Hebrew Bible

Jewish Wisdom for the New Year: 10 Timeless Jewish Quotes

Evelina Grezak
September 10, 2025

From Pirkei Avot to Proverbs: Start the Jewish New Year with 10 Inspiring Quotes from Jewish Texts!

As the month of Elul unfolds and we prepare for Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, it’s natural to turn to the wisdom of our tradition for guidance and inspiration. Elul is a time of reflection, renewal, and learning. For students heading back to school, and for all of us preparing for a fresh start, the words of our Sages and Scriptures offer timeless lessons.

Here are some of the most inspiring Jewish quotes from the Hebrew Bible and beyond to carry with you into the year ahead:

Jewish Quotes on Reflection & Renewal, Character & Kindness

1. “It is not incumbent upon you to finish the work, but neither are you free to desist from it.” (Pirkei Avot 2:16)

A reminder that even small steps toward growth, kindness, or justice are meaningful — especially during Elul and Rosh Hashanah, when we commit to positive change.

2. “Justice, justice shall you pursue.” (Deuteronomy 16:20)

As we enter the High Holidays, we are called not only to personal introspection but also to ensure fairness and righteousness in our communities.

3. “Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” (Psalms 90:12)

Rosh Hashanah invites us to pause and recognize the value of time, using it to create lives of meaning.

4. “Who is wise? One who learns from every person.” (Pirkei Avot 4:1)

Wisdom isn’t limited to books or teachers: it comes from humility and openness to others.

5. “If I am not for myself, who will be for me? But if I am only for myself, what am I? And if not now, when?” (Pirkei Avot 1:14)

A call to balance self-care, responsibility to others, and seizing the moment.

6. “The world stands on three things: on Torah, service, and deeds of loving-kindness.” (Pirkei Avot 1:2)

The foundation of Jewish values, reminding us that service to others is an integral part of our relationship with the Creator.

7. “Choose life, so that you and your descendants may live.” (Deuteronomy 30:19)

A classic verse often cited at the High Holidays, reminding us of renewal, growth, and responsibility for the future.

8. “The beginning of wisdom is the fear of the Lord, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” (Proverbs 9:10)

Rosh Hashanah is a time of awe, and this verse reminds us of the connection between awe of the Divine and wisdom.

9. “Make your Torah fixed, say little and do much, and receive every person with a pleasant countenance.” (Pirkei Avot 1:15)

An inspiring ethos of consistency, action, and kindness.

10. “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Leviticus 19:18)

The heart of Jewish ethics and a great guiding principle for the new year!

The Jewish New Year is not only about celebration but also about reflection, learning, and recommitment to our values. Whether through pursuing justice, speaking kindly, or making time for study, the wisdom of Jewish tradition continues to guide us today.

As we prepare to hear the shofar and welcome 5786, may these timeless teachings inspire us to grow, to learn, and to live with purpose.

Shanah Tovah U’Metukah — Wishing you a sweet and meaningful New Year!

And get ready for an inspiring year with our curated collections of Rosh Hashanah gifts, shofars, and Hebrew Bibles from Israel!