Beit Hillel is proud to be a partner of the Global Day of Conflict for the Sake of Heaven, today the 9th of Adar. This program is the brainchild of the Pardes Center for Judaism and Conflict Resolution (PCJCR) and represents a global attempt to manage conflicts in a constructive and cooperative spirit .
About 2000 years ago, on the 9th of Adar, a violent and destructive conflict erupted between Beit Hillel and Shammai. Until that day, the conflicts between them were constructive and “for the sake of Heaven” – but on that day, the destructive conflict led to many deaths (3,000 people according to several sources ). It is said of that day that it was as tragic as the day that the golden calf was constructed (Exodus 32:28).
That day was declared a fast day (Shulchan Aruch, Orach Chaim, Laws of Fasting 580), but was not actually marked as such. We seek to restore this day and return it to the Jewish calendar – a day that will be dedicated to the study and the institution of controversy for the sake of Heaven (constructive conflict resolution), as well as other Jewish models of conflict resolution.
Through the perpetuation of the 9th of Adar in this way, we will be turning a tragic day of fasting into a day full of joy, as the Shulchan Aruch concludes the chapters on fasting (including the 9th of Adar): “In the future, Hashem will turn them into [days of] joy and happiness”
Want to participate? In recognition of the 18 points of contention, the PCJCR has formulated a set of 18 ways to commemorate 9 Adar, as a form of rectification for the original conflict. The 18 suggested ways are organized into 3 major areas:
- Commemorate
- Study/Teach
- Practice
The Beit Hillel organization always works in this spirit, and as discussed in recent days, we meet and discuss with those that disagree with us, in order to listen, learn, respect, and create a sincere atmosphere of controversy for the sake Heaven.
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