So for the previous perek, we were either presented with a genealogy list or an account. Throughout the Torah, we always see that there are certain members of the family(the "bad" ones) that fade away from history while others(the "good" ones) remain in history. The ones who go down, are always mentioned as a genealogy list whereas the ones that remain are told as an account and story. For example, Yaakov was the son who rose and from whom the descendants of Israel came, whereas Esav faded away. My question is the following:why is there always one person in the family that has to go down while another rises? what is the significance and purpose for this? why is that even important?
Carmit-
ReplyDeleteThis is a very interesting post! It is true that in Tanach we find a lot of instances where brothers or families fall separate ways. But isn't that life? It would almost be 'annoying' if the Torah was this perfect story where everyone got along and everything went exactly as planned because then we wouldn't learn anything exciting and meaningful. I hate to say this, but it could almost become just another history class. It is very common that families fall on different paths. It is also important to know who the 'bad ones' are like Eisav or Yishmael because they also become part of history. Putting all of this aside, I think we still must realize the great relationships between families in the Torah like Issachar and Zevulun who led totally different lives. However, as Rashi says, they used their talents to benefit each other.
What a great question, Carmit! I agree! It's like, you're either chosen or you're not chosen. I would also like to add that it's weird that people are always blamed for what their ancestors did. That doesn't seem fair. What's up with that?
ReplyDeleteWhat Alexa said was very smart and thought out and I have to agree with her.
Just because there are miracles and stuff in the Torah, doesn't mean the Torah goes against human nature.