david j. garcia

I recently had the opportunity to attend a Sunday evening fireside with Rabbi John Borak of First Light (a Jewish synagogue) and President Robert Keeler of the Santa Monica Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Part of a groundbreaking, ongoing dialog series, it was titled “‘An eye for an eye…’ – A Mormon and a Jew Examine One of God’s Most Troubling Commandments.”

I found Rabbi Borak’s presentation particularly enlightening, since I have had less experience with his faith (I am LDS). He discussed the “written” and “oral” Torah (which are both written now), then used the oral Torah (I apologize for having quickly forgotten the Hebrew names) to examine the topic commandment.

The argument basically began with the concept that because God is just, he could not possibly be suggesting a literal interpretation, which could result in unforeseen, unjust consequences–such as the removal of an eye in retribution leading to death. The oral law also discussed several other arguments and possible meanings, but the basis of their interpretation–as I understood it–was the accepted idea that God is just. The eventual conclusion is that the law provides for monetary compensation, limiting it to the damage done.

President Keeler then spoke. After pointing out that the Rabbi’s conclusion provided the foundation for much of the Western legal system, he shared an uplifting explanation of the concept of a higher law (“Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an eye … but I say unto you … whosoever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also” – Matt. 5:38-39 [KJV]).

Both men spoke well and respectfully. They disagreed on some points, but they emphasized their shared understanding of truth on many points. Each took questions (including one of my own) from the audience and responded appropriately, regardless of the nature of the questions.

If all religious leaders throughout the world treated each other and their congregations with such openness, honesty, and respect, imagine the misconceptions that could be dispelled, the hostilities that could dissolve, and even the wars that would end. Imagine how much more understanding and love there could be.

Now imagine those gifts in your own life: less misconceptions, less hostility, less conflict, more love and more understanding. Then ask someone you know about their faith. Respectfully share answers about your own. Find common ground.

When you’re done, you’ll be better friends: you’ll understand each other better and each know a little bit more about what drives the the other. Religion shouldn’t be taboo if approached with genuine interest and respect.

If those two good men could each invite the public and their congregations to hear the other, why can’t we also be more open with our own beliefs? Shouldn’t we be interested in understanding one another? Will you be the one to reach out?