Sefer Shemos begins with the words: “Va’eileh shemos—And these are the names...” According to the Kli Yakar, the letter “vav” at the start of the passuk is the “letter of life,” a letter that connotates attachment and connection, which hints at the middos hayesod and the purity of a Jewish life. The Bnei Yissachar explains that shalom, achdus, and keeping far from machlokes are a tikkun for all aveiros including any damage to purity, which is why the Kli Yakar notes that in the merit of being united and pure, Am Yisrael was zocheh to leave Mitzrayim.
Being personally involved in machlokes or sowing division between other people causes tremendous damage; conversely, taking care to maintain peace and harmony between people is a tremendous segulah. The benefits of shalom are felt in all areas of life, both in matters bein adam leMakom and bein adam lechaveiro, and we should never stop striving for greater unity among Yidden.
