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In Parshas Vayeishev we read of Yosef’s two dreams. First, he dreamt that he and his brothers[1] “were binding sheaves in the field. My sheaf arose and stood upright, and your sheaves encircled it and bowed down to it.” His second dream was that[2] “The sun, the moon, and eleven stars were prostrating themselves to me.”
After telling his brothers and his fathers these dreams, the Torah says that “his brothers were jealous of him, but his father awaited the matter.” What was his father, Yaakov Avinu, waiting for? Rashi explains that “He was waiting and looking forward in expectation of when it (the fulfillment) would come, Similarly, the prophet writes[3], ‘awaiting (שׁוֹמֵר) the realization (of Hashem’s promise).'”
Everything in the Torah provides all of us with a lesson for every time and place. This Parshah tells us an inspiring story. However, what does this have to do with us?
All of the actions of our forefathers provide us, their children, with special lessons[4]. However, this Parshah carries it a step further. It does not speak about Yaakov, Yosef, and his other children (solely) as individuals. Rather, it is discussing us, their children[5].
Rashi’s words, that Yaakov was “awaiting the realization (of Hashem’s promise),” refers to something which is incumbent upon each one of us. We must all constantly be waiting for, and anticipating the arrival of Moshiach, and our redemption from Golus. This is further emphasized by Rashi’s quote from the prophet, “awaiting the realization.” In the book of Yeshayahu, Rashi comments on that phrase, and explains as follows. The Jews are waiting for, and yearning for, the realization of Hashem’s promise to redeem us from exile.
Each of us must learn to yearn for the redemption from our forefather Yaakov. In that merit we will certainly bring Moshiach now!
Have a great week, a wonderful Shabbos, and an illuminating Chanukah!
Rabbi Shmuel Mendelsohn
Adapted from Likkutei Sichos Volume 35, p. 161 ff.
DEDICATED IN HONOR OF THE LUBAVITCHER REBBE
מוקדש לזכות כ”ק אדמו”ר נשיא דורנו מליובאוויטש
IN HONOR OF
The Soldiers of Tzivos Hashem Chaim and Aiden Oded שיחיו Morris
DEDICATED BY THEIR PARENTS
Rabbi & Mrs. Menachem M. and Chaya Mushka שיחיו Morris
לזכות
חיילי “צבאות השם” חיים ועדן עודד שיחיו מאריס
נדפס ע”י הוריהם
הרה”ת ר’ מנחם מענדל וזוגתו מרת חי’ מושקא שיחיו מאריס
[1]. Our Parshah, Bereishis 37:7.
[2]. Ibid, ibid. 37:9.
[3]. Yeshayahu 26:2.
[4]. See the Ramban’s commentary to Parshas Lech Lecho, Bereishis 12:6.
[5]. See the Akeidah’s commentary to our Parshah.
The Rebbe Teaches Rashi 