As we approach another presidential election, we may feel tension rise in conversations with friends, family, and colleagues. Political divides have become increasingly difficult to bridge, leaving many of us feeling disconnected from others whose views differ from our own. Jewish tradition, however, offers a timeless lesson on how we might foster greater empathy, respect, and understanding—even in the face of disagreement.
The Baal Shem Tov, founder of the Chassidic movement, taught that the people we encounter serve as mirrors reflecting back to us our own qualities, even those we might prefer not to see. When we judge or criticize others, we often project our own faults onto them. In other words, if we see something negative in another person, it may be that G-d is showing us this fault because it exists within us, hidden from our own self-awareness. Recognizing this pattern can be incredibly liberating; it allows us to move away from judgment and toward personal growth.
This principle resonates in the story of Noach and his sons, as described in the Torah. When Noach fell into a moment of weakness, two of his sons, Shem and Yaphet, chose not to focus on his failings. Instead, they honored him by covering his vulnerability. In contrast, their brother Cham chose to highlight and expose Noach’s shame. Shem and Yaphet’s act of covering their father was not merely a display of respect—it was a choice to look past faults and, instead, find a way to bring dignity to the situation. By refusing to focus on Noach's weakness, they showed that they were free from a similar flaw themselves, whereas Cham’s response suggested he shared in the same failing he perceived in his father.
When we look around us in today’s world, especially in a highly polarized political environment, it is easy to see the “faults” in others. Social media and news outlets often amplify these judgments, encouraging us to criticize or reject those who don’t share our views. Yet, the teachings of the Baal Shem Tov remind us to see these moments as opportunities for introspection. When we notice frustration rising over someone else’s “ignorance” or “bias,” we might pause and consider whether there’s an underlying frustration within ourselves—maybe we’re impatient or fearful, or maybe we have trouble seeing another perspective.
A practical approach to applying this idea might be to shift from criticism to curiosity. Instead of assuming that others are wrong or misguided, we can seek to understand the values behind their beliefs. Political disagreements often involve deeply held values and concerns. By listening with openness, we may discover common ground or, at the very least, gain insight into why someone feels as they do. This approach doesn’t require us to change our beliefs, but it does foster respect and a willingness to see the whole person, not just their stance on a single issue.
Torah reminds us of the importance of seeing others not as strangers or adversaries, but as part of a shared human family. There is a Jewish principle that all souls originate from the same source. This teaches us to approach others with the understanding that beneath our disagreements, we are interconnected.
Like Shem and Yaphet, rather than highlighting or dwelling on weaknesses, we might instead ask ourselves, “How can I help? How can I contribute positively to this relationship or situation?” When we focus on helping rather than judging, we create an environment where unity can flourish.
As we navigate the complexities of the current political climate, let’s remember that every encounter offers an opportunity to learn and grow. By focusing on understanding and respect, we can rise above divisiveness and find unity—even amid our differences. In doing so, we become a source of light in a world that could always use a little more kindness.
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