Q: Last week you wrote about the Temple and I was wondering that if it was so vital, what led to its destruction? Why don’t we have a Temple anymore?

 

A: Your question is based on the assumption that the destruction was not just due to an enemy not liking us rather it is something we, the Jewish people did that led to it. And you are absolutely correct.

 

The Talmud tells us that the first Temple was destroyed primarily due to the sin of Idolatry and the second because of “Sinat Chinam – Baseless Hatred.” What’s fascinating about that is that the exile following the first Temple was only for 70 years and after the second it has been close to 2000 years. This drives home a very important message: The worst thing possible thing for the Jewish people and their survival is a lack of unity as it leads to utter destruction and desolation.

 

From this, we can take a message, especially during this time of year when we mourn the destruction is to work on “Ahavat Chinam – Baseless love.” To show love to a fellow Jew even if we strongly disagree with them. This is the only way to bring about the rebuilding of the Temple. May that take place very soon.

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