Rabbi Yishmael Said: "Be Readily Submissive To A Superior And Be Affable To A Younger Person; Receive Every Person Cheerfully."

Rabbi Yishmael Said

Rabbi Yishmael was a priest,[48] and according to certain opinions a High Priest.[49] Despite his standing, he was prepared to show respect and warmth to all others.[50]

(Sichos Shabbos Parshas Acharei-Kedoshim, 5728)

Receive Every Person Cheerfully

This directive is connected to the instruction to adopt a submissive and flexible approach. A person might show humility and deference to others, but without enthusiasm, manifesting these qualities against his nature. With this directive, Rabbi Yishmael emphasizes that a person should internalize a high regard for his fellow man, and feel genuine happiness in his relations with him.

(Ibid.)

   

Notes:

48. (Back to text) Chulin 49a.

49. (Back to text) Rashi, op. cit., mentions this view.

50. (Back to text) Herein we see a connection to his ancestor Aharon, who "loved peace and pursued peace," as mentioned in ch. 1, mishnah 12.