Moshe addresses the tribes of Reuven and Gad, imploring them to fight for their brothers in Israel before settling down across the Jordan (3:18). However, Moshe does not address just the two tribes in question but uses the word “etchem,” which includes all the tribes.
Rabbeinu Bachya points out that although this particular mandate was directed at Reuven and Gad to help the rest of the tribes conquer and settle in Israel, the notion of fighting for your brothers is a more universal concept meant for all people. Birkat Asher extends this logic to ideological or philosophical conflicts, where advocating for another person’s perspective is just as important as fighting for your own. Validating others’ perspectives will bring us closer to each other and advance harmony among all people.
