| Refuah Shleimah to Esther Shifra bas Rivka
“Yaacov was left alone, and a man wrestled with him until the break of dawn. When the man saw that he could not prevail against him…” (Bereishis 32:25). Chazal explain that this “man” was the guardian angel of Esav, who sought to overpower Yaacov. Their struggle was intense, yet the angel could not defeat him. Ordinarily, when a person faces an overwhelming challenge, his confidence wavers. How, then, was Yaacov able to contend with an angel of immense power, determined to destroy him?
Yaacov Avinu had mastered his inner world. He guarded his thoughts and his speech, directing them solely toward HaShem. Even in the midst of this terrifying confrontation, Yaacov did not allow his mind to drift from his heartfelt trust in HaShem. His unwavering focus and constant deveikus to HaShem enabled him to prevail.
This teaches us that no matter how great or intense a challenge may be, we can rise above it by anchoring ourselves in HaShem. If we continually place our trust in Him and turn to Him in tefillah, HaShem will guide and save us from every difficulty.
Picture the scene: the angel engaging Yaacov in fierce battle; Yaacov immediately overcoming fear by strengthening his faith, directing his heart to HaShem, and pleading for mercy, kindness, and deliverance. Similarly, whenever you face a trial, keep your mind focused on HaShem. Pray to Him, trust in Him, and rely on Him to carry you through every hardship. (Based on the commentary of the Seforno)
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