Despite the importance of the principle of human worth and responsibility, it is generally accepted that the principle of “Love your fellow as yourself” is more important, in the sense it is more demanding. While we should respect others for their ability and responsibility to choose goodness, respect is not enough. We must love our fellow human beings and act in their best interests.
Beyond this, love allows us to break through the barrier of our own selfishness, revealing the image of God within ourselves. God created us with a divine soul. However, to protect our free will and enable us to be independent, God concealed our soul’s divine light. When we interact lovingly with other people, helping them in times of trouble or rejoicing with them during times of joy, the image of God in them becomes apparent to us. In turn, our soul begins to shine too, allowing us to grow spiritually and improve our connection with God. The interpersonal mitzvot guide us in this direction.
The independence and uniqueness of every human being has negative consequences as well, namely the tendencies to separation, competition, and war. The great challenge facing us all is to reveal our inner unity, which is rooted in the oneness of God Who created everything and gives life to everything. Through faith, love, and cooperation, everyone receives blessing from the divine source. And it all starts with the mitzva to “Love your fellow as yourself.”
