In Parshas Re’eh (Devarim 14:1) the Torah commands: “You are sons of Hashem your L-rd; do not mutilate yourselves.” The word tisgodedu refers to a scratch or a wound, meaning that it forbidden to hurt one’s body with a scratch or a wound as a sign of mourning and pain over a dead person. Chazal (Yevamos 13b) explain this passuk as referring to achdus: “Do not form separate groups” (agudos) – in one city there should not be two leaders who contradict each other; rather, everyone should be united under one leader.
We can combine the two explanations of this passuk and say that the Torah is hinting to us the dangers of machlokes. When we do not act with achdus, it is as if we have an open wound.
Sometimes one has hatred in his heart for another. This hatred may be justified: The other person hurt us severely, and it is very difficult to let go of the hatred that developed as a result. But it is important to remember that the hatred hurts not only the person who hurt us; mostly, it hurts us. It cuts into our living flesh and causes our souls to be irreparably wounded. These feelings of hatred are so strong that they can destroy a person.
Even if you are justified – the truth is with you, and the other person hurt you and belittled you – it is very worthwhile to try to forgive him. It’s not easy, but it’s important. In this way you will live a peaceful and a more wholesome life.
You are sons of Hashem, Your L-rd.
People of the world say: “Stand up for your rights! Fight until you get what you deserve!” But we know that “Who is strong? One who conquers his evil inclination.” Strength and true joy belong only to those who know how to give in! When you give in, then you are a son of your Father in Shamayim, Who prides Himself in you.
It is not easy to reach this level, but by learning a lot of mussar and by combining bitachon and hachna’ah, we can achieve this.
