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The Politics of Hatred

By Shlomo Maital  

      Consider the ‘new populist politics’ now prevalent in Israel, the US, and other countries.

      It is the politics of V.  Not “V” for values and vision.  V for vengeance, vindictiveness, vitriol, violence.  It is the politics of hatred.  Hate those who do not agree with you.  And…worse, yet,  act on that hatred.

      This week, Jews everywhere are reading a key chapter in the book of Deuteronomy.  And it counsels hatred (?).  Remember “Amalek” (an enemy leader who attacked the Israelites from behind, on their way to the Holy Land), we are told.

UK Chief Rabbi, explains:  The intent is the opposite.  Remember, in order NOT to let hatred dominate your thinking and your emotions.  Battle your enemies.  Defeat them. And – do not hate them.  This is stated clearly in this chapter of the Bible:  do not hate the Edomites, do not hate the Egyptians, even though Egypt enslaved you and Edom fought you.

         Some 20 years ago, Israel extracted settlers from Gaza.  Members of the current Israeli government have vowed vengeance – and two decades later, seek to destroy the democratic system that led to the withdrawal from Gaza.  It is driven by deep burning hatred.

         The Hamas leader, imprisoned for two decades in Israel, attacked Israel on October 7, 2023, and killed many women and children and elderly, often brutally.  The result led to a huge disaster for the people of Gaza – death and destruction.  The UN Secretary General Gutierres asks Israel, ‘what did you expect?’, referring to the Hamas attack.  We ask him, and supporters of Hamas – what did YOU expect?  Give them expensive presents?

          Now, it is time for efforts at conciliation.  Not hatred.  Athletes know that competing on the basis of burning hatred addles the brain and prevents it from properly strategizing and winning. Rattle you opponent, get them ‘emotional’ – and you are on your way to winning. 

           Same for nations. Nations with leaders who leverage hate will ruin their followers and their nations.  It is happening before our eyes. 

           Alas.