SF - The Secret of Peaceful Relationships \ Parashat Vayeshev

Friday \ November 23 2018 \ 15 Kislev 5779

The Secret of Peaceful Relationships \ Parashat Vayeshev D'var Torah: Yaacov Avinu's choice to appease Esau with gifts and gestures of submission, needs an explanation. In light of the fact that Esau willingly sold his birthright to Yaacov, why did Yaacov act apologetically to Esau? Why didn't Yaacov confront Esau with the truth, "You sold me your birthright for a bowl of beans. You are responsible for your own foolishness!" Yaacov realized that he might win the argument, but he wouldn't win Esau's favor. He knew that Esau's towering ego would never admit that he was wrong. Any attempt on Yaacov's part to justify his actions would only serve to further antagonize Esau. Therefore, Yaacov sought Esau's forgiveness, even though he had done nothing wrong. With this conciliatory approach, not only did Yaacov conquer Esau's anger, he conquered Esau, himself. By Yaacov accepting the blame, Esau felt relieved that he didn't have to admit his own foolishness. Since Yaacov presented himself as the guilty party, Esau felt vindicated and happily made peace with Yaacov for the rest of his life.   Moral: Humility is the most powerful and effective force for peace and harmony in interpersonal relationships.  Application: Envision Yaacov Avinu using his wisdom to appease Esau in lieu of confronting  him. Imagine Esau's feelings turn from anger to love as he accepts Yaacov's humble expressions of apology. Approach all of your relationships with humility and foster love, peace, and joy with all of your family members and friends.    (Based on the commentary of Rabbi Aaron Bakst)  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  Thank you!  Visit the Salant Mussar Library L"N R' Yochanon Mordecai ben Ephraim and Moras Esther Leah bas Yehudah Yoseph Refuah Shleimah Yochanon Baruch ben Fruma Ettta Riva bas Henya Zivia bas Raizel Leah Hadassah bas Michal Chana Chava Bas Michal Chanah Chaya Harriet Bat Sophie Lee Mazal Malkah Mollie Bas Sarah Yakir Efraim Ben Rachel Devora Chaya Leah bas Sara STAY CONNECTED:

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