Pirkei Avot — Ethics of the Fathers
Hebrew: פִּרְקֵי אָבוֹת
Pirkei Avot (Ethics of the Fathers) is one of the most studied sections of Mishnah in Chassidus — its ethical maxims provide the practical framework for the inner life.
Teachings Most Cited in Chabad
”Know from where you came, to where you are going, and before Whom you will give an accounting” (Avot 3:1)
The Alter Rebbe cites this as the foundation of hitbonenut — knowing one’s origin (from God), destination (return to God), and constant accountability (standing before God always) generates natural humility and reverence.
”Make for yourself a teacher and acquire for yourself a friend” (Avot 1:6)
The basis of the Rebbe-chossid relationship in Chabad: the student must make (aseh) a teacher — the relationship requires active investment from both sides. A Rebbe is not merely found; the relationship is cultivated.
”Who is wise? One who learns from every person” (Avot 4:1)
Chabad teaching: every encounter is an opportunity for learning. The divine spark in every person has something to teach — the wise person recognizes this and remains perpetually open.
”The reward of a mitzvah is the mitzvah” (Avot 4:2)
Profound in Chabad: the mitzvah’s true “reward” is not external — it is the spiritual reality that the mitzvah itself creates and reveals. The mitzvah IS the connection to God; the connection IS the reward.
”One hour of repentance and good deeds in this world is better than all of the World to Come” (Avot 4:17)
The Alter Rebbe bases much of his teaching on the unique irreplaceable value of avodah (Divine service in this world) — no spiritual world, however elevated, can accomplish what the human being accomplishes through free-choice service in the physical world.
Sources
- Tanya, throughout
- Alter Rebbe, Likkutei Torah