This piece by Rabbi Kenigsberg was first published in Hanassi Highlights, 23 October 2025 (parashat Noach)
The short story of the Tower of Bavel is among the most
mysterious episodes in the opening chapters of the Torah. Our understanding of
it is often shaped by Midrashic imagery we recall from childhood - a tower attempting
to reach the heavens, divine anger, and the scattering of humanity. But when we
look closely at the pesukim themselves, the story seems far less
straightforward.
Humanity comes together, united in language and purpose, to
build a city and a tower. Yet, God intervenes, confounding their speech and
dispersing them across the earth. What exactly was their sin? Why was such
collaboration deserving of punishment?
Rav Hirsch distinguishes between “one language” -- a shared
means of communication -- and “singular words,” meaning a common understanding
of ideas. The Netziv writes further that although such unity is ostensibly a
positive factor, in fact the opposite is true. “Singular words” implies that
their unity had become so absolute, to the extent that it allowed for no
individuality, no dissent, and no freedom of expression. He writes:
“It was not because of the substance of their deeds that God
was aroused, but rather because they were entirely of one mind... Although such
unity may appear positive... nonetheless in this case it became dangerous for
civilization.” (Ha’amek Davar, Bereishit 11:1)
In other words, the problem was not cooperation, but
conformity. A society that demands everyone think and speak alike sadly leaves
no room for creativity, for conscience, or for truth.
This warning feels strikingly relevant in our own times. We
live in an age when on so many issues there is often only one “acceptable”
voice. Disagreement is too easily dismissed, and honest debate too quickly
silenced.
During the Yamim Noraim we prayed “Uv’chen ten… u’fitchon
peh lameyachalim lach” - “Place... the confidence to speak[1]
into all who long for You.” (Koren Translation). We ask Hashem to give voice to the silenced
and to help each of us speak with conviction, integrity, and faith. As we
continue to strive, pray for and work towards achdut among Am Yisrael,
let us remember that unity does not mean uniformity. True unity is not when we
all think the same, but when we stand together -- different yet devoted, diverse
yet united, and bound by a shared purpose and destiny.
Shabbat Shalom!
[1] Literally: An opening of the mouth.
