1. The Destruction of the Batei Mikdash and Its Causes
The Gemara teaches that the first Beis Hamikdash—Holy Temple—was destroyed due to three cardinal sins: gilui arayos—forbidden relationships, shfichus damim—murder, and avoda zara—idolatry. Since their sins were revealed (nizgala averinam), the length of their exile was also revealed (nizgala kitzam): seventy years in Bavel, after which the second Beis Hamikdash was built. In contrast, regarding the second Beis Hamikdash, since their sin was not clearly revealed (lo nizgala averinam), the end of their exile was also hidden (lo nizgala kitzam). The Gemara further explains that the second Beis Hamikdash was destroyed because of sin'as chinam—baseless hatred. This type of hatred can encompass all forms, even when people try to rationalize their animosity. As explained in Maamar Nechaltzu, even if someone gives a reason for hating another Jew, it is not a true justification; rather, it stems from an internal negativity or klipa, a spiritual impurity within themselves.2. The Chabad Approach: Spreading Ahavas Yisrael
The path of Chabad has always emphasized reaching out with ahavas Yisrael—love for every Jew. Our Rebbeim have taught that our primary motivation must be to combat sin'as chinam, specifically by practicing unconditional love—ahavas chinam. This principle underlies all aspects of our service and outreach. I received a call today from someone I rarely speak with. He questioned whether my efforts to encourage him to put on tallis and tefillin, leading him to greater observance, were such a big deal. He shared a story about his wife’s cousin who had been involved in drugs and ended up in jail in Connecticut. Upon his release, his first call was to his drug supplier, but just then a Chabad rabbi happened by and convinced him to change direction. Today, that young man is religious. My caller suggested that what this rabbi accomplished was far greater than what I did, but I responded that I am happy to take credit for any positive influence.3. The Tragedy of Division Among Jews Today
This level of ahavas Yisrael, reaching out even to those at the lowest points, is essential in combating division among Jews. Unfortunately, we see situations today—even in Eretz Yisrael—where Jews attack one another over differences such as dress or background. Such behavior is diametrically opposed to the spirit of these nine days and the imperative to practice ahavas chinam. These are days meant for unity and outreach. It is striking how some people with different perspectives might explain certain halachos in Shulchan Aruch differently. Yet when we study halacha carefully, we find profound principles not only for serving Hashem but also for how we treat one another.4. Lessons from Halacha: Preserving Human Dignity
Even those new to learning halacha can appreciate its depth regarding interpersonal conduct. For example, there is a halacha concerning tzitzis: if someone’s tzitzis are invalid only on a rabbinic level (pasul midrabbanan), the sages were careful not to embarrass him and allowed him to continue wearing them so as not to cause shame. This principle extends further: if someone is wearing tzitzis that are invalid on a Torah level (d’oraisa) but does so unknowingly (b’shogeg), you are not supposed to inform him if doing so would embarrass him by forcing him to remove his garment publicly. The Torah values human dignity so highly that it sometimes allows an accidental transgression rather than causing public embarrassment.5. Practical Applications: Sensitivity in Rebuke and Speech
This sensitivity should guide us in all interactions—even when correcting others in shul about mistakes or violations, one must do so without causing embarrassment or offense. If embarrassment would result from informing someone about an issue with their tzitzis or other mitzvos, it is better not to say anything at all. From here we learn how much more careful we must be about saying things that are hurtful or offensive in any context. The Torah’s concern for another’s honor teaches us how far we must go to avoid embarrassing or degrading others.6. Strengthening Ahavas Yisrael During the Nine Days
Especially during these nine days leading up to Tisha B’Av—a time dedicated to strengthening our love for fellow Jews—we must redouble our efforts at outreach and kindness. As illustrated by the stories above, our goal should be bringing others closer with love, care, affection, encouraging words, and actions that foster connection. As the Alter Rebbe writes in Tanya: through genuine outreach and acts of kindness motivated by love for every Jew, we may merit turning people around spiritually and bringing them closer to Hashem—the greatest possible nachas (joy) both for us and for our Father in Heaven.