About the book
The great Jewish ethical tradition through a contemporary lens
In this new edition of the well-known Jewish classic, Berkson helps us see that Pirke Avot (Ethics of the Fathers) is more than just a fundamental religious text; it is also a compelling, contemporary ethical guide.
Berkson looks at the individual sayings, or mishnayot, through the interpretations of the great Jewish commentators and also within the broader context of Western thought—through views found in the Bible, the ancient Greeks, the Enlightenment, Buddhism, Confucianism, and American culture today.
The book’s most important and innovative feature is its exploration of the relationship between the beliefs of the ancient Sages and modern psychology, particularly the key to good relationships: ethical conduct. The result is a book that goes far beyond the plain meaning of the sayings to explore their ethical, psychological, and religious significance for us today.
Included are an extensive index and the full text of Pirke Avot in English and Hebrew on facing pages.
Editions of Pirke Avot
- Paperback
- ISBN 9780827609174
Read an Excerpt
The great Jewish ethical tradition through a contemporary lens
In this new edition of the well-known Jewish classic, Berkson helps us see that Pirke Avot (Ethics of the Fathers) is more than just a fundamental religious text; it is also a compelling, contemporary ethical guide.
Berkson looks at the individual sayings, or mishnayot, through the interpretations of the great Jewish commentators and also within the broader context of Western thought—through views found in the Bible, the ancient Greeks, the Enlightenment, Buddhism, Confucianism, and American culture today.
The book’s most important and innovative feature is its exploration of the relationship between the beliefs of the ancient Sages and modern psychology, particularly the key to good relationships: ethical conduct. The result is a book that goes far beyond the plain meaning of the sayings to explore their ethical, psychological, and religious significance for us today.
Included are an extensive index and the full text of Pirke Avot in English and Hebrew on facing pages.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pirke Avot about?
The great Jewish ethical tradition through a contemporary lens
In this new edition of the well-known Jewish classic, Berkson helps us see that Pirke Avot (Ethics of the Fathers) is more than just a fundamental religious text; it is also a compelling, contemporary ethical guide.
Berkson looks at the individual sayings, or mishnayot, through the interpretations of the great Jewish commentators and also within the broader context of Western thought—through views found in the Bible, the ancient Greeks, the Enlightenment, Buddhism, Confucianism, and American culture today.
The book’s most important and innovative feature is its exploration of the relationship between the beliefs of the ancient Sages and modern psychology, particularly the key to good relationships: ethical conduct. The result is a book that goes far beyond the plain meaning of the sayings to explore their ethical, psychological, and religious significance for us today.
Included are an extensive index and the full text of Pirke Avot in English and Hebrew on facing pages.
What core themes, tropes, or subjects are explored in Pirke Avot?
Society and Social Sciences > Society and culture: general > Social groups, communities and identities > Social groups: religious groups and communities
Where can I read a sample of Pirke Avot?
You can read an official preview of the few pages here https://www.book2look.com/book/9780827609174
Who is/are the Author/s of the book Pirke Avot?
William Berkson
What are the ISBN numbers for the physical and digital editions?
Pirke Avot is available as paperback(ISBN 9780827609174)
Where can I buy Pirke Avot online or support local independent bookshops?
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Where can I buy Pirke Avot?