Halacha Corner – The Mitzvah of Ahavat Yisrael
“Ve’ahavta lerei’echa kamocha”, the mitzvah of Ahavat Yisrael is a positive commandment to love every Jew in the same manner that we love ourselves. This mitzvah is a fundamental principle of Torah, and furthermore, it is the foundation of our Torah, upon which the entire Torah is based.
The mitzvot of comforting mourners, visiting the sick, bringing joy to a groom and bride, among other mitzvot, are all aspects of the mitzvah of Ahavat Yisrael. Having compassion for others is an aspect of this mitzvah, as well.
The Rambam in Sefer HaMitzvot describes this mitzvah in the following terms: if there is something that I want for myself, I should want the same for my fellow Jew.
Rav Yosef Yeshaya Braun, shlita, member of the Badatz of Crown Heights; One Minute Halacha, #397 (first half), crownheightsconnect.com
