Why Jewish Unity Matters: A Timeless Message for Our Generation

“Gather yourselves, and I will tell you what will happen to you at the end of days.” With these words, our forefather Yaakov opens his farewell to his sons before they descend into the depths of exile. His very first instruction is: “Gather.” Be together. Be united. Unity is the most essential value of the Jewish people.

Although unity is a value in its own right, when we consider how we appear in the eyes of the nations, it takes on an added dimension.

Why should we care what other nations think about us?

We certainly do not need to care when it comes from a place of insecurity or the desperate need to “find favor,” as the media often portrays. Our concern comes from the exact opposite place: we care because we are the chosen people. We are the world’s “representative team,” and with that status come higher expectations.

A Nation with a Mission

We have a representative role in this world. We are the “display window” of the King of Kings, the Holy One, blessed be He. Our mission is to spread awareness that there is a King over the world, the Creator and Guide of all existence, who made, makes, and will make all that happens. We are expected to do this with pride and strength.

The Jewish people were chosen for this task, and it is no coincidence that every morning we bless: “Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has chosen us from among all the nations.” Even the nations themselves recognize this.

Not Competing in the Same Arena

When we try to compete with other cultures in their own arenas, we only diminish and lower ourselves.

A humorous story illustrates this point: once, executives from several soft drink companies met — RC, Crystal, Pepsi, and Coca-Cola. Each one placed a glass of their cola on the table. Only the Coca-Cola executive set down a glass of water. When the others looked at him in confusion, he explained, “Do you really think I’m competing with these guys?”

The Jewish people are in a different league altogether. Our focus and purpose are different.

The Power of Unity in the Eyes of the World

Now we can understand the added value of unity when it comes to how we are seen by the world. Imagine how it looks when the nation meant to represent God is divided, conflicted, and constantly caught up in petty disputes.