Parshat Hashavua

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.

Isaac's birth, the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, the exile of Hagar and the ultimate sacrifice.

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.

The Joseph story provides us with a domestic model for our national ability to move through reconciliation to solidarity.

On his deathbed, Jacob blesses his sons and asks them to bury him in Canaan.

By personally handing out rations, Joseph established a human connection and involvement with those for whom he provided.

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

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.