Rabbi Judah ben Bezalel Lowe, known as the Maharal of Prague was famous among Jews and non-Jews alike. He was a mystic who was revered for his holiness and Torah scholarship, as well as his proficiency in mathematics, astronomy, and other sciences. Eventually, word of his greatness reached the ears of Emperor Rudolph II.
The Emperor invited the Maharal to his castle on February 23, 1592. There they conversed for one and a half hours, and developed a mutual respect for each other.
Rabbi Judah Lowe made use of his excellent connections with the Emperor, often intervening on behalf of his community when it was threatened by anti-Semitic attacks or oppression.
Once the promised land was settled, every household brought a sample of their first fruits to the Temple every year and thanked G‑d for the land.
But not until all Jews were safe and settled, each on their own plot of land.
Because that is the way the Jewish nation operates: Like brothers and sisters.
Not one of us can feel thoroughly grateful for their own welfare until everyone else is taken care of.
