What Was G-d Thinking?

Hate is considered to be the most destructive trait. It is singularly responsible for more violence and bloodshed than any other emotion. It is perhaps the most intense feeling known to man.

Hate is also highly complex, with a wide range of motives that can trigger it. However, there is one primary cause that underlies them all: envy.

What makes matters worse is the apparent lack of any cure for this condition.

So what was G-d thinking when he singled out the Jewish people by giving them his Torah as he revealed himself to them at Mount Sinai? Wouldn’t this monumental event have cataclysmic consequences. 

Even the Talmud acknowledges this by pointing out that the name 'Sinai' is etymologically related to the Hebrew word 'sinah,' which means hate.

G-d was undoubtedly aware of all the consequences that would be triggered as a result. 

He foresaw the deep, envious hatred that would engulf many nations. He knew that the gift of the Torah to the Jewish people would imbue them with a deep sense of purpose. The timeless values it spelled out would provide them with a transcendent navigation system, ensuring their continuity throughout the ages.

This leads us to the obvious conclusion that G-d had a universal vision and mission for all mankind. In creation, He designed an imperfect world with the intention of inviting all humanity to be His partners in perfecting it. He endowed Adam and Eve with a timeless and universal code to help mankind achieve this state.

At Mount Sinai, He designated the Jewish people as a light unto the nations, empowering them with the responsibility to guide all of humanity with their mission and purpose of making heaven a place on earth.

As children of Adam and Eve, created in the image of G-d, we are all responsible as His partners to turn this vision into reality.

We all have a vital stake in the game of life. There is no reason to be envious! 

Yosef Vogel