Chapter 1

Shimon the Righteous was among the last surviving members of the Great assembly. He would say: The world stands on three things: Torah, the service of G-d, and deeds of kindness.

When the litigants stand before you, consider them both guilty; and when they leave your courtroom, having accepted the judgement, regard them as equally righteous…

Hillel would say: Be of the disciples of Aaron--a lover of peace, a pursuer of peace, one who loves the creatures and draws them close to Torah.

Rabban Gamliel would say: Assume for yourself a master; stay away from doubt; and do not accustom yourself to tithe by estimation.

His son, Shimon, would say: All my life I have been raised amongst the wise and I have found nothing better for the body than silence. The essential thing is not study, but deed. And one who speaks excessively brings on sin.

By three things is the world sustained: law, truth and peace. As is stated: "Truth, and a judgment of peace, you should administer at your [city] gates.''