premature death

“The Tragic Death of Mother Rachel”

While the Torah does not provide a single reason for the Matriarch Rachel passing away at the young age of 36, the commentators suggest a host of answers for her tragic premature demise.

“The Unending Mourning"

From the deaths of Nadav and Abihu we learn that mourning for certain losses are truly never-ending.

“The Passing of the Last of the Patriarchs”

According to tradition, Jacob was the first man to die of disease. The world is still unresolved regarding the benefits of a sudden death as opposed to a long terminal illness.

“She Called His Name ‘Ben Oni’”

As Rachel’s life ebbs from her during the birth of her second son, she calls the child “Ben Oni.” Jacob rejects the name, and calls the child “Binyamin.” What is the difference in the meanings of the names?