Parashat Vayechi

Joseph reminds us that our perspective of reality is limited compared to the ultimate meaning that God perceives.

The descent into Egypt and Jacob's death left his family in an alien culture, forced to find a context for their traditions within themselves.

Jacob's decision to bless each of his sons individually highlights the need to balance unity with diversity.

Jacob blessed his sons, not only according to each of their characters, but also with a unique piece of himself.

Living after the Civil Rights Movement, we, like the children of Jacob, have the opportunity to carry the ideals of previous generations into the future.

Both Jacob and Joseph understood the importance of imbuing their descendants with a commitment to the Land of Israel.