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Hatred is a concept that appears throughout the Jewish textual tradition. The Torah commands against harboring hatred for one’s fellow in one’s heart, and rabbinic sources discuss the parameters of hatred, under what circumstances hatred might be permitted or even encouraged, how to avoid harboring hatred, and the halakhic ramifications for one whose actions are motivated by hate.
Notable Sources
All Sources
A
The Commandment Against Hatred
TANAKH
Leviticus, the third book of the Torah, contains ethical commandments that instruct on healthy interpersonal relationships, including the prohibition against harboring hatred and the obligation to reprove one's neighbor.
The Philosophical Failure to Address Anti-Semitism
JEWISH THOUGHT
Modern philosophy has largely failed to confront and address anti-Semitism, with many prominent philosophers holding prejudiced views. Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, in his modern commentary on the Passover Haggadah, explores the historical and philosophical context of anti-Semitism.
Overcoming Hatred Through Writing
CHASIDUT
Rabbi Kalonymus Kalman Shapira presents a unique psychological approach to overcoming hatred through a practice of writing and repeatedly reading a letter expressing one's negative emotions. His early 20th-century work, Chovat HaTalmidim, offers guidance on spiritual and emotional self-improvement tailored for young Jewish students.
The Seeds of Rebellion
MIDRASH
Personal grievances and manipulation can fuel hatred, as seen in Korah's rebellion against Moses. Louis Ginzberg's early 20th-century compilation, 'Legends of the Jews,' retells the biblical story of Korah's rebellion, highlighting themes of leadership, jealousy, and divine authority.
Impartiality in Judgment
MISHNAH
The impartiality of judges is crucial to ensuring justice, and personal biases such as love or hate can disqualify a judge from a case. The Mishnah, an early third-century compilation of Jewish oral laws, discusses the disqualification of judges due to personal bias and emphasizes the integrity of the Jewish people in legal matters.
Hatred Over Love
TALMUD
In the story of Esther, the king's servants acted out of hatred towards Haman rather than love for Mordecai. This dynamic is explored in the Talmudic tractate Megillah, which delves into the motivations behind their actions.
The Forfeiture of Pride
TANAKH
God's intense loathing for the pride and fortresses of Jacob leads to a declaration of forfeiture for the city and its inhabitants. The prophet Amos, speaking during the First Temple period, condemns the arrogance and insincere worship of the northern kingdom of Israel, foretelling their future punishments.
The Hidden Dangers of Suppressed Hatred
SECOND TEMPLE
Hatred that is suppressed and not expressed openly can grow more violent and bitter over time. Philo of Alexandria, a first-century Jewish philosopher, explores the internal and secretive nature of hatred through the biblical story of Joseph and his brothers.
The Eternal Enemy
CHASIDUT
The historical and perpetual enmity of Amalek towards the Jewish people is a symbol of ongoing threats and challenges. Amalek's attacks on the vulnerable members of Israel and their continued threat through figures like Haman are central themes in Jewish history and tradition.
The Depths of Esau's Hatred
KABBALAH
The Zohar delves into the intense and personal nature of Esau's hatred towards Jacob, revealing the emotional depth and long-standing desire for harm that Esau harbored. This foundational work of Jewish mysticism, the Zohar, explores the esoteric dimensions of biblical narratives, including the complex relationship between Esau and Jacob.
The Plot to Exterminate
COMMENTARY
The Book of Esther recounts a plot to exterminate the Jews, highlighting the explicit and formalized intent to annihilate a group of people. Rashi, the renowned medieval Jewish commentator, provides insights into the Book of Esther, which is significant during the Jewish holiday of Purim.
A Plea for Divine Justice
LITURGY
The Edomites played a significant role in the destruction of the Temple and the suffering of Israel, and this text calls for divine retribution against them. This liturgical poem, recited on the Sabbath before Purim, reflects on historical enemies and invokes a plea for God to remember their sins and seal their fate.
Seeking Divine Retribution
TANAKH
The psalmist's prayer reflects a deep yearning for divine justice against those who harbor and act upon evil thoughts. Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz's modern translation and commentary on the Hebrew Bible provides clarity and accessibility, connecting readers directly to the plain meaning of the text.
The Universal Failure of Humanity
JEWISH THOUGHT
The Holocaust was not just a Jewish tragedy but a universal moral failure, implicating all of humanity. Eliezer Berkovits explores the collective responsibility and moral bankruptcy of Western civilization during the Holocaust.
Restoring Love and Harmony
MUSAR
Nurturing hatred in one's heart can be destructive, whereas addressing grievances directly can restore love and harmony. In his 17th-century work, Shenei Luchot HaBerit, Rabbi Isaiah Horowitz emphasizes the importance of resolving personal grievances directly with the person involved.
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