Rabbi Ishmael ben Elisha • Rabbi Ishmael the High Priest
Rabbi Ishmael
Era of the TannaimRabbi Ishmael ben Elisha, the High Priest, was among the foremost disciples of Rabban Yohanan ben Zakkai. He formulated the Thirteen Principles by which the Torah is expounded. His school of interpretation became known as the teaching tradition of Rabbi Ishmael.
Biography
Rabbi Ishmael ben Elisha, the High Priest, was among the foremost disciples of Rabban Yohanan ben Zakkai. He formulated the Thirteen Principles by which the Torah is expounded. His school of interpretation became known as the teaching tradition of Rabbi Ishmael.
Life Story
Childhood
He was a priest from the family of Elisha the High Priest.
Teachers
Rabban Yohanan ben Zakkai.
Students
The sages of his generation.
Family
He served as High Priest.
Key Events
The formulation of the Thirteen Principles; martyrdom for the sanctification of God's Name.
Influence
The Thirteen Principles became a foundational framework for the interpretation of the Torah throughout the generations.
Death
He was killed in sanctification of God's Name during the persecutions of Hadrian.
Writings
Mekhilta de-Rabbi Ishmael
Halakhic Midrash
A halakhic midrash on the Book of Exodus.
His Way and Views
Torah Study
The principles by which the Torah is expounded.
Halacha
He derived halakhic teachings through hermeneutical principles.
Ethics
Be yielding to authority and steadfast in bearing responsibility—the acceptance of the yoke.
Character
Humble and God-fearing.
Famous Quotes
"Be yielding to authority and steadfast under burden."
"Love your fellow as yourself—this is a great principle of the Torah."
Students
Teachers
Timeline
Birth
Martyrdom for the sanctification of God's Name