Judaism

“A Personality Profile of Joseph"
(updated and revised from Vayeishev 5764-2003)

The personality of Joseph is complex and fascinating. Much of Joseph’s future life is determined by his early childhood experiences, especially the death of his mother and the fact that he was favored by his father. How Joseph deals with these elements of his life, constitutes one of the most fascinating stories in human literature.

“Who Was Esau?”
(updated and revised from Vayishlach 5764-2003)

It's hard to imagine why there is an entire chapter of the Torah dedicated to the genealogy of the descendants of Esau, Jacob's wicked brother. Yet, a remarkable lesson may be learned from this seemingly out-of-place chapter. Through the distinctive nuances that are found in the text, the legacy of Esau and his family is better understood, their way of life elucidated, and as a result, the worthiness of the nation of Jacob, who emerge as the people of Israel, is validated.

“In Praise of Humility”
(updated and revised from Vayeitzei 5764-2003)

Perhaps, the greatness of our forefather Jacob, lies in the fact that he recognized the need to "nullify" himself before G-d in order to come ever closer to Him. Humility, recognizing who one really is in relation to G-d, and removing one's ego from the picture, is a trait that is to be aspired to in every generation by Jewish leaders and laymen alike.

“The Theological Underpinnings of Antisemitism”
(updated and revised from Toledot 5764-2003)

In one of the first recorded acts of antisemitism, the Philistines blocked up the wells that had been dug by Abraham's servants. The juxtaposition of this act with the description of the economic success that was enjoyed by Abraham's son has led many to believe that the motivation for the evil acts perpetrated against him was economic envy. Is that truly the primary cause of this and other hateful acts perpetuated against Jews? Perhaps not.

“Who was the Matriarch Sarah?”
(updated and revised from Chayei Sarah 5764-2003)

The death of Sarah, one of the physical and metaphysical progenitors of the Jewish people, is recounted in this week's parasha. In a few short lines of this week's parasha, an abundance of information is revealed about who Sarah was. Her life, though not easy, was full. And when she departed from the mortal world, she left an invaluable spiritual legacy for posterity.