Rabbi Yigal Cohen Urges Unity and Love Amidst Public Divisions in Israel

Rabbi Yigal Cohen, a prominent member of Israel's Chief Rabbinate Council, addressed the growing public divisions and disputes in Israeli society, emphasizing the Jewish tradition's call for love, respect, and unity among the people of Israel. He noted that despite differences in character, customs, and religious observance, whether Sephardi or Ashkenazi, Hasidic or Lithuanian, Haredi, religious, or traditional, everyone remains part of one family under the sovereignty of God.

Rabbi Cohen stressed that "love without cause" (ahavat chinam) is not merely an emotion but must be expressed through actions such as kind words, smiles, forgiveness, and respectful dialogue. He reminded that small acts of kindness can have profound effects, lifting spirits and healing wounds. Drawing on the teachings of the sages, he recalled that the destruction of the Temple was due to baseless hatred, underscoring the responsibility to increase love and unity.

He called on individuals to take the initiative in fostering peace by being the first to forgive, respect, and bring light to others, whether at home, work, synagogue, or online. Rabbi Cohen expressed hope that through mutual respect and genuine unity, the people of Israel will stand as one, hastening the coming of the complete redemption, the rebuilding of the Temple, and the arrival of the righteous Messiah. His message was delivered on the fast of Tisha B'Av, a day commemorating the Temple's destruction.