Story Summary
Explore the wisdom of Hillel and the Convert in this Talmudic tale about patience and the true essence of the Torah condensed into a single golden rule.
In ancient Jerusalem, two great sages, Shammai and Hillel, represented two different approaches to Jewish law. One day, a man approached Shammai with a strange challenge: 'I will convert to Judaism if you can teach me the entire Torah while I stand on one foot.' Shammai, known for his strictness and lack of patience for such insolence, drove the man away with a builder's ruler. Undeterred, the man went to Hillel with the same request. Hillel, famous for his kindness and humility, did not grow angry. Instead, as the man balanced on one leg, Hillel smiled and said: 'What is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbor. That is the whole Torah; the rest is commentary; go and learn it.' The man was so moved by Hillel’s wisdom and patience that he converted and became a devoted student, realizing that the heart of faith is found in how we treat one another.
The Moral
The essence of spiritual life is empathy and kindness toward others; everything else is a detail meant to support that goal.
“What is hateful to you, do not do to your neighbor. That is the whole Torah; the rest is commentary; go and learn it.”
Fun Fact
This story is recorded in the Babylonian Talmud in Tractate Shabbat 31a and serves as a foundational example of the 'House of Hillel' school of thought.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the moral of Hillel and the Convert?
The moral is that empathy is the core of all religious and ethical life. By treating others as we wish to be treated, we fulfill the highest purpose of the law.
Who were Hillel and Shammai?
They were two of the most influential Jewish leaders during the late Second Temple period. Shammai was known for his strict adherence to the letter of the law, while Hillel was known for his patience and compassion.
What does 'standing on one foot' symbolize?
It symbolizes the man's desire for a quick, concise summary of a complex tradition. It represents the search for the fundamental principle that underlies everything else.
Is this the origin of the Golden Rule?
While similar concepts exist in many cultures, Hillel's phrasing is one of the most famous Jewish expressions of the 'Negative Golden Rule,' focusing on avoiding harm to others.
Why did Shammai reject the convert?
Shammai likely felt that the man's request was disrespectful or trivialized the vast depth of the Torah, which requires years of dedicated study to master.
How did Hillel's answer impact the man?
Hillel’s patience and the profound simplicity of his answer inspired the man to actually engage in the 'commentary,' leading him to a life of study and conversion.
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