Wisdom of Rabbi Hanina

- י ב מ -

Pray for the welfare of the government.

“Rabbi Hanina, the Deputy High Priest, said: Pray for the welfare of the government, for were it not for the fear it inspires, every man would swallow his neighbor alive.”

Tractate of Avot 3:2

Every person should pray for the welfare of the government ruling them. The state manages public affairs and establishes order. Without a ruling government, societies would descend into utter chaos.

There is order in both the natural and spiritual worlds; orderly studies and deeds are necessary for achieving self-improvement.