Unified in Diversity by Rabbi Mordechai Rhine Parshas Vayishlach begins with a description of how Yakov prepared for battle. The Torah relates that, as Esav approached him, Yakov was truly afraid that a major battle would erupt. Yakov divided the people that were with him into two camps, and said, “If Esav manages to be more »
The Mother of all Coaches by Rabbi Mordechai Rhine The Torah relates how, as Yakov returned to the Land of Israel, “Devorah, the nanny of Rivkah, died,” and she was buried there. This simple verse presents a significant question. What was Devorah, the nanny of Rivkah, doing entering the Land of Israel together with Yakov? more »
Yakov was on the verge of success. He had fulfilled his parents directive to go to the house of Lavan and get married. There he remained righteous despite the challenges, starting the Jewish family, and planning to build the Jewish nation on this strong foundation. But, “Yakov remained alone.” The commentaries explain that as they more »