Master Your Emotions \ Parashat Vayechei
D'var Torah: When Yaacov blessed his sons on his death bed, he said to Yehudah, "My son, you withdrew." Yaacov praised Yehudah for "withdrawing" from his brothers counsel to kill Yoseph. In addition, Yehudah convinced them not to harm Yoseph, saying to them, "What is the gain if we slay our brother?" Similarly, Yehudah "withdrew" his ruling that Tamar be executed, and acknowledged his own responsibility. Yehudah had the strength of character to stand up for the truth, without following the crowd or being swayed by emotions. Moral: In light of Yehudah's impeccable integrity, HaShem selected his descendants to be the kings of Israel. Just as Yehudah mastered over himself, so too, the Davidic dynasty had the moral courage to lead the People of Israel and inspire them to act kindly and justly. Application: Envision Yehudah overcoming his emotions and recognizing the injustice in killing Yoseph. See him take the leadership role and convince his brothers not to harm Yoseph. Prevail over your emotions to do the right thing and awaken your leadership qualities to influence others to goodness. (Based on the commentary of Rashi and Da'as Torah)
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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 |