Divrei Menachem

Divrei Menachem - Parashat Vaychi

Parshat Vaychi introduces us to the blessings that Ya’akov bestowed upon his sons. We surely understand that these sentiments harbored more than a passing thought. In a sense they foretold something of a timeless nature that would, hopefully, serve future generations in good stead.

Perhaps the opening blessing to Reuven is most instructive in this respect: “Reuven, you are my first- born, my strength and my initial vigor, foremost in rank (Heb. S’EIT) and foremost in power [OZ]. [However,] water-like impetuosity - you cannot be foremost, because you mounted your father’s bed; then you desecrated Him who ascended my couch” (B’reishit 49:3-4).

Who would not want to receive the accolades bestowed upon Reuven in those initial, opening words? After all, Reuven was entitled to the compliment and had been slated to accept the privileges of priesthood [S’EIT) and of power and kingship [OZ]. But Reuven forfeited these prizes, respectively to the tribes of Levi and Yehuda, because of his rashness in trying to prevent Ya’akov from having children with his concubine, Bilha (ibid 35:22).

Reuven meant well and wanted to protect his mother’s honor - but he paid a price! O that our leaders would take heart concerning their well- meaning actions in our times!

Shabbat Shalom, Menachem Persoff

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