SF -- Yoseph's Strives for Inner Growth

quinta-feira, 23 de novembro de 2023

SF -- Yoseph's Strives for Inner Growth

"And it came to pass when Rachel gave birth to Yoseph"

(Bereishis 30:28). Our Sages revealed that Yoseph was the nemesis of Esau, as the prophet Ovadiyah revealed, "The house of Yoseph shall be a flame and the house of Esau shall become stubble." Yoseph's name signifies "increase." Yoseph continuously grew spiritually stronger, each day of his life, steadily increasing in holiness. Whereas, Esau's name connotes "finished." Esau saw himself as perfect, he saw no reason to strive for inner improvement. In contrast, Yoseph's constant effort to better himself empowered him with the strength to defeat Esau.

The key to Yoseph's power was his realization that there is no end to spiritual growth. The more Yoseph worked on self-improvement, the more the power of his holiness increased. Ultimately, Yoseph emerged as the flame of goodness that defeats and overcomes the evil quest of Esau.

Envision Yoseph constantly focused on improving his actions and refining his character traits. Yoseph elevates himself a little more each day, always striving to grow in holiness, kindness, and wisdom. See how Esau's complacency and arrogance renders him stagnant and vulnerable. Envision Yoseph bursting into a great flame and consume the evil Esau. Strive to improve yourself a little more, each and every day.

(Based on the commentary of Rav Dov Yaffe on the Shem M'Shmuel)