Living Torah Archives

The Lag B’omer rallies and parades outside 770 drew thousands of Jews from all walks of life and backgrounds. The gatherings attest to the fact that despite all our differences in language and culture, there is a single unifying force that keeps all Jews together as one family. But what is that glue that binds us together, and how do we maintain it throughout the rest of the year as well?

There are many activities that can bring people together. Eating, drinking, and working together for a common goal are just a few examples.

G-d created human nature in a way such that no two people think alike. Nevertheless, He expects them to reach harmonious agreement.

The mitzvah to “love your fellow as yourself” raises a dilemma. What should you do when your needs are different from your friend’s? If you are thirsty while your friend is hungry, it would be un-loving to offer him a drink instead of food. If you have time for Torah study while your friend is struggling to make ends meet, it is wrong to help him learn Torah but ignore his need for help earning a livelihood.