by Admin | Dec 6, 2016 | The Portion of Vayeitzei
In his influential book “The Jewish State”, Theodore Herzl made the case for designing a proper symbol: “We have no flag, and we need one” he wrote. “If we desire to lead many men, we must raise a symbol above their heads. I would suggest a white flag, with seven...
by Tuly Weisz | Nov 21, 2015 | The Portion of Vayeitzei
Jacob has been promised by God that his children will inherit the Land of Israel. Indeed, he is the first forefather to pass on this promise and blessing to all of his children. This week’s portion tells of Jacob’s flight from Beersheba, escaping just in time from...
by Tuly Weisz | Nov 20, 2015 | The Portion of Vayeitzei
The sun is setting, and Jacob rests his head after a harrowing day. He is fleeing from his brother Esau. In an open field, Jacob gathers stones and makes a pillow of sorts so he can sleep before moving on in the morning. Amazingly, the Midrash describes a “fight” that...
by Ahuva Balofsky (Moderator) | Nov 15, 2015 | The Portion of Vayeitzei
After receiving his parents’ blessings to go seek a wife among his mother’s relatives, Jacob leaves his home in Beersheba and heads in the direction of Haran. Along the way, he stops to rest, dreaming that night of a tall ladder reaching up to the heavens. In his...
by Ahuva Balofsky (Moderator) | Nov 15, 2015 | The Portion of Vayeitzei
As Jacob’s wealth increases, Laban’s sons become jealous of their cousin. Jacob realizes the climate is turning against him and tells his wives it is time to leave, with or without Laban’s permission. Through his conversation with them, we learn that Laban has changed...
by Ahuva Balofsky (Moderator) | Nov 15, 2015 | The Portion of Vayeitzei
God is acutely aware of Jacob’s preference for Rachel over Leah, and thus grants Leah children first. With the birth and naming of each child, Leah’s hope for her husband’s affection is evident. Reuben, meaning “See — a son!”, Simeon, meaning “God has heard”,...
