This [is] a brief overview among various sources that highlight the importance of every responsible Jewish person exercising their Second Amendment right. It serves as a reminder that predators target the defenseless, and if the majority of Jews are armed, potential attackers may think twice before initiating an assault.
In today’s climate, people are grappling with uncertainty about how to respond to the increasing incidents of anti-Semitism worldwide. The dilemma arises: should we flee or stay and confront the challenges? Even if the option to run is considered, recent events demonstrate that no corner of the world seems entirely safe for us. Another quandary facing the Jewish community is whether to apply for a gun permit. Raised and educated to respect and love others, and not to inflict harm in any way, the notion of wielding arms for potential self-defense goes against these values, presenting a moral conundrum for many.
In this article, we will explore the Torah’s perspective on navigating the challenges posed by contemporary dangers and assess whether seeking a gun permit is aligned with its recommendations.
Let’s begin with the core principle that Jewish people typically avoid targeting others unless it is necessary for establishing deterrence in self-defense. In contrast to nations that have historically targeted Jews based on religious persecution, jealousy, or animosity, Jews, as a generalization, do not harbor an inherent desire to inflict harm on others. Instead, the primary objective is to coexist peacefully, guided by the principle of “live and let live.” Therefore our emphasis in this article is specifically on the aspect of self-defense.
By Rabbi Shay Tahan
