Rabban Gamliel the Elder was a towering personality, the grandson of Hillel who led the Sanhedrin in the very difficult late-Second Temple period.

The first to be quoted in Pirkei Avot neither as part of a pair, nor as a “recipient” of previous generations, he advises every person “asei lecha rav” — to find a rabbinic mentor for themselves.

Rabbi Dunner gives the background to the change in format that begins with this mishna, explaining the unique nature of Rabban Gamliel and the role of his family in the Mesorah, and goes on to explain the deeper meaning behind Rabban Gamliel’s profound teaching.