Rashi points out that the Yishmaelim who carried Yosef down to Mitzraim uncharacteristically were transporting sweet smiling spices when usually they carried wears that smelled foul. Rav Chaim Shmuelevitz points out that this was a major nes from Hashem, who rearranged the world economy and trade just for Yosef not to be bothered from the [...]
When Eisav finally arrives before Yaakov after being told that he is coming with 400 soldiers and prepared for war, Eisav becomes emotional and embraces Yaakov. He then asks Yaakov who all these “messengers” that he sent were and what was their purpose. Yaakov answered so he (Yaakov) “would find favor in Eisavs eyes”. Rashi [...]
I often hear teens complaining about Avodas Hashem, Mitzvos, and particularly davening, how when they do these things they don’t “feel anything” or ”feel any connection” or “don’t feel like God is really there listening/talking”. While learning the parsha this week, the following thought came to me: Yaakov Avinu is brought by Hashem to the [...]
Why would someone sell his birthright, which was worth an incalculable amount both spiritually and monetarily, for a bowl of stew? Esav gladly did so and then justified it because he was one day going to pass away. Sadly, this is the similar rationale we use ourselves when we want to engage in any unhealthy [...]
The Midrash this week tells of a maaseh where a certain type of bird had been spotted but no one could recognize its species and therefore could not tell if it was kosher or not. The Midrash advises to watch when it is resting, what other species of birds land near it to rest as [...]