An End to Conflict explores the theme of conflict in the light of Chabad chassidic teachings. This book draws on centuries of Chassidic literature to take readers on a journey to understand the roots of conflict and divisiveness and the path towards healing and reunification.
Rich in insights for achieving greater unity and harmony within ourselves, our families, and our communities, An End to Conflict serves as a clear, easy to read introduction to fundamental concepts in chassidic thought and their application to daily life. The book does not shy away from contentious global topics such as climate change, religious strife, and the Arab-Israeli conflict. Both enlightening and empowering, An End to Conflict gives us the tools to resolve longstanding internal and external conflicts and achieve an ultimate state of peace.
Inspired by a talk of the Lubavitcher Rebbe on the theme of unity, delivered 30 years ago on the 25th of Adar, 5752 (1992), two days before a stroke left him unable to speak. This talk remains the Rebbe’s most recent address to us, inspiring and empowering us to find greater harmony within ourselves and with others.
Excerpts of the Rebbe’s talk on 25 Adar I, 5752 (1992)
The message of Vayakhel applies to the Jewish people and alludes to their being gathered together to form a single collective entity in the spirit of the commandment, “Love your fellow man as yourself.” This is possible, because all Jews share a single essence; all are “truly a part of G‑d from above.”
The importance of this service is emphasized by the fact that the Alter Rebbe placed the declaration, “Behold I accept upon myself the fulfillment of the mitzvah, ‘Love your fellowman as yourself,’ ” at the very beginning of the prayer service, making it the foundation of one’s daily activities.
In simple terms, this command means that when a person sees another Jew, he should try to unite with him, for in truth they share a fundamental commonalty. This applies not only to the Jews in one’s immediate community, but to all Jews, even those far removed, indeed, even those in a distant corner of the world. Needless to say, the manner in which these feelings of unity are expressed will differ in terms of the practical means of expression available, but the feelings of oneness are universal in nature.
This approach, the thrust to unite with one’s fellow Jews, will lead to the ultimate fulfillment of Vayakhel, the ingathering of the Jewish people to Eretz Yisrael.
(A full write-up of the talk can be found here.)
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