Torah Commentary

Joy and laughter, often embodied in children, can help us begin to live again after extreme disappointment and tragedy.

Like Jacob, who paid attention to Joseph's dreams, we should be mindful of events and experiences that evoke a sense of the Divine presence.

Like Jacob's struggle, each of us must recognize, confront and struggle with our darker side.

Adam's naming of the animals raises complex issues, including the deeper meanings of our names.

Jacob flees to his uncle Laban's household and lives there for several years, marrying Laban's daughters, Leah and Rachel, and building a large family.

Following the death of Sara, Abraham purchases a burial plot and sends his servant to find a wife for Isaac.

Joseph interprets Pharaoh's dreams and is appointed to implement Egypt's anti-famine plan, which brings him into contact with his brothers again.

We should strive to emulate Abraham and Isaac rather than emulating Laban, who compartmentalized his values.

Joseph's warning to his brothers not to quarrel on their way instructs us as well in our relationships with our families and the larger Jewish community.