Torah Commentary

Advertisement

Leadership Traits

Judah merits the position of kingship because of his ability to acknowledge and overcome his mistakes.

Before The Law: Creating Real Systems Of Justice

Parashat Vayeshev teaches us the importance of ensuring that we enact justice in light of the ease with which our systems of justice can be abused.

Improving Our Speech

The consequences of what we say are extremely far-reaching, demanding that we choose our words carefully.

Being Truly Present To God And People

We can learn from Jacob's encounter with Esau to meet others as we would meet God.

Overcoming Envy

Esau and Jacob are able to reconcile only when each is secure in his achievements.

Why the Angel Asks Jacob His Name

By asking Jacob his name, his wrestling adversary challenges him to examine himself.

Two Kinds Of Intelligence

To be fully educated and human we must study a range of disciplines--humanities and sciences, secular and Judaic.

Interpreting From The Outside

Joseph's status as an outsider, and the outsider status of the Jewish people, allow for critical insight into the deeper truths of the surrounding people.

Living With Threat

Jacob sends Esau the message that despite having lived with Laban, he has kept the commandments and learned to stand up to powerful figures.

When the Brothers Got Violent

The brothers could not speak peacefully with Joseph because they allowed their anger and resentment to control them.

Advertisement