In chapter one of Pirkey Avot we read, “Hillel would say: Be of the disciples of Aaron—a lover of peace, a pursuer of peace, one who loves the creatures and draws them close to Torah”.
Our Sages were very careful about each word they wrote. Would it not have been sufficient for Rabbi Hillel to have said, “Love peace and pursue peace” and leave mention of Aaron out? There must be something that we can learn from the fact that Aaron was mentioned as the one who loved and pursued peace.
Who was Aaron? He was the High Priest, the one who served in the Holy of Holies. Because of his exalted position he could have totally separated himself from the rest of the people. Yet, he purposely involved himself in the day-to-day activities of the Jewish nation. So much so that even when two Jews, or even a husband and wife, were fighting he spoke to them and encouraged them to make peace. Thus, we are enjoined to be students of Aaron and learn this wonderful characteristic from him.
In addition, to love and pursue peace is a positive commandment, as the Talmud teaches, “Anyone who strengthens an argument or dispute commits a transgression.” Thus, we are to behave like Aaron, who would say, “sholom”--hello--peace--even to an evil person. Through this he was able to bring the person closer to the Torah
May we all take to heart this lesson of Rabbi Hillel as exemplified by Aaron.
