| "Take revenge for the Children of Israel against the Midianites" (Bamidbar 31). Moab and Midian conspired against Israel and caused a great tragedy to Klal Yisrael. If so, why did Hashem instruct Moshe to take revenge only from the Midianites, and not the Moabites? The Moabites were in line of Israel's advance, therefore they attacked Israel as an act of self-defense. Whereas, Midian was not on the path of Israel's approach. They only entered the conflict out of their hatred for Israel. Since they had no real reason to attack Israel, Midian, alone is held culpable for the damage caused to Israel.
Never take sides in an argument which has no relevance to you. One who takes sides in a dispute risks being the fall-guy, even if the two adversaries make peace.
Two of your neighbors have a property dispute. You feel that one of them is in the right. No matter how much you want to get involved, or say your opinion, or help your neighbor -- stay out of their fight! Try to make peace but never take sides. By staying out of their argument you save your friendships, keep your peace of mind, and stay out of trouble. (Based on the commentary of Rashi as explained in Lech Tov)
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