Quote of the Day: Myself

“If I am not for myself, who is for me? And if I am only for myself, what am I? And if not now, when?”

Rabbi Hillel

Rabbi Hillel (c. 110 BCE – 10 CE) was a prominent Jewish sage and religious leader who lived in Jerusalem during the Second Temple period. He is considered one of the greatest rabbis in Jewish history and his teachings continue to influence Jewish thought and practice to this day.

Hillel is known for his emphasis on ethical and moral teachings, particularly his focus on the importance of compassion, humility, and social justice. He is also known for his debates and discussions with the rival rabbi Shammai, with whom he disagreed on many issues, but always maintained a respectful and constructive dialogue.

Hillel is credited with several well-known sayings and teachings, including the Golden Rule: “What is hateful to you, do not do to your fellow man. This is the entire Law; all the rest is commentary.”

Hillel’s teachings continue to be studied and celebrated in Jewish communities around the world, and his legacy as a compassionate and wise leader has had a lasting impact on Jewish thought and practice.

The above quote is often interpreted as an exhortation of personal responsibility and action. The first part of the quote, “If I am not for myself, who is for me?” suggests that an individual must take responsibility for their own well-being and cannot rely solely on the support of others. It emphasizes the importance of self-care and self-preservation.

The second part, “And if I am only for myself, what am I?” suggests that while self-care is important, it is not enough to live a fulfilling life. The quote implies that one should strive for a balance between caring for oneself and caring for others.

The final part, “And if not now, when?” emphasizes the importance of taking action in the present moment. It suggests that if one waits too long to take action, opportunities may be lost or the chance for personal growth and development may be missed.

Overall, the quote encourages individuals to take responsibility for themselves, find a balance between self-care and care for others, and take action in the present moment to achieve their goals and fulfill their potential.

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