Chapter 1: The Essence of Sacrifice in Judaism

Sacrifice holds a crucial place in biblical teachings, particularly within Judaism. Central to the temple in Jerusalem was the ritual of animal sacrifice. Life, in its essence, thrives through sacrifice. However, this act transcends mere sustenance; it occurs within a sacred space, prompting individuals to reflect on the fundamental truth that nothing can occur without sacrifice.

Beyond the sacrifice of animals, various forms of sacrifice are integral to Jewish life. Portions of the harvest are designated for the needy (known as truma), and land is returned to its original owners after fifty years (the jubilee). Additionally, certain harvest times are dedicated to rest (the omer, or sabbatical year), and personal wealth is shared through charity (tsedaka).

The destruction of the temple eliminated animal sacrifices, while the loss of land curtailed agricultural offerings. Consequently, the three annual festivals dedicated to temple sacrifices transformed into an increasing number of prayers, leading to a mechanical approach to spirituality among Jews in the diaspora. The essence of honoring the spirit of the Jerusalem temple today lies not in incessant prayers but in embodying the spirit of sacrifice.

This spirit, encapsulated in the concept of tsedaka, represents a commitment to justice through charity. However, monetary contributions alone are insufficient for true ethical clarity; the spirit of the temple calls for the sacrifice of time and enjoyment to assist those in need. It is not surprising that many Jews pursue humanitarian careers, reflecting the profound message within Judaism. The ultimate sacrifice, of course, is one’s life given to protect others.

These sacrifices can only flourish in a cohesive society where Jews can operate freely across all societal levels, necessitating an independent Jewish state. The return of Jews to Israel mirrors the instinctual migration of salmon; nothing can hinder their journey back to their roots, driven by profound needs for love, acknowledgment, solidarity, dignity, and familial bonds. In this light, Jews are willing to make significant sacrifices, as these efforts contribute to the establishment of a homeland, creating a lasting legacy for future generations. In contrast, the diaspora often embodies a legacy of sorrow and regret.

A one-armed Jewish war hero, Joseph Trumpeldor, famously expressed the sentiment: "It is sweet to die for one’s own country."

To resolve the ongoing conflict between Jews and Muslims over the sacred sites in Jerusalem, I believe the principle of sacrifice should be applied to the Temple Mount. Just as wise Rabbis decreed that stepping on the remnants of the holy temple is forbidden until people are deserving of access, this rule should extend to all individuals in Jerusalem. This would ensure that the site revered by monotheistic believers ceases to be a battleground, thereby restoring its sanctity and humanity. Sacrificing a small portion of land could alleviate religious tensions and pave the way for peace, as all communities yearn for Shalom and Salaam.

Interestingly, the Quran also acknowledges the return of Jews to Israel; Sura 17:104 states, "When the promise of the Hereafter comes to pass, We [Allah] shall bring you as a crowd gathered out of various nations."

Chapter 2: The Perception of Jews Through History

The video, "Stranger In My Own Land: Palestine, Israel, and One Family's Story of Home" with Fida Jiryis, delves into the complexities of identity and belonging for Palestinians and Jews. It presents a personal narrative that highlights the struggles and aspirations shared by these communities, emphasizing the importance of understanding and empathy in the pursuit of peace.