Respect, Universal peace and Self-awareness

The Jewish attitude of tolerance, respect and appreciation for other religions and people from diverse backgrounds is based both on historical-sociological as well as theological-ideological reasons and is sourced in our Biblical tradition, "Be kind to the strangers amongst you, as you were strangers in the Land of Egypt."  

Ideologically, Judaism has never claimed monopoly on wisdom or piety, and has always embraced the pious amongst the non-Jewish and their non-Jewish beliefs as long as they follow the universal rules of moral conduct.  There was never an expectation to convert and/or embrace Judaism.  The highest attainment of human religious perfection, i.e. ‘Ruach HaKodesh’ (Divine Inspiration) is not denied any human being.  (Tana D’vei Eliyahu - 7th Century)

Judaism has never considered itself purely a ‘religion’ but basically a social entity, a 'People.'  As such, there is no room for feelings of competition or antagonism towards other religions.  As a people, Judaism strives to establish itself as a vital entity among other nations of the world. "A light amongst the nations."  Isaiah 42:6

There are three basic concepts in handling the interfaith issue:

1. Human respect
2. Universal Peace
3. Self-Awareness

Human Respect:  The rabbis taught (Pirke Avot 4:1) “Who is respected?  The one that respects others.”  Human respect and dignity is reciprocal.  Your chances to be respected and honored as an individual, as well as a group, depend on your behavior and attitude towards others.  One who has no respect for his fellow man, can hardly expect respect in return.

Universal Peace:  ‘Darche Shalom’ (ways of peace) is an important idea in rabbinic law.  “The ways of Torah are ways of pleasantness and they lead to peace.”  (Proverbs 3:17)  This is a biblical motto and a guide in developing human relationships.    

Self-Awareness: Genuine respect and friendliness towards others stem from self-appreciation and self-dignity.  This self-awareness stems from attitudinal and behavioral qualities rather than from any mythical, mystical or theological notions.  By developing a positive approach to one-self, to one’s own dignity and integrity, one fosters a positive attitude of respect and friendship towards all men and women.  A respect for one’s own heritage and faith should be built not on belittling others, but rather on enlarging the scope of understanding of, and openness towards, human beings in general and appreciation of their rich divergence.  

Rabbi Baruch Plotkin