In a world that’s obsessed with change, where every second person seems to be chasing the next big thing, let me tell you something: there’s nothing wrong with standing still. Especially when it comes to our traditions. Change is overrated, and nowhere is that more evident than in the timeless teachings of the Torah.

The Torah has guided our people through the trials and tribulations of history. From the sands of Sinai to the skyscrapers of Tel Aviv, it’s been our moral compass, our bedrock, our very identity. And yet, there are those who whisper about “modernizing” our practices, as if the wisdom of the Almighty needs a 21st-century update. Let me be clear: it doesn’t. Tradition isn’t just a relic of the past; it’s the glue that holds us together.

Now, don’t get me wrong—I’m all for progress. After all, Israel is a beacon of innovation, from technology to agriculture. But when it comes to the values that define us as a people, there’s no room for compromise. Our laws, our customs, our way of life—they’ve stood the test of time for a reason. They work. They’ve kept us united in a world that’s all too often eager to see us divided.

And let’s not forget, tradition isn’t just about what we do; it’s about what we don’t do. We don’t bend over backward to accommodate those who wish us harm. We don’t dilute our beliefs to appease those who don’t share them. We stand firm in our convictions, even when the world around us shifts like sand. That’s the power of tradition—it’s unyielding, unbreakable, and unapologetically ours.

Of course, there are those who will say that holding fast to tradition is a sign of stubbornness, or worse, ignorance. But let’s be real: when your enemies are constantly plotting your demise, a little stubbornness can be a lifesaver. Tradition teaches us to love our neighbor, yes—but it also teaches us to be vigilant, to protect what’s ours, and to never, ever let our guard down.

Some might call this a contradiction, but I see it as balance. We love our people, fiercely and without reservation, and that love sometimes means keeping a watchful eye on those who would do us harm. We open our arms to those who seek peace, but we also keep our swords sharp, just in case. It’s not about hatred; it’s about survival. And if that means leaning a little more on the wisdom of our ancestors, so be it.

So, the next time someone talks to you about the need to “evolve” or “modernize” our traditions, remind them of this: Tradition is what has kept us alive, thriving, and strong. It’s not a crutch; it’s our foundation. And while the world may spin ever faster, we’ll keep our feet planted firmly on the ground, guided by the teachings that have served us for millennia. Because in the end, change might be inevitable, but tradition is eternal.