Q&A: Jewish Identity
Jewish Identity
Question
Hello Rabbi Michi,
I don’t understand the great excitement over the cohesion and unity that currently exists among the people. Any society in the world that was in danger the way we are would pull together and unite in one way or another, no? So why are we so excited about it?
2. What is the connection between the claim that because we are running away from our Jewish identity, we are being persecuted? Seemingly the logic should be the opposite: if we were to reduce our Jewish identity and, for example, become a state of all its citizens, people would harass us less, no? What is the Rabbi’s opinion on the matter?
Answer
1. Indeed, there is no reason to get excited. It’s just that against the background of the disputes and hatred of recent years, people tend to get excited about anything trivial. It really is heartening that at least this we haven’t lost. But six hours after the war, I assume everything will return to normal.
2. I have no opinion. It’s a homiletic claim like any other, and it doesn’t really interest me.