GEN127 It is a mitzvah for every Jew to love every fellow Jew as he loves himself, as the Torah states [Leviticus 19:18], You shall love your fellow as yourself.  Rambam, Hilchos Dei’os 6:3  Rabbi Akiva taught that this is the principle upon which the mitzvos of the Torah are based. Ben Azzai elaborated, quoting the verse regarding the creation of man [this verse], in the likeness of Hashem he was created. Thus, when we view another person we are viewing the likeness of the Creator. The Jewish people, who committed themselves to enter a permanent covenant with Hashem to follow His ways, are considered children of Hashem.  This is how we must perceive every other Jew. Furthermore, since we all have one “Father,” we are all “related,” which breeds natural closeness and feelings of affinity. Toras Kohamim, Parshas Kedoshim 4:12; Raavad, Rabbeinu Hillel (cf. Rashi, Shabbas 31a, s.v. de’aluch). See also Avos D’Rabbi Nosson 16:5, Devarim 14:1. EHRMAN 3