Every individual included in the Torah is intended to teach us a lesson. Investigate and delve into all the Biblical characters, especially those less well known.

There is much to glean from the story of Hagar and her son Ishmael and how the actions of their progeny impact upon the Jewish people to this very day. While both the name Yisrael, the Hebrew name of the Jewish people, and the Hebrew spelling of Ishmael include the name of God, there is, according to the Midrash, a hidden message within the meaning of the Hebrew name Ishmael that suggests how the fervor and commitment of Jewish prayer will impact directly upon the destiny of the Jewish people.

To appreciate the potential impact of our prayers, read this enlightening analysis entitled, “Understanding Ishmael” from Rabbi Ephraim Z. Buchwald’s Torah message for Lech Lecha 5782-2021. Out of respect for the Shabbat, please consider printing it on Friday afternoon if you plan to read it on Shabbat.