The Power of Vibrant Faith \ Parashat Vayeshev
D'var Torah: Yoseph had two prophetic dreams which foretold that he would become a king. After his initial joy at the prospect of becoming king, Yoseph experienced great difficulties. Specifically, at the hands of his brothers who sold him into slavery. Yoseph assumed that the sore troubles that befell him revealed that he was unworthy for the fulfilment of the prophecy. Since he assumed that he had lost the merit to be king, he asked the royal cupbearer to intervene to Pharoah on his behalf. As a result of trusting in a human agency, his stay in jail was lengthened by two additional years. However, since humility is the most important virtue, why was he penalized for deeming himself unworthy? The answer is that even if Yoseph's spiritual status had declined, he was still obligated to trust in HaShem. His faith in HaShem's infinite compassion would have brought about the fulfillemt of his prophecies. Regardess of his spiritual status, HaShem would have rescued him and made him a king.
Moral: HaShem's unbounded compassion is far greater than any sin. Therefore, if a person considers himself unworthy of HaShem's redemption, he is accountable because he lacks faith in HaShem's infinite compassion.
Application: Never despair of HaShem's love for you. Even if you sense that you are unworthy, place your heartfelt trust in HaShem and he will save you from all of your troubles (Based on the commentary of Rabbi Yisrael Salanter) We're on a search! Looking for a Shul or community to support the seminal Salant Kollel and Mussar Centre. AdoptAKollel.org makes it easy. Please contact Rabbi Zvi Miller for further information, at salantorg@gmail.com |
L"N R' Yochanon Mordecai ben Ephraim and Moras Esther Leah bas Yehudah Yoseph
Refuah Shleimah
Yochanon Baruch ben Fruma Ettta
Riva bas HenyaZivia bas RaizelLeah Hadassah bas Michal ChanaChava Bas Michal ChanahChaya Harriet Bat Sophie Lee Mazal Malkah Mollie Bas Sarah Yakir Efraim Ben Rachel Devora
Chaya Leah bas Sara |
