Empathy: The Jewish Norm
In Jewish life we are often encouraged to utilize our senses, emotions and human condition to add to the betterment of the world. In encouraging these actions Judaism seeks to have us step beyond our own self-preservation and make a difference in the lives of other people.
One of these central themes highlights the Jewish value of empathy or in Hebrew “rachmanut”. One place where this is found is in Torah, where numerous commandments emphasize the importance of caring for others, including the stranger, the widow, and the orphan, the ill, the mourner and the hopeless. For example, Leviticus 19:18 states, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” meaning in whatever condition you find them, which is a fundamental principle in Jewish ethics.
The Talmud, the central text in Rabbinic Judaism, also elaborates on the importance of empathy. It teaches that one should not only avoid causing harm to others but should actively seek to alleviate their suffering. The concept of “tikkun olam,” or repairing the world, is closely related to this idea, encouraging individuals to take responsibility for the welfare of others and the world at large. This dictum applies to us both physically and psychologically. To alleviate suffering or anguish is something we can do not just by physically saving someone but also but sitting and listening to the anguish, or anger, or sadness, or loneliness of someone else.
Empathy is also expressed through various Jewish rituals and practices. For instance, the act of giving “tzedakah” (charity) is not just about financial support but is seen as a way to connect with and support those who are in some sort of need. Charity does not only involve money. It is the act of giving something of value like time or space or comfort for example. The practice of “bikur cholim” (visiting the sick) is another example, where the presence and support of the individual and community are seen as vital to the healing process.
Empathy in modern Judaism is practiced through various teachings, rituals, and community actions that emphasize understanding and supporting others. Here are some key ways empathy is practiced today:
Empathy in modern Judaism is practiced through various teachings, rituals, and community actions that emphasize understanding and supporting others. Here are some keyways empathy is practiced today:
- Daily Practices and Teachings: Empathy is integrated into daily Jewish life through teachings from the Torah and contemporary educational research. For example, the Torah instructs not to oppress a stranger, as Jews were once strangers in Egypt, fostering a sense of empathy towards others. This principle is reinforced in modern Jewish education, which emphasizes understanding and sharing the feelings of others.
- Community Support and Charity: Acts of charity, known as “tzedakah,” are a fundamental way empathy is practiced. This goes beyond financial support to include emotional and physical support for those in need. Visiting the sick (“bikur cholim”) and comforting mourners are other examples of how empathy is expressed through community support.
- Inclusive Practices: Modern Judaism also emphasizes inclusivity and understanding of diverse experiences. For instance, the Reform Movement has made efforts to include LGBTQ+ individuals fully in the community, reflecting a broader commitment to empathy and acceptance.
- Educational Initiatives: Jewish educational programs often include lessons on empathy, teaching students to understand and share the feelings of others. This includes perspective-taking, refraining from judgment, and communicating understanding.
These practices show that empathy in modern Judaism is not just about feeling for others but also about taking concrete actions to support and uplift those around us. We are about to head into a new Jewish year. Wouldn’t it be wonderfully fulfilling to put empathy at the top of your to-do list of ways you hope to make this new year different.
Shalom Uvracha,
Rabbi Howard S. Herman DD