Judging Others

Shabbat Shalom from Rabbi Eitan Weiner-Kaplow

July 28-29, 2017 / 6 Av 5777

Shabbat Devarim

Shabbat Chazon – Preceding Tisha B’Av

Torah: Deuteronomy 1:1 - 3:22 / Haftarah: Isaiah 1:1 - 1:27

“Judging Others”

Dear Friends,                                                                                                 

How are we to sit in judgment of others? Even if we are not really judges in a court of law, as partner’s parents, relatives, and friends - we often encounter situations in which we must decide regarding another’s behavior.  In this week’s Torah portion, the first of the book of Deuteronomy, Moses tells us to be impartial and fair – easier said than done. Three rules are laid out to us: hear out the conflicting views, show impartiality regardless of the status of the individuals involved, and fear no one when you are ready to make your decision.

The great Rabbi Hillel says, “Do not judge another person until you have put yourself in that person’s place.”  The medieval scholar Rashi comments on Hillel, saying “Do not harshly condemn another for falling into temptation until you have been tempted by similar circumstances and have overcome them.”

Regardless of the situation, the basic rule is this: Be kind, compassionate, understanding, and fair.  Be clear, straightforward, responsible, and honest. This is how we bring justice to the world.  This is how we bring peace.

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi Eitan Weiner-Kaplow