Ethics of the Fathers with Rabbi Mendel Kaplan(Perkei Avos)

The Meat of Torah: Ethics of Our Fathers: Avot 3:18

Rabbi Eliezer Chisma would say: the laws of kinin (bird offerings) and the laws of menstrual periods--these, these are the meat of Halachah (Torah law). The calculations of solar seasons and gematria are the condiments of wisdom.

Torah and Morality: Ethics of Our Fathers: Avot 3:17

Rabbi Eliezer the son of Azariah would say: If there is no Torah, there is no common decency; if there is no common decency, there is no Torah.

The Collector: Ethics of Our Fathers: Avot 3:15-16

The collection-officers make their rounds every day and exact payment from man, with his knowledge and without his knowledge

Torah vs. Profession Ethics of our Fathers: Avot 2:2

“It is good to combine the study of Torah with an occupation” -- Which is more important, studying Torah or doing a profession.

Achievements: Does It Really Matter? Ethics of Our Fathers: Avot 2:1

“Be as careful in minor commandments as of a major one” -- What does G-d judge us by: the actual achievements or the work and emotion that is put into performing the commandments?