January 10, 2025

I know. I’ve probably lost you already with that title. But hang on, don’t delete just yet. Today is the 10th day of the Hebrew month of Tevet. It’s a fast day because the 10th of Tevet was the date that began the siege of Jerusalem which eventually led to the destruction of the Temple.

As I write this, there is horrific destruction in Los Angeles from fires that are burning out of control. Unlike the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem, this is a bit closer to home, geographically and time-wise. Some of our members are there now, many celebrities have lost their homes, and thousands of people we don’t know are displaced and praying for themselves, their neighbours, and their belongings.

It is said that the Temple was destroyed because of baseless hatred, sin’at chinam, which translates directly to “hatred for free”.  In other words, we Jews weren’t getting along. We fought and did cruel things to each other and we were punished for that. The actual destruction of the Temple took place seven months later, on the 9th of Av. In that seven-month period, it is believed that our People had the opportunity to change their ways and be forgiven. Had that happened, so our Sages say, the Temple would have survived.

Also happening as I write this, people are fighting. IDF soldiers are fighting, but they have no choice. They are literally fighting for their lives and the lives of all Israelis. But that’s not what baseless hatred is. Baseless hatred is what is directed at us from all those who cry for “Death to the Jews”. No real reason, they simply hate us. Period. No reason for them to hate Israel. They just do.

On this day, on this date, even if you’re not fasting, take a moment to think.  Recognize that the same fear that grips those in Los Angeles right now is the same fear that gripped our People when Nebuchadnezzar’s army laid siege to Jerusalem. It is a fear not only for their personal safety, but a fear for their lives as they know them to be. Recognize, too, that we must never – NEVER! – direct destructive feelings of baseless hatred towards one another. 

May the LA Communities escape these fires safely, may our brave soldiers be protected from harm, and may the hostages come home soon!

Am Yisrael Chai!