Although the convert is included in the mitzvah to love all Jews, the Torah, nevertheless, stresses this mitzvah. The Sefer Ha’Chinuch infers that the extra warning adjuring us to love the ger applies in all areas of human relationship. The ger symbolizes the Jew who has no “protection,” no family pedigree, and probably very few friends. It is regrettably much easier to mistreat the ger than an ordinary Jew. Having cut himself off from his roots, he feels isolated in his quest for genuine acceptance and friendship. The Sefer Ha’Chinuch states that this mitzvah is broadened to include all strangers, everyone who is not part of the “in” clique. This applies to a newcomer to the community/shul or to anyone who feels alienated because he is an outsider.
The Torah gives a good reason for this commandment, “Because you were once strangers in the land of Egypt.” We are, therefore, commanded to show love, understanding and compassion to others who suffer from this plight. Every human being is Hashem’s creation. This makes him an “insider” in the world community. To mistreat someone is tantamount to disgracing Hashem.
The Maharal goes so far as to say that loving people is in effect the same as loving Hashem. When one loves another person, he loves all of his friends’ handiwork. Similarly, one who truly loves Hashem loves all of His children. Tolerance of others should be something real to us. After all, we were once “different,” living as strangers and outcasts in a strange and antagonistic environment. One would think that our past has sensitized us to be more accepting of those who are not exactly like us.
