We are commanded to love every Jew as we love ourselves.
This mitzvah is called by Rabbi Akiva “a great principle of the Torah” (Sifra, Kedoshim §4). It requires not only refraining from hatred or harm, but actively seeking the good of others, treating their needs as one’s own. Rambam (Hilchot De’ot 6:3) codifies that one must praise others, protect their property, and show concern for their honor exactly as one would for oneself. Sefer HaChinuch (Mitzvah 243) explains that love for fellow Jews fosters unity, peace, and Divine blessing upon the nation.
The Talmud (Shabbat 31a) teaches that Hillel summed up the entire Torah with this principle: “What is hateful to you, do not do to your fellow.” Rashi (Lev. 19:18) comments that loving your fellow “as yourself” is literal — one must seek for them what one seeks for oneself. Ramban adds that while complete equivalence of love is difficult, the Torah commands striving toward it, rooting out jealousy and ill will. Midrash Tanchuma (Nitzavim §1) stresses that Israel stands before Hashem as one body; love between Jews is therefore love of the Divine image within each person.
Commentary & Classical Explanation:
Contrast with Loving Converts (Mitzvah 14):
Parallel to Rebuke (Mitzvah 16):
Foundation of Torah Life
Everyday Acts of Care
Beyond Tribal Boundaries
Mutual Responsibility
Healing Division
Kiddush Hashem Through Love
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Reflects mitzvot rooted in love—of G‑d, others, and the world we are entrusted to uplift.
Acts of generous giving that extend beyond obligation — offering help, support, or goodness simply because another person exists. Chesed is proactive, abundant care that heals the world through open-hearted action.
Empathy in motion — responding to another’s pain with sensitivity, patience, and understanding. Whereas chesed gives broadly, rachamim responds gently, tailoring care to a person’s emotional or spiritual needs.
Mitzvot that uphold fairness, honesty, and moral responsibility. Justice is kindness structured — ensuring that society reflects G-d’s order through truth, equity, and accountability.
Practices that cultivate inner modesty and self-awareness. These mitzvot teach us to step back from ego, create space for others, and recognize our place before G-d.
Mitzvot that strengthen communal life — showing up, participating, supporting, and belonging. Community is where holiness is shared, prayers are multiplied, and responsibility becomes collective.
Mitzvot that govern ethical behavior, kindness, justice, and responsibility in human relationships. These actions build trust, dignity, and peace between people.
Mitzvot that define and deepen the relationship between a person and their Creator. These include commandments involving belief, prayer, Shabbat, festivals, sacrifices, and personal holiness — expressions of devotion rooted in divine connection.
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