Dear Matzav Inbox,
In recent years, there has been an increasing usage of the term ahavas chinom—a phrase that, although widely understood in contemporary discourse, is, in fact, not a hashkafically correct term. The true expression, which should be used in its place, is ahavas Yisroel, which carries a deeper and more accurate meaning according to Torah sources.
The tikkun for sinas chinam is not ahavas chinam. It’s sina k’halacha and ahava k’halacha. I am always shocked at people publically discussing ahavas chinom, as this does not seem to be a Torah idea or ideal. Who we love and hate is supposed to be dictated by the Torah.
I am doubly troubled that this misnomer was compounded by a song on Joey Newcomb’s new album called…ahavas chinom. It’s a mistake. Perhaps an honest one, but an error nonetheless. There’s no such thing as ahavas chinom.
The concept of ahavas Yisroel, as outlined in the Torah, refers to the genuine love for fellow Jews, which is a commandment in and of itself. The foundation of this mitzvah is clearly expressed in the words of the Rambam (Hilchos Deos 6:3), where he emphasizes that we are obligated to love our fellow Jews, even if we may not always understand or agree with their actions. It is a love that transcends any personal grievances or differences, rooted in our shared identity as members of the Jewish people.
On the other hand, ahavas chinom is a term that has been incorrectly coined over time, with its literal meaning suggesting a “baseless love.” While the idea of loving others without a specific reason may sound appealing in theory, it does not align with the Torah understanding of how we are meant to relate to each other. The Torah mandates that we love one another for a reason – because we are all connected by the same Divine Source, as members of Klal Yisroel, rather than in some undefined or arbitrary manner.
It is critical for us, as a Torah community, to use the correct terminology when discussing matters of such importance. The term ahavas Yisroel conveys a more purposeful connection that is rooted in our common heritage, and it is imperative that we adopt and uphold this term as a reflection of our true obligations.
The term ahavas chinom is incorrect and should not be used.
May we all strive to embody the love for one another that ahavas Yisroel represents, recognizing the profound responsibility we have to one another as part of the eternal Klal Yisroel.
Sincerely,
A Yid
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The opinions expressed in letters on Matzav.com do not necessarily reflect the stance of the Matzav Media Network.The post Matzav Inbox: The Made-Up Term Called “Ahavas Chinom “ first appeared on Matzav.com.