(2006/5766)

The Gemara says in Masechet Berachot (6b) that the reward for one who rejoices with the Chatan at a wedding is “very great.” The Gemara also compares this act of rejoicing to rebuilding a destroyed home in Jerusalem.  This comparison is odd- what is the connection between rejoicing with the Chatan and rebuilding a destructed home in Jerusalem?

The Germara in Yoma (9b) states that the Beit HaMikdash was destroyed because of Sin’at Chinam, baseless hatred.   This Gemara implies that the Beit HaMikdash will be rebuilt on the premise of Ahavat Chinam, baseless love. 

When one rejoices with the Chatan, one is demonstrating Ahavat Chinam, and therefore is compared to one who built up part of Jerusalem.   His kind actions counteracted the cause of the destruction of the Beit HaMikdash. 

However, one can still ask why the Gemara only uses the example of the Chatan.  Why not say any act of kindness will help rebuilt Jerusalem? An answer could be that when Chazal chose the example of the Chatan, they were not saying that only rejoicing with the Chatan helps rebuilt Jerusalem.   They were merely presenting one example of the good deeds that can be done that show love between fellow Jews that will help expedite the rebuilding of Jerusalem and the Beit HaMikdash. 

This past Tuesday was Lag BaOmer, the day the students of the great Rabi Akiva stopped dying.  As we all know, the students died because they did not give the proper respect to each other.  We must learn from the mistakes of Rabi Akiva’s students and treat our fellows Jews with the respect they deserve.  This will hopefully bring us one step closer to rebuilding Jerusalem and the Beit HaMikdash.