A Good Name Printed with permission from "The Chesed Boomerang" by Jack Doueck www.judaicapress.com Rabbi Shimon declared (Pirkei Avot 4:13): “There are three crowns. The crown of learning, the crown of priesthood, and the crown of royalty; but the crown of a good name exceeds them all.” No doubt, by perpetuating acts of chesed, such as charity, you make your imprint on the world. If you never let a day go by without performing chesed, then day after day you are building a “good name”, a fine reputation for yourself. Proverbs (22:1) declares: It is better to choose a good name than riches.” The Mishnah (Avot 2:8) agrees. “If one has acquired a good name, he has acquired it for himself”. Obtaining a “good name” through charity is a wonderful way to live. When people speak about you in your absence it will be with love, respect and with praise. If you have a need, your fine reputation will always precede you and help protect you. Return to 'Our Tradition' Menu