section, allowing you to ponder on what has just been said.

The writing style was very accessible, and conversational. But one of the many things I love about this book is how Yanklowitz tries to bring in different perspectives, even including women's voices, which isn't something you always see in traditional Jewish commentaries. This book isn’t like a novel with a plot, so there’s no suspense or dramatic climax. Instead, it’s structured around unpacking the teachings of Pirkei Avot. Even though this book isn't like a novel with a plot, the commentary still builds on each chapter, giving it a kind of feeling like climbing a mountain. Basically, the higher you go, the more you see the bigger picture. Yanklowitz moves from personal ethics to broader societal responsibilities, and by the end, you’re left with this sense that everything is connected; which is that your personal actions really do impact the world.

Do you know the saying that goes "if you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together"? Kindness and justice are qualities that really matter to humanity. It's great to practice kindness and justice in our individual lives, but how much greater would it be if we all had the same value? We'd be able to make a bigger difference.

Furthermore, I found no errors in this book; it was exceptionally edited. I’d give Commentary on Pirkei Avot a rating of 5 out of 5 stars.

I recommend this book to anyone who’s interested in ethical living, personal growth, or leadership. It’s not just for people who are into religious studies; it’s for anyone who wants to become a better version of themselves, whether you’re Jewish or not.

[Arthur · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first commentary I read from this author, but I'll probably read the others as well. I wanted to read it and finish it be ween Pesach and Shavuot, but the last Shabbat we as a busy and difficult one and I didn't have the energy to finish it. Better late than never.
I find Rabbi Yanklowitz knows the subjects of his various opinions well, and he uses other Jewish texts and Rabbis opinions from different backgrounds to show the diversity and yet similarity of Jewish thought and (social) justice. As Jews we are called to action to tikkun olam, and Pirkei Avot is no different, but it's also much more. Our sages explore our relationship with ourselves, others, and HaShem, and how we must tend to and thread through the world to make sure to repair what's broken and make justice shine.

[Liam · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful commentary on a quintessential Jewish text. Focusing primarily on social justice and the role we have, Dr. Yanklowitz pushes the narrative that Jewish people have a moral duty to uphold justice in the service of tikkun olam.

[Ellen Wolintz-Fields · Rating 5 out of 5]

So much food for thought. Great source to use when studying Pirkei Avot.

[Jerry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it

This is such a beautiful commentary on traditional Jewish text. Just beautiful. Definitely worth reading. I highly recommend this book.

[David Rullo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yanklowitz concludes his commentary on Pirkei Avot by stating, "and now back to chapter one." Indeed, this is a book that calls for repeated reads. Well researched and filled with Jewish wisdom, Rabbi Yanklowitz has created a commentary that depends on the wisdom of the sages while staking its own space - social justice. A wonderful read for the current state of the world.