Angel injuring Jacob’s Thigh– When the angel fought against Jacob, why specifically did he injure him in his thigh? Is there a special significance to it?More »
Jacob Buys the Birthright for Soup– I’m studying the story of Jacob and Esau and I am so bothered by the simple storyline. Imagine the scenario. Two brothers, one is sitting at home studying and the other returns from an exhausting day at work. He asks…More »
Jacob - Disciplining With Love– I have three kids and when they misbehave I want to discipline them. But sometimes I feel like that would be harming their self-esteem. What does the Torah say about disciplining with love?More »
Jacob, Esau & the Purpose of Life– I seem to have two voices pulling at me: One that says, “Be responsible; think long-term,” and the other that says, “Live it up now.” Each voice seems to have a good argument. What do you say?More »
Jacob Steals the Blessings– I have a coworker who can’t accept how Jacob could have stolen Esau’s blessings from his father Isaac. How could he have been so dishonest as to trick his father? And further, since the blessings were given under false premises,…More »
Jacob’s Embalmment– How was Joseph allowed to embalm his father Jacob? Is that permitted according to Jewish law?More »
Jacob’s Incomplete Name Change– I noticed something very curious. Abraham’s name was changed from Abram to Abraham (Genesis 17:5) and that’s how he became permanently known. Likewise Sarai became Sarah (17:15). But God changed Jacob’s name to Israel (Gen. 35:10) – and even so…More »
Jacob’s Possessions and Having it All– When Jacob first meets Esau after having spent years in Haran, he gives him a large gift of animals. At first Esau refuses the gift, but then Jacob convinces him to take it. I know there is a nice lesson…More »
Rachel’s Tomb (Kever Rochel) Today– The Torah states that Jacob put up a monument on Rachel’s grave which stands till today (Genesis 35:20). Does that refer to the domed building which has always stood over her grave?More »
Why Isaac Favored Esau– If Esau was really so wicked, why did Isaac favor him over Jacob, wanting to give him the blessings? The only reason the Torah gives for Isaac’s preference is because Esau provided him with the meat from his hunts (Genesis…More »
Seven Reasons for Hope on October 8
