Rabbi Meir Kahane Highlights Israel’s Deep-Rooted Mutual Support and Divine Protection

In his commentary on the Torah portion Ki Tavo, Rabbi Meir Kahane reflects on the fundamental trait of mutual assistance and trust within the Israeli people, which he describes as a core strength that has helped the nation endure difficult times. He draws on a Talmudic story where a blind man carries a torch at night so others can see and help him, symbolizing the confidence that aid will be given when needed. This mutual reliance is not just occasional kindness but a deeply ingrained certainty among Israelis, exemplified by everyday acts such as younger people giving up their seats for the elderly on crowded buses.

Rabbi Kahane connects this societal trait to a spiritual dimension, emphasizing the trust Israelis place in God’s ongoing kindness. He cites a Sabbath prayer expressing gratitude not only for past divine kindness but also for the certainty of future help, which provides strength and reassurance. This sense of security is mirrored in the support system for reservists in the Israeli Defense Forces, where despite challenges, there is a collective understanding that they will always stand ready to serve, and the community supports their families.

He shares personal anecdotes illustrating this mutual aid, such as neighbors helping a reservist’s wife with her children, reinforcing the idea that the power of communal support lies not only in the acts themselves but in the confidence that such help will always be available. As the Jewish New Year approaches, Rabbi Kahane calls for unity and mutual responsibility, praying for continued divine assistance in Israel’s conflicts with Hamas, Hezbollah, Syria, and Iran, and expressing hope for ultimate victory and redemption through collective solidarity and faith.