Rabbi Eliezer Chisma would say: the laws of kinin (bird offerings) and the laws of menstrual periods--these, these are the meat of Halachah (Torah law). The calculations of solar seasons and gematria are the condiments of wisdom.

Rabbi Eliezer the son of Azariah would say: If there is no Torah, there is no common decency; if there is no common decency, there is no Torah.

The collection-officers make their rounds every day and exact payment from man, with his knowledge and without his knowledge

“It is good to combine the study of Torah with an occupation” -- Which is more important, studying Torah or doing a profession.

“Be as careful in minor commandments as of a major one” -- What does G-d judge us by: the actual achievements or the work and emotion that is put into performing the commandments?

“Be as careful in minor commandments as of a major one” -- What defines larger or smaller commandments?

In this class you will learn some historical context to the authoring of the mishnah and the meaning of the Sages teaching that one should lead a balanced lifestyle.