Weekly Torah Commentary

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's actions in dealing with the famine challenge us to strive for a delicate balance of power and compassion.

God's presence at Jacob's deathbed teaches us that our reactions to the situations in which we find ourselves determine our spiritual perceptions.

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

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

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

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.