Vayeitzei
Sometimes tricks are really treats. And sometimes treats are really tricks.
Running from his brother, Jacob stops to rest along the way. Jacob lies down upon a mount and dreams of a ladder bridging heaven and earth, upon which angels descend and ascend in a celestial ballet. The Creator appears and promises Jacob that the land upon which he lies will be the land of his descendents. Jacob pledges in return to turn this place into a home for the Divine. Jacob arrives in Laban’s house, where he falls in love with Rachel. Jacob works for seven years to win her hand. Under the wedding canopy, Laban switches Rachel for her older sister Leah. Jacob works another seven years to marry Rachel as well. Eleven of the twelve tribes are born.
Vayeitzei: Balance
The Torah chapters from the beginning of Genesis outline the story of our life’s mission and from here we can learn much about ourselves…
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Forbidden Piety
Ultimately, we must recognize and utilize the fact that the Torah is the only source of life and well-being for the Jew, both spiritually and physically.
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My Encounter With The Rebbe
“When the Creator of the world gives us a gift, we must treasure it and defend it, and not look for ways to rid ourselves of it!” – The Rebbe
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Jacob’s Oath
An integral part of G-d’s dwelling is a human self for whom “G-d is my G-d”—for whom a life in the service of the Almighty is deeply satisfying.
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Oil and Rock
Oil represents a person’s self-abnegation and submission to G-d. Only one who has totally abnegated his own will to that of G-d is capable of true sacrifice.
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The Prisoner
An old chassidic story that exemplifies the awe chassidim have for their Rebbe.
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The Bottom Line
Discover how the unity of G-d can infiltrate even the most mundane of activities.
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Vayeitzei: Overcoming Fear
Overcoming fear: To face the battles of life you must first fortify your inner life. You must build a strong inner core – a home and family that provides you with the security and confidence to handle any force or enemy from without.
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