The Torah tells us that Jacob came in peace into the city of Shechem. The Talmud elaborates that when Jacob entered the city, he instituted something for the welfare of the city. Rav said he minted coins. Shemuel said he established markets. Rabbi Yochanan said he set up bathhouses. The Midrash explains that whenever we benefit from a place, we must show our gratitude by doing something for its welfare.
This week, the city of Beverly Hills hosted 200 mayors for a conference put on by the organization Combatting Antisemitism. As a panelist on “How to Create Interfaith Partnerships,” I was honored to share the stage with the mayor of Helena, Montana along with fellow Christian and Muslim leaders in their respective communities. Both of these faith leaders have exhibited the courage to stand up against antisemitism not only since October 7th, but years before.
I could not help but think of this teaching that it is our responsibility to make our communities better. The connection between people, neighbor to neighbor, is where we better our society. Our ancestor Jacob did so in our homeland. We, too, should do the same in ours.
