The preservation of the yeshiva at Yavne is the prime example of Reb Yochanan ben Zakkai's lifework of keeping Jews and the Torah alive during the most turbulent of times. His five main disciples continued this lifework by doing all they could to ensure Jewish survival. Drawing on stories from the Talmud and Midrash, Rabbi Wein shows the tremendous personal integrity of the Mishnaic rabbis - even in their disagreements.

• living humbly vs. dying gloriously
• the moral lessons of the Talmud in historical context
• the greatness of being able to admit, "I was wrong."