A Jew is supposed to follow the 'Abraham model' when hosting guests. In fact, Abraham’s open tent on all sides is commemorated at every wedding ceremony!
There has never been a Jewish court in history that took out an eye from one who caused another to lose an eye, or cut off the hand of someone who caused another to lose a hand.
The ideal era is when, according to Isaiah's prophecy, there will be no more war. But until that prophecy is fulfilled, there are times when war is required, justified, and even encouraged.
The event was part of an initiative by the Tzalash association – in this case, an acronym for 'Tzava Leshem Shamayim,' or 'An army for the sake of Heaven.'
The message in this week's Torah portion is to stand up for what’s right. We have to look inwards, not outwards, for strength, inspiration and direction.
Judaism is not against arguments, but it is against the wrong type of arguments. Arguing for the sake of truth with mutual respect is encouraged, and in fact, it is what made Judaism what it is today.
I’m proud to have been born in Israel, and I am enormously proud of how Israelis have built an exemplary society with equal parts of backbone and heart.