Vayetze
A familiar part of the Shabbat Morning Prayer, is psalm 135, where the blessing of G‑d is a recurring theme.
"House of Israel, bless Hashem; House of Aaron, bless Hashem; House of Levi, bless Hashem; those who fear Hashem, bless Hashem."
The Tzror Hamor, Rabbi Avraham Sabba, points out, while all the groups initially mentioned are described by "House of..." The last group is referred to simply, as those who fear G‑d. Why this change? What does this teach us?
An actual house, the Tzror Hamor explains, represents both physical well being and stability. It is the goal of every person to have a home in where one can prosper both physically and spiritually.
However one can also get lost and caught up in a home and the physical stability it embodies. Sometimes when we are too comfortable we lose focus of our mission and purpose.
That is why the ultimate litmus test of character and devotion, is how we behave without that perfect "home?" How do we act when faced with the challenges of the road and a foreign environment?
Therefore, the Tzror Hamor says, when we mention those who "fear G‑d," there is no mention of a "House." One who truly embraces his mission on earth is consistent wherever he may be.
Echoes of this idea are found in this week's Parsha. Although our Parsha begins with "Vayetze Yaakov," Yaakov leaving his home and comforts for "Charan," a foreign and difficult environment, still Yaakov remains the same.
Not bowing to the environment or circumstances, his devotion to G‑d and commitment to integrity remains, and he ultimately builds a beautiful "home," his family, the Jewish people.
Portuguese Jewish history is a rich tapestry of accomplishment and challenge spanning the centuries. Portugal's shores have produced and housed some of our greatest Rabbis and leaders. From statesman, leader and scholar Rabbi Don Yitzchak Abarbanel to Shulchan Aruch author Rabbi Yosef Karo in the 15th century through to the Lubavitcher Rebbe's time in Lisbon in 1941, Portugal has enabled tremendous developments in strengthening community and Torah.
It is in recognition of the timeless nature of these commitments, and in honor of all of those Jews who have called Portugal home through times of brilliance and darkness, that these Torah insight's from Portugal's great Rabbis is produced - here in Portugal.
Special thanks to Rabbi Shlomo Pereira for the Portuguese translation.