The word nitzavim – that gives its name to the first of this week’s double-sidrah – means to stand firm and tall. It is connected to the word n’tziv, a pillar or support, as used to describe the pillar of salt which Lot’s wife turns into in Genesis chapter 19.

Just as you cannot translate a sentence word by word without phrases or context, when analysing Torah verses we have to look at phrases together and in context.

“Atem nitzavim…. kulchem” appears together in the same sentence. In other words, “you are standing firm” by virtue of your standing “together”. Cause and effect.

What is it that causes you to stand firm and tall, to be a pillar of support and of solidarity? Your togetherness, your unity. Without that, you will not have that strength.

The past year has seen huge challenges in the wake of the horrific events that took place from October 7, 2023, both in Israel and in the diaspora. The one theme that has emerged consistently, is that of unity in the face of adversity, particularly in Israeli society, where many of the divisions that plagued the country pre-October 7 were replaced with a coming together, a unity and common purpose.

Sappir Cohen, who was held hostage for 55 days, related that her captors showed her a video of thousands of people in Tel Aviv rallying together for the hostages and told her that when the Jews are united, they’re strong, but that they would wait patiently, and soon there would be chaos among them.

Even our sworn enemies recognise the power of Jewish unity and brotherhood.

One of the most popular songs has been Acheinu – which starts off with “Our brothers and sisters, all of Israel” and then asks God to release all of those who are held in capitivity and distress. The brotherhood/sisterhood is the key to redemption here.

Unity is not easy. Often there are differences. The use of the word brotherhood to describe kinship and fellowship is no accident. Not all brothers agree on everything, but they love each other and look out for each other nonetheless. After all, there is much more that unites us than divides us.

As we head for the new Jewish year of 5785, let us hope and pray for a much better year this year for the people of Israel and the entire nation, and that the precious unity and strength which has been so apparent this past year should only continue to grow.