By Shlomo M. Hamburger
August 29, 2024
Also available on Times of Israel blog.
In a recent Times of Israel blog post, Allan Ripp recounted a harrowing antisemitic encounter. As he described:
“I was speaking with a regional director at the Anti-Defamation League following a terrifying assault in New York’s Central Park, during which a man came at me with fists-a-blazing and a torrent of ‘Jew pig’ obscenities after I dared challenge him for riding a bicycle on a pedestrian path, this after he’d aggressively elbow-checked me while pedaling past.”
This story is a stark reminder of the reality we face as Jews in today’s world. The fear, anger, and feeling of being targeted, simply for who we are – these feelings are all too real. Yet, even as we confront the harsh truths of antisemitism, I believe there’s another path worth exploring: the transformative power of personal connection. This was the central theme of my five-part Times of Israel blog series, “Trials of a Jewish Lawyer.”
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the tide of hostility and prejudice. The news, social media, and daily interactions can make it seem like the world is increasingly hostile to Jews. But in the midst of this, we must ask ourselves: How do we live, work, and interact as Jews in a world that can seem, at times, indifferent or even hostile to our existence?
In response to rising antisemitism, some argue that we must arm ourselves, ready to fight at a moment’s notice. Others suggest laying low, blending in, or even laying down like sheep to the slaughter. I believe that both extremes miss the point. The answer isn’t in adopting a fortress mentality or denying who we are to avoid conflict.
So, where does that leave those of us who just want to live our lives and interact with others in a grounded, normal way?
The truth is, there is nothing wrong with wanting to live a normal, peaceful life. It makes us human. We don’t need to choose between aggression and submission; there is another path. This path involves living our lives authentically as Jews, engaging with others in meaningful ways, and refusing to let fear dictate our interactions.
Personal connections can be a powerful tool against hatred. When we engage with others, when we share our stories, and when we live openly and proudly as Jews, we dismantle the stereotypes and ignorance that fuel antisemitism. This doesn’t mean we ignore the danger – we remain vigilant, aware, and ready to defend ourselves if necessary. But our primary weapon is not a physical one; it’s the strength of our character and the relationships we build.
The strength of our character lies in our ability to hold on to our identity with pride and dignity, even in the face of hostility. It’s about resilience, about standing tall without the need to strike back in anger or hide in fear. Our character guides us in dark times, reminding us that our heritage, our values, and our humanity are not just defenses but affirmations of life itself.
And then there are the relationships we build—each one a bridge, each one a step toward a world where understanding triumphs over prejudice. Every time we reach out, every time we connect with another human being, we chip away at the walls that divide us. These relationships are not merely social niceties. They are acts of quiet revolution, reclaiming the narrative from the forces of hate.
This approach may not always be easy. It may not eliminate antisemitism. But it offers a way to live that aligns with our values – a way that doesn’t force us into a binary choice between fight or flight. It allows us to live with dignity, courage, and a sense of purpose.
In a world where the loudest voices often advocate for extremes, choosing to engage with others on a human level might seem like an act of quiet defiance. But it’s a defiance rooted in the belief that we can build a better world, one relationship at a time. It’s a commitment to clarity and normalcy in an increasingly polarized world. It’s an audacious statement that we refuse to let hate control our lives and define who we are.
