Unity in Our Community: A Reflection

"Gather together and I will tell you what will happen to you in the last days." This is how our forefather Jacob began his farewell address to his sons before they plunged deep into exile. His first word was: "Gather" – be together. Be united! Unity is the most important value for the Jewish people.

While our unity is valuable in and of itself, when we talk about our appearance in the eyes of the nations, it gains additional significance.

"Appearance in the eyes of the nations"?! Why should we care what other nations think of us?

Absolutely, we shouldn’t care what others think of us when it comes from a place of seeking approval (as the media often tries to convey). Our concern comes from an entirely different place: we care because we are the chosen people! We are the "team" of the world, and as such, the expectations are high.

We have a representative role in this world. We are the "showcase" of the King of Kings, Hashem. Our mission is to spread the knowledge that there is a King over the world, who creates and leads all of creation, who did, does, and will do all things, and we must do this with pride and strength! The Jewish people were chosen for this mission, and that is why we bless every morning, "Blessed are You, Hashem, our God, King of the universe, who has chosen us from all the nations". Even the nations know this.

Our attempts to compete with other nations in their areas of interest only devalue and diminish us.

It’s humorously said that there once was a meeting between the heads of different beverage companies (RC, Crystal, Pepsi, and Coca-Cola). Each placed their soda on the table. Only the Coca-Cola manager placed a glass of water on the table. To the surprise of those around him, he explained, "Do you think I’m in a competition with these guys?!"...

Jewish people, we are in a different league! Our areas of interest are different.

Now, let’s understand how much added value our unity gives us when we talk about our appearance in the eyes of the nations: Imagine how it looks when the people who are supposed to represent Hashem in the world are divided, conflicted, and constantly engaged in petty squabbles.

In contrast, how wonderful, respectful, and awe-inspiring it is when the people representing Hashem live in unity and love for one another! Anyone who observes us will immediately say: "Blessed is the nation that is like this! Blessed is the nation whose God is Hashem!".