| Refuah Shleimah to Esther Shifra bas Rivka
“And Yaacov awakened from his sleep and said: ‘Indeed, HaShem is in this place, and I did not know it’” (Bereishis 28:16).
When Yaacov Avinu fled to Charan to escape Esav’s deadly anger, he was overwhelmed with fear. We can easily understand his dread—Esav was actively seeking to kill him. Yet Yaacov was a man of towering faith. Why then was he afraid?
The answer touches a deep truth about human nature. Even the greatest tzaddik can experience powerful emotions that rise against his will. Fear, sadness, confusion—these can momentarily overshadow the heart, even when one’s mind is filled with trust in HaShem. Knowing this, HaShem sent Yaacov a prophetic dream to steady his spirit and strengthen his faith.
In the famous vision of the ladder with angels ascending and descending, HaShem revealed to Yaacov that He was always near him. Even more, HaShem showed Yaacov how precious his avodah was and assured him: “I am with you, and I will guard you wherever you go.” With this revelation, Yaacov realized that HaShem’s protection surrounded him constantly—even when he had not been fully aware of it.
From this, we learn a profound lesson: As long as a person’s will is directed toward trusting in HaShem, his faith will never collapse. Even if moments of fear or doubt surface, HaShem Himself will help him rebuild his strength, fortify his trust, and restore calm to his heart.
Today: Envision Yaacov Avinu leaving Eretz Yisrael, feeling the weight of danger as Esav seeks his life. Fear begins to tighten its grip—until HaShem appears to him in a dream and reveals His constant presence and protection. Let this image reassure you: HaShem will always help you strengthen your trust in Him and dispel your fears. Turn to Him, and He will steady your heart just as He steadied Yaacov’s. (Based on the commentary of the Malbim) I | 
