Vayeira
Dear Friend,
The theme of the week seems to be parental sacrifice.
We read in the Torah how G‑d tested Abraham by asking him to sacrifice his beloved son Isaac. Abraham, the paradigm of kindness, set aside his feelings and passed with flying colors—so much so, that Jews continuously evoke this incident when beseeching G‑d for mercy.
And yet, a mother’s anguished cries are even greater.
This week, on 11 Cheshvan, we celebrate the passing of our matriarch Rachel.
The Midrash relates that G‑d decreed that Rachel be buried alone by the roadside, rather than in the Cave of Machpelah. In future generations, when the Jews would be driven into exile along this highway, her soul would weep before G‑d and arouse His mercy.
Now, the Midrash relates that all our patriarchs and matriarchs beg G‑d in heaven to forgive his children. Yet the prophet Jeremiah tells us that it is only after “a voice is heard on high, lamentation, bitter weeping, Rachel weeping for her children . . .” that G‑d finally says, “There is hope for your future . . . the children shall return to their own border.”
May the purpose of her tears be realized. Amen.
Rabbi Yehuda Shurpin,
on behalf of the Chabad.org Editorial Team
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