Equity vs Equality

“Love your neighbor as you do your self” [Leviticus 19:18]

Some people espouse an unrealistic concept of equality. The simple fact is that people are not all equitably endowed, and hence there are people whom we value above others for a variety of reasons. Yet, (as stated by) Rabbi Yaakov Yitzchok of Pshis’cha, such distinctions do not permit us to slight someone we consider to be of lesser stature (of lesser equality). Although our hearts and eyes have a far greater value than our toes and fingers, we are nevertheless very protective of the latter. To love your neighbor as your self means to accord the least of men (equity) the same respect (equality) that you do to the least of your self. — Rabbi Twerski