Rabbi Zamir Cohen Says Israel Has Not Yet Reached True Peace Despite Statehood Achievements

During his weekly lesson, Rabbi Zamir Cohen addressed the tension between traditional Jewish teachings and the current national and political reality in Israel. He was asked about the Talmudic statement from the Jerusalem Talmud: "Any generation in which the Temple is not rebuilt is considered as if it destroyed it." This question arose in light of Israel's modern achievements, including its independence, economic stability, and military strength.

Rabbi Cohen explained the gap between Israel's physical sovereignty and the full sense of security and freedom. He stated, "With all due respect to the state and government here, it cannot be said that we have reached rest and inheritance," citing ongoing security threats from within and outside the country, as well as restrictions on personal freedom and movement in certain areas.

He recalled a rabbinic debate from about 40 years ago, when a rabbi suggested removing the "Nachem" prayer on Tisha B'Av, which mourns the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple. That rabbi argued Jerusalem was no longer desolate, but the majority of leading rabbis opposed this, insisting the prayer remain until the coming of the Messiah. Rabbi Cohen emphasized that despite visible rebuilding, Israel remains constrained by external influences, such as dependence on the United States and global opinions.

To illustrate the difference between the current reality and the ideal of full redemption, Rabbi Cohen used a parable: living today is like someone born in a dark cave who only knows a single light bulb, unaware of the vast world outside. He concluded by stressing that the generation that has not rebuilt the Temple has not yet corrected itself, and the main correction needed is to overcome baseless hatred with unconditional love.