Torah Commentary
Kindness In Disguise
By judging others favorably and responding to them with kindness, we add holiness to the world.
From Pride Comes Loneliness
Joseph's experience in prison teaches him, and us, that we succeed and flourish when we support those around us.
Controlling Love
Joseph teaches us to temper love with a sense of duty and a knowledge of right and wrong.
The Challenge Of Changing
Despite Jacob's negative experiences with favoritism, he repeats this trait in his own family and home.
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.