26 Elul 5785/September 19, 2025

On Fridays, we post two Elul Thoughts, out of respect for those of us who choose not to be online on Shabbat. We wish you a blessed and restful Shabbat and hope you continue finding inspiration in our Elul Thoughts.

Rabbi Eric Linder

2 Jews, 3 opinions.

This popular quip amongst Jews reflects our argumentative nature. Whether it’s the right way to light Chanukah candles, the best texture for Matzah Balls, or matters of Jewish halachah, debating and argument is a fundamental part of Jewish identity.

We often say this sentence in a self-deprecating way. But during this period of Elul, I want to suggest that the best way to argue is so that when there are two Jews, there are three opinions.

When we have an argument for the sake of God’s name, for the purpose of learning, we do indeed have three opinions:

1 – The opinion you have.

2 – The opinion that I have.

3 – The opinion that we have after listening to and learning from one another.

Yes indeed, 2 Jews, 3 opinions.