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Question How
would you describe a series of "Jewish milestones" that one might try
to attain at different stages in their lives. "By age 25 you should have
..." "By age 30 you should have ..." And so on, covering ages 25
to 45 in five-year increments. Looking for the off-beat, the less-than-obvious. Answer
In
"Ethics of The Fathers" 5:25 - the following age milestones are listed: At
20 - it is the time to pursue matters
At 30 - the time for strength and power
At 40 - we reach a level of deeper understanding
At 50 - we advise others.
This is explained by "Rashbatz" (R' Shimon Ibn Tzemach) that there are five year periods whereby we develop traits and trades, and we perfect it. Thus, at 25, the characteristic of pursuing a profession has unusually fulfilled itself. From there onward, we have the power struggle, the strength to accomplish matters, etc. At 30, we reach the peak of our strength. At 35, the power play as peaked and we begin to understand matters on a deeper level; not just superficially and in a biased manner. At 40, we have perfected that deeper understanding (see Talmud Avoda Zara 5b). At 45, our comprehension level has reached its highest point, and we begin to use our knowledge and experience to help the next generation.
With blessings from Jerusalem,Rabbi Shraga Simmons
Aish.com
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