But Judaism does have more potent ideas for changing the world–of rejecting all forms of idolatry, of forgiving people's debts and setting free the prisoners in the year of jovel, of welcoming in the foreigners, of loving one's neighbor, of practicing a Shabbat in a world that idolizes work…

Jews COULD have an identity based on self-preservation, welcoming the "us" while opposing all that is "them". But that sets them up for exclusion- a dangerous place to be, as we've seen. OR, they could adopt a richer, more biblical model of being a blessing to the world, of forgiving debts, of loving neighbors, of rejecting excessive militarism. This, I think, would be a heartier form of tikkun olam than we currently see, and would also promote a more positive form of identity.

The world has seen some good come from Israel, but it's often overshadowed by violence. Maybe the answer isn't retreat, but a new advancement into more radical ways of doing good.

But Judaism does have more potent ideas for changing the world–of rejecting all forms of idolatry, of forgiving people's debts and setting free the prisoners in the year of jovel, of welcoming in the foreigners, of loving one's neighbor, of practicing a Shabbat in a world that idolizes work…

Jews COULD have an identity based on self-preservation, welcoming the "us" while opposing all that is "them". But that sets them up for exclusion- a dangerous place to be, as we've seen. OR, they could adopt a richer, more biblical model of being a blessing to the world, of forgiving debts, of loving neighbors, of rejecting excessive militarism. This, I think, would be a heartier form of tikkun olam than we currently see, and would also promote a more positive form of identity.

The world has seen some good come from Israel, but it's often overshadowed by violence. Maybe the answer isn't retreat, but a new advancement into more radical ways of doing good.

I agree with you that love for our own should come first and foremost. But, I believe that the calling for tikkun olam can be seen in tandem with other Jewish values to create a stronger sense of identity. I'll give you an example of how this kind of Jewish identity is not simply outwardly-directed. I was speaking with my dad and he gave me an interesting take on how this operation can reflect Jewish values. The very title of the operation, "Amud Anan", is taken from the Bible, and is developed as an idea in the Talmud (masechet Sotah) and elaborated on by our commentators. This is an example of a concept that is rooted in Jewish sources. The Talmud mentions that the cloud destroyed the dangers facing the Jewish people highlighting the fundamental human value of self-preservation. Although the cloud also represents God's descent and was meant to lead them in an upright way or 'הדרך מיושר'. So we don't necessarily have competing values, rather they are complementary. Perhaps the cloud imagery indicates that there is never a clear solution, or path towards the future. One can only hope that the cloud is imbued with the divine and used properly.