Living Torah Archives

To “counter the stubbornness of those who insist on giving away the Land of Israel” the Rebbe initiates the signing of the nigun Utzu Eitza, based on the verse: “Contrive a scheme, but it will be foiled; conspire a plot, but it will not succeed, for G-d is with us.” (Isaiah 8:10)

Song lyrics: “Behold how good and how pleasant it is when brothers dwell together.” (Psalm 133:1)

At the very beginning of Yom Kippur, before Kol Nidrei, we declare: “With the sanction of the Omnipresent, and with the sanction of the congregation, by authority of the Heavenly Court, and by authority of the earthly court, we hereby grant permission to pray with those who have transgressed.” All agree that on this day, there are no differences between Jews; they all stand united as one in the presence of G-d.

Chasidim sing a favorite Nigun of Rabbi Shmuel of Lubavitch, the Rebbe Maharash

Unfortunately, there are those who stubbornly insist on giving away the Land of Israel. To nullify this stubborness, let us sing the verse: “Contrive a scheme, but it will be foiled; conspire a plot, but it will not materialize, for G-d is with us.” (Isaiah 8:10)

The unity of all Jews derives from the fact that every Jewish soul is “an actual part of G-d Above.” Therefore, “Jewish unity” is not limited to Jews who are alive, but includes those who have passed on, as well.

G-d depends on each and every individual to carry out Torah’s mandate. To be entrusted with this mission by G-d Himself, should fill a person with the greatest sense of worth and joy. But what if this responsibility makes him feel more overwhelmed than overjoyed?

Every Jew, regardless of his background or situation, is “truly a part of G-d above,” for “we all share one Father.” But differences of opinion and outward appearances may sometimes obscure this unity. Therefore, we are commanded to “love your fellow” specifically, “as yourself,” bringing this unity to the fore.