Nitai the Arbelite would say: Distance yourself from a bad neighbor, and do not cleave to a wicked person.

Ethics of the Fathers, 1:7

            

On the surface, Nitai the Arbelite appears to be conveying a simple, if redundant, message: Stay away from bad people. In truth, however, a much deeper lesson is implicit in his words. In fact, a close examination of his phraseology yields an altogether different sentiment.

What is the difference between a ``bad neighbor'' and a ``wicked person''? And why must one go so far as to ``distance oneself'' from the former, while, concerning the latter it is enough to avoid ``cleaving'' to him?

A ``bad neighbor'' means just that: not a bad person, but one whose proximity to yourself is detrimental to you. It may be that he is a righteous person, and that his path in life is, for him, most suitable and desirable; but if for you it is wrong and destructive, keep your distance.

On the other hand, a ``wicked person'' is not necessarily a bad neighbor if he is not in the position to influence you. From him you need not, and must not, distance yourself: on the contrary, befriend him, draw him close and help him improve himself, all the while taking care not to cleave to him and emulate his ways.

In other words: The evil in another is never cause for your rejection of him---only your susceptibility to what is evil for you. On the contrary, the ``wickedness'' of your fellow it is all the more a reason to become involved with him, and prevail upon him to cleave to the positive in yourself.