Rabban Shimon Ben Gamliel Said: "The World Endures By Virtue Of Three Qualities - Justice, Truth, And Peace - As It Is Stated:[58] 'Administer Truth And The Judgment Of Peace In Your Gates.' "

The World Endures By Virtue Of Three Qualities

This mishnah does not run contrary to the second mishnah of this chapter, which states that "The world stands on three qualities," yet mentions three different qualities. As R. Ovadiah of Bartenura explains, the phrase "the world stands" refers to the very existence of the world, while the phrase "the world endures" refers to the successful development of society.

The world may exist because of the Torah study, prayer, and kind deeds of certain individuals. For society to flourish, however, mankind as a whole must come to appreciate the importance of justice, truth, and peace, and conduct itself accordingly.

(Sichos Shabbos Parshas Pinchas, 5739)

   

Notes:

58. (Back to text) Zechariah 8:16.