Dear Kehila,
During this time of year, I enjoy studying and reading Pirkei Avot (Ethics of our Fathers). I would like to encourage everyone to benefit from this beautiful gem of wisdom.

In Pirkei Avot, we learn about giving respect and dignity to others form a Torah perspective. 

In Chapter 4 Mishna 1 it reads, “Who is the one that is truly deserving of honour and respect? It is the one who honours and respects G-d’s creations.”

The language used here is strange. Why do we use the term “G-d’s creations?” It could have simply said that we must respect “all human beings.”

Rather here, the Mishna is teaching us something about what it means to truly respect another. Sometimes the world around us, gives awe and respect to a successful entrepreneur, athlete or actor. While these superstars are successful, they enjoy admiration from the masses. But when the time comes that they are no longer successful or famous they tend to lose the respect of others.

This is because the honour and respect that was given was not aimed at the person they were admiring but solely it was aimed at the success. The success and not the person.

The Sages teach us otherwise and remind us to respect and love “G-d’s creations.” To focus on the person for who they are, regardless of the success or fame that they may or may not have. We show respect because they are created in G-d’s image. An essential deep respect that transcends all prejudices and expectations.

This is the type of respect that people yearn for. To see the other for who they truly are and not just based on their circumstances.

Shabbat Shalom