Parashat Vayishlach: Finding Light in the Darkness – Lessons on Galut, Gratitude, and Hidden Sparks

This week, as we read Parashat Vayishlach, my heart is full of deep gratitude to Hashem. We were zocheh to a beautiful simcha in our family—the bris of our grandson, entering the eternal covenant of Avraham Avinu. In moments like these, I feel the truth of Yaakov Avinu’s words echo in my soul: “Katonti Mikol HaChassadim”—“I am unworthy of all the kindnesses.”

Hashem guides us with siyata dishmaya at every step, even in the quiet moments when we don't yet see His hand. May we never take His chessed for granted. To everyone who shared in our joy—your tefillot, warm wishes, and heartfelt brachot—may we continue to celebrate simchas together in good health and happiness.

Understanding True Galut: Insights from Parashat Vayishlach

Why do Chazal refer to Parashat Vayishlach as the parasha of galut, when Yaakov is returning home to Eretz Canaan? The answer reveals a deeper truth: galut (exile) is not just physical—it’s emotional, spiritual, and internal.

Even in the Holy Land, Yaakov feared Eisav. His inner turmoil mirrors the exile we sometimes feel even when surrounded by holiness—moments of doubt, fear, and uncertainty.

This is why there is a minhag to read Parashat Vayishlach before traveling abroad. It represents a journey not only outward but inward—a path through fear toward deeper emunah.

Doron, Tefillah, Milchama: Yaakov’s Spiritual Strategy

The Ramban teaches us that Yaakov prepared for Eisav with a three-pronged approach:

• Doron (gifts): A gesture of peace and goodwill.

• Tefillah (prayer): A heartfelt plea for Divine assistance.

• Milchama (war): A readiness to protect and defend.

This isn’t just historical; it’s deeply personal. When we face fear—be it a health concern, a family challenge, or the uncertainty of world events—we must do our hishtadlut, turn to Hashem in tefillah, and trust that He will carry us through. Without tefillah, even the best strategies falter.

Struggling in the Darkness: Yaakov's Battle and Our Generation

In the depths of night, Yaakov wrestled with an angel. The Torah tells us: “Vayei’avek ish imo”—he struggled with a man. But Chazal explain this was a spiritual battle—one that mirrors the struggles we each face.

That fight—kicking up avak (dust)—reached the Kisei HaKavod. Our own internal struggles for truth, modesty, kedusha, and emunah in a world of confusion also rise up before Hashem.

Even when wounded—“Vatika Kaf Yeracho”—Yaakov did not give up. This wound, representing future generations, reminds us: no matter how far one feels, the battle is holy. Fight until dawn. The light will come.

Hanukkah Begins Here: The Hidden Miracle of the Kad Shemen

One of the most beautiful moments in this parasha is Yaakov’s return for the pachim ketanim, the small vessels he left behind. Chazal tell us that among them was the miraculous jug of oil—the very one tied to the Hanukkah miracle.

This small jug—overlooked, humble—became the symbol of Jewish eternity. The oil represents the pintele Yid, the divine spark in every Jewish soul.

As we prepare for Hanukkah, this lesson calls out to us: Don’t give up on anyone. Don’t give up on yourself. There is always light.

The Power of Quiet Women: Devorah’s Hidden Strength

Tucked into Parashat Vayishlach is the passing of Devorah, Rivka’s faithful caretaker. Though seemingly minor, her mention teaches us something profound.

Devorah was Rivka’s support system, her behind-the-scenes rock. Her quiet strength allowed others to rise.

We all know a Devorah—a mother, teacher, neighbor—whose presence uplifts without fanfare. The Torah is reminding us: women’s spiritual work is foundational. Their strength builds the future. Their tefillot protect generations.

A Mitzvah That Saved a Soul: A Story of Redemption

Rabbi Pesach Krohn shared a remarkable story about Rebbetzin Kanievsky, whose quiet strength transformed lives.

A girl named Riva had chosen to leave Torah life and planned to marry out of the faith. Her brokenhearted parents brought her to the Rebbetzin.

“I’m not changing my mind,” Riva said.

The Rebbetzin didn’t argue. Instead, she gently asked, “Please take on just one mitzvah—something small, but something you'll never let go.”

Riva agreed. That one mitzvah became her anchor. Years later, it brought her home.

Never underestimate the power of one mitzvah. One spark. One moment.

Katonti—And Yet We Rise

This parasha reminds us: life includes struggle, darkness, uncertainty—but also tremendous hope, humility, and redemption.

Whether Yaakov is bowing to Eisav, wrestling in the night, or retrieving forgotten jugs, he teaches us:

• We are not defined by exile—we are uplifted by emunah.

• We are not weakened by humility—we are strengthened by tefillah.

• We are never alone—Hashem is with us in every moment.

Let’s embrace our Katonti, not as a limitation, but as an invitation to connect. To thank. To fight for holiness. To rise.