The Jewish Wisdom Database

A person is judged only by his acts at the time.

If you see a generation drowning in a sea of troubles, go forth and consider what the judges of Israel do!

If a man means to kill you, stike first!

Two kings cannot wear the one crown.

None is poor save him that lacks knowledge.

Knowledge acquired in childhood is not soon forgotten.

The air of Israel lends wisdom.

Dwell in Israel, even among a majority of idolaters, rather than outside Israel, even among a majority of Jews!

Whoso lives in the Land of Israel is as one who has God.

Who walks four cubits in the Land of Israel is certain of the next world.

The law of the land prevails.

Repentance and good deeds are a man's best lawyer.

No leader should be set over the community without first consulting it.

When a man is made leader of the community, he becomes rich.

Once a man is appointed leader of a community, he must be deemed mightiest of the mighty.

Legends charm the heart.

Who lends money to the needy free of interest is better than the giver of alms.

The punishment of a liar is that, even when he speaks the truth, none believe him.

Your own life must be considered before your friend's.

Whoever causes the loss of a single soul is as though he caused the loss of a world entire, and whoever saves one is as though he saved a universe.

Charity knows neither race nor creed.

To earn a living is as hard as the parting of the Red Sea.

Who acts from love is greater than who acts from fear.

When a life is at stake, one must not follow the majority.

Mankind are like plants of the field, some blossom, some wither.