Opinion: Jewish unity outweighs idolatry, Rabbi argues
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Rabbi Hayyim ben Moshe ibn Attar, an 18th-century scholar, proposed that God prioritises Jewish unity over strict adherence to monotheism.
While studying the Book of Deuteronomy, Rabbi Hayyim encountered a midrash stating that God will not punish Jews for idolatry if they maintain peace and unity among themselves. This idea, drawn from interpretations of the books of Hosea and Deuteronomy, suggests that internal division is a greater concern for God than the practice of idolatry.
The rabbi believed that a unified Jewish nation receives remission from God, even when engaging in practices considered sinful. He contrasted this with a divided nation, which faces punishment. The author, a retired principal from New Jersey, applies this ancient teaching to contemporary debates within Israel and among Jewish people globally. He urges Jews to avoid divisive tactics like blocking roads or vandalism, even when passionately disagreeing over important issues such as judicial reform or settlements.
The author suggests that, while ideally the Jewish people should be unified in religious observance, unity itself is essential for survival in a hostile world.
