Yom Kippur: What Mishnah Yoma teaches about Jewish unity and public conflict
Yom Kippur: What Mishnah Yoma Teaches About Jewish Unity and Public Conflict
Yom Kippur, the holiest day in the Jewish calendar, offers more than just a time for fasting and reflection. It also provides valuable lessons from the Mishnah Yoma about unity, disagreement, and the power of conversation across differences.
Our unique tradition of debate and respectful disagreement has long been a cornerstone of Jewish thought. By embracing this approach, we can explore new solutions to challenges where we have felt stuck, especially over the past two years.
In today’s complex world, these lessons are more relevant than ever. For example, in 2025, pro-Israeli activists and pro-Palestinian demonstrators clashed at a protest in New York, highlighting the deep divisions within our communities.
By drawing on the spirit of dialogue and constructive debate found in the Mishnah Yoma, we can foster greater understanding and work towards meaningful resolution, even amid public conflict.
