We’re not a religious publication, but we have been known to publish articles by Jews.

So: a few quick words about this week’s Torah portion.

Would you read a magazine that reflected a point of view with which you disagreed? Or would you boycott it, wish for it to fail, hope for the owner’s downfall, or even their death?

Would you remain friends with someone who disagreed with you about, let’s say, congestion pricing? Or about anything else?

This week’s Torah reading, Parashat Bo, recounts Pharaoh’s hardened heart, which led to Egypt’s downfall. The Haftorah, from Jeremiah 46, warns of Egypt’s fate, showing that societies allowing disagreements to escalate into violence invite destruction. The Talmud (Eruvin 13b) and Pirkei Avot (5:17) emphasize that respectful disagreement is part of human tradition—so long as it is for the sake of Heaven and does not descend into hostility.

Human beings will always disagree. Disagreements are how we learn. Important disagreements are important, but don’t let every disagreement define your life. “Every dispute that is for the sake of Heaven will endure, but one that is not for the sake of Heaven will not endure.” Pointless arguments are pointless.

Shabbat shalom to everyone who observes Shabbat. And to our other readers, have a great weekend.

^^^

Illustration by Kalyee Srithnam.