Rabbi Yishmael Said: "Be Readily Submissive To A Superior And Be Affable To A Younger Person; Receive Every Person Cheerfully."
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)
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:
- (Back to text) Chulin 49a.
- (Back to text) Rashi, op. cit., mentions this view.
- (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.
