Biblical Lessons Urge Unity Between Israel’s Divided Communities Ahead of Elections
Yehuda Daniel Glass examines the historical divisions between the tribes of Israel, particularly between Joseph and Judah, tracing conflicts from the biblical era through the prophecy of Jeremiah. He highlights how the ancient split into the kingdoms of Israel and Judah weakened the nation, ultimately leading to their respective conquests by Assyria and Babylon. The article draws parallels between these ancient divisions and current political polarization in Israel, especially as the country approaches the Ninth of Av and upcoming Knesset elections.
Glass recounts key biblical episodes, including the tragic incident of the concubine at Gibeah, which nearly annihilated the tribe of Benjamin, and the subsequent efforts to restore unity through figures like King Saul and David. He explains how the rivalry between Ephraim (representing Israel) and Benjamin (aligned with Judah) culminated in the division of the united monarchy. Despite Israel’s greater resources and military strength, it fell to Assyria, while Judah survived longer but was eventually threatened by Babylon alone.
The prophet Jeremiah’s lament, voiced through Rachel mourning her lost children Ephraim and Benjamin, symbolizes the deep yearning for reunification. Rachel’s call from Ramah in Benjamin’s territory to Ephraim represents a plea for reconciliation and unity, which Glass interprets as a metaphor for healing the rift between the two kingdoms and, by extension, modern Israeli society.
Glass argues that contemporary Israel relies on two complementary "states": the dynamic, Western-influenced "Tel Aviv state" embodying economy and innovation, and the traditional, spiritual "Jerusalem state" rooted in Jewish values and heritage. He stresses that these two facets are not in competition but are essential and mutually reinforcing parts of the national body. Unity, he contends, should be pursued as an ideal rather than a mere tactical alliance, warning against repeating historical mistakes of division.
The article concludes with a call to reject proposals for political separation reminiscent of ancient splits and to embrace a genuine partnership that recognizes the unique contributions of each side. Only through such unity can Israel overcome internal divisions and external threats, fulfilling the prophetic vision of Jeremiah’s promise that the houses of Israel and Judah will be reunited.
