How Can Judaism Advocate Such Particularist Love?
What are your neighbors like? What does it mean to love your neighbor as yourself?
Do you know what the term “Ahavat Yisrael” means? It is derived from the sentence in the torah which is translated, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
Miriam Brosseau, in this inspiring video, explains what being a good neighbor is to her audience. According to Jewish tradition, she says, “Neighbors should love their neighbors.”
The word “Ahava”, she says, comes from the word love or giving of oneself. The word “Yisrael” comes from our forefather Jacob, who wrestled with God. According to Brosseau, The words, “Ahavat Yisrael” are another way of showing vulnerability and offering kindness to strangers. It is seeing one’s struggle in others and helping them out. So, in other words, when you see your neighbor in a problematic situation, even if it looks like it’s nothing, offer them comfort.
Interesting. Share your thoughts.
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