D'var Torah: “Moshe received the Torah from Sinai and transmitted it to Yehoshuah” (Pirkei Avot 1:1). The Torah records in great detail the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai. Yet, the Torah reiterates at the beginning of Pirkei Avot that Moshe Rabenu received the Torah on Mount Sinai. Why was it necessary to repeat the universally accepted truth that HaShem gave us the Torah at Mount Sinai? Pirkei Avot does not deal with Torah laws, such as the prohibitions of Shabbat and the laws of Kashrut, rather it deals with moral teachings and good character traits. It might have been assumed that the ethical teachings of Pirkei Avot were made up by the Rabbis, just as the various nations came up with their own ethical teachings and rules of conduct. In order to correct this assumption, the first Mishneh of Pirkei Avot states, “Moshe received the Torah from Sinai.” Meaning, Moshe Rabenu received the ethical teachings of Pirkei Avot at Mount Sinai.
Moral: The ethical teachings of Pirkei Avot are pure Torah, that enlighten us with the path of goodness, holiness, and righteousness.
Application: Make the study of Pirkei Avot part of your Torah curriculum. Value the ideas of Pirkei Avot as much as you value the Torah laws. Repeat the Pirkei Avot teachings aloud, intending to integrate the truth of these great ideas into your heart. Fulfill the ethical instructions of Pirkei Avot and improve your conduct, character traits, and your love of HaShem.
(Based on the commentary of the Bartenura to Pirkei Avot)
