by Shira Schechter (Moderator) | f 15, 2021 | Vayishlach
While she was pregnant, Rebecca complained of pain. God reassured her that the twins she was carrying would both establish great nations (Genesis 25:23). The Bible follows the story of Jacob as his family grows into the nation of Israel. While less focus is afforded...
by Shira Schechter (Moderator) | f 14, 2021 | Redemption, Vayishlach
After Abraham purchased the field of Ephron the Hittite in Hebron, and after Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, and Rivkah in the Machpelah Cave, it was expected that Jacob and his wives would also be buried at the site. So it was surprising that when Rachel passed away while...
by Shira Schechter (Moderator) | f 13, 2016 | Antisemitism, Holocaust Remembrance Day, Humility, Israel, Obadiah, Vayishlach
As the situation for European Jewry began to deteriorate, the Chofetz Chaim was asked in 1933 about the fate of the Jewish people. As recorded by one of his close disciples, the revered rabbi answered, “Hitler shall fail! No one has ever succeeded in destroying our...
by Rabbi Tuly Weisz | f 27, 2015 | Justice, Vayishlach
Jacob is torn between two values – the desire to live in peace and be accepted by the local inhabitants, and the desire to defend the honor of his daughter and of his family. This week’s portion tells of Jacob’s return to the Land of Canaan, beginning with his...
