The Torah tells us “Do not go after the majority to do evil” (Shemot 23:2) What is the meaning of this verse?

It is very natural for a person to try and impress their friends. Sometimes this means that they imitate their behaviour. This is a very natural thing for us, as humans, to do. We want to feel accepted and gain people’s approval. However, when we see people doing something that is wrong and not in line with Torah values, this pasuk is telling us that we shouldn’t go and follow in their footsteps.
 

It’s easy for us to brush off behaviour, particularly when we see that those doing it are also observant, and validate the wrong, “well they’re all doing it, so it can’t be wrong”. We say to ourselves, without a second thought “if he’s eating here I can”, “if she does this, then it must be ok for me”. We try to justify the behaviour, so we can satisfy our own desires. However, the Torah is teaching us a very fundamental principle by telling us not to go after the majority. Each person has a big responsibility! That each of us are very much responsible for our own behaviour. Many may be doing something wrong, but the Torah tells us that we should not go and follow their example.
 

We each have an obligation to be careful of our own actions and our own behaviour. It takes strength and courage to go against the grain but if we stay strong in our love of Hashem and His mitzvot and have appreciation for them, then that is what we need to cleave to. 
 

But also, just as we have a responsibility to not fall into bad ways, we also have such a responsibility to walk Al Kiddush Hashem! We must always be aware that we are made in the image of Hashem. He can help inspire other to do better, make better choices. And with that, we can also help move each other to come closer to the best version of ourselves that we can be. 

Shabbat shalom,