“Eizehu mechubad hamechabed es habriyos – Who is honored? He who honors others.”
The use of the word briyos in the mishnah expands the implications of this proverb. The literal translation of the word briyos is “creations.” The mishnah is speaking of one who honors even those who have little redeeming qualities other than the fact that they are Hashem’s creations. He honors everyone without discrimination.
The Abarbanel says that a vessel can only yield that which it contains; it cannot produce something else. A plant can only generate the product of its seeds; it cannot yield another fruit.
Similarly, a person can only give to others only that which is inculcated within himself. If he proffers honor to others it indicates that he himself is honored – he possesses honor which he can pass on to others.
