by Rabbi Moshe P. Weisblum
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here are that of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the Union for Traditional Judaism, unless otherwise indicated.
Parashat Vayishlach portrays the full spectrum of human emotion: pain, fear, family dynamics, forgiveness and redemption. In the first part of the weekly portion, Jacob is paralyzed by fear, because his biological brother, whom he wronged, is out for vengeance. Jacob wrestles with guilt and self-doubt in the aftermath of his betrayal and his struggle very much mirrors human experience. How many of us have failed in the same way, too terrified to face the consequences of our mistakes? Jacob’s physical, emotional and spiritual battle with the angel is a reflection of his inner turmoil, and his refusal to let his opponent go without a blessing is his way of finding peace. When G-d changes his name to Yisrael, which literally means “one who struggles with G-d and with man and prevails,” it signifies not just victory but real transformation for him. So, too, in our own life struggles, we are tasked with discovering light in darkness, seeing blessing in hardship and believing that our difficulties will eventually lead to growth and change. In their emotional reunion, Esav runs to embrace Jacob, suggesting that he opted for forgiveness over revenge and personal growth over the holding of a grudge.
Alas it is not the last time these brothers will be tested. When Dina is abducted and violated by the people of Shechem, Jacob rebukes her brothers over their furious response. The behavior of Shimon and Levi as they go on a killing spree to avenge their sister shows us that emotion, however valid, must be channeled properly. Unchecked rage can only lead to further harm; wisdom must be employed to ensure that full-fledged destruction does not follow in its wake. Similarly, though we may struggle, and sometimes fail, we must keep in mind that there is always a chance for renewal. G-d is always with us, even in our deepest pain, offering a way back to wholeness and grace. Our battles may leave us with scars, but we must see these remnants as signs of strength, not defeat. If we process our adversity with this sort of perspective and wisdom, we can emerge from the experience with renewed purpose with which to face the future.
When we light the menorah on Hannukah, let’s have this timeless act remind us that in our darkest moments, a small light can still shine. And when we feel empty and lost, let’s not lose hope. After all, the oil lasted eight days, just when it seemed that there was nothing left. We have reserves of strength that are as yet untapped, the universal spark of “Yisrael” that helps us achieve the impossible. So, no matter how dark life dark gets, never let the light go out. G-d will see you through – that’s a promise.
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Born in Sde Ya’akov, Israel, Rabbi Moshe Pinchas Weisblum, PhD is a 14th generation rabbi in his family's dynasty of rabbinical leaders. His great grandfather was the famous Tzadik Rabbi Elimelech Weisblum of Lizhensk, Poland, one of the great founding Rebbes of the Chasidic movement and author of the brilliant book of commentary on the Torah: Noam Elimelech. His grandfather (from his father's side) was the well known Zidichov Rebbe - Rabbi Ya’akov Yitzchak Weisblum. He is the son of renowned scholar, former Rosh Yeshiva of Sde Ya’akov and the Rabbi of Neve Sha'anan neighborhood in Haifa for over 50 years - Rabbi Chaim Naftali Weisblum, and the grandson (from his mother's side) of the famous Kabbalistic master and author, Rabbi Yehuda Zvi Brandwein.
Rabbi Moshe P. Weisblum studied at Yeshivat Torat Emet, Haifa, from 1968 to 1976, at Yeshivat Itri from 1976 to 1978, and was a student at Yeshivat Ohr Etzion from 1978 to 1980.
In early 1981, he volunteered for the elite paratrooper unit in the Israeli Defense Forces. He completed extensive courses and received a medal and commendation at the end of the Israeli-Lebanese War. He finished his military career as a commissioned officer in the army with the rank of Major.
Rabbi Weisblum earned a Masters Degree in Public Administration from Fairleigh Dickinson University, New Jersey, and earned a PhD in Philosophy from Baltimore Hebrew University. He also had an aptitude for computer skills, in networking, earning an A+ certification. Further, he was awarded the Sidney Breitbart Prize in Jewish philosophy from Baltimore Hebrew University in 2005.
Rabbi Weisblum was also a consultant to the media, since 1991.He was on a TV interview, channel 12-talk show, cable TV channel 54 –commentator on social and political issues. He was interviewed on the radio many times, regarding political and religious analysis and consulted on Middle Eastern affairs to Washington D.C.
He is a member of the New York Board of Rabbis, New Jersey Board of Rabbis, Union of Traditional Judaism, and Morasha Rabbinic fellowship.
Rabbi Weisblum has published a number of books including "Table Talk Biblical Questions and Answers" and "Ruth Talk", which is loaded with questions and answers on the Book of Ruth. In 2007, his book "The Hermeneutics of Medieval Jewish Thoughts Understanding the Linguistic Codes of Rashi and Nachmanides" was published by the Edwin Mellen Press. A review of this book can be found on the Mellen Press Web site.
Rabbi Weisblum is an accomplished musician as well. His album Heartfelt Melodies is available on Amazon and his popular YouTube channel features close to 3000 videos including Daf Yomi, Torah and Haftarah cantillation, lectures, music videos, and more.
Rabbi Weisblum is blessed with five children and eleven grandchildren and serves as a spiritual leader, lecturer and University Professor.