VAYEISHEV – (Genesis 37)

 

Having arrived safely in Hebron, Jacob assumed the mantle of leadership.

Joseph shares his two dreams with the family, one which his brothers’ sheaves bow down to his, and a second in which the sun moon and stars bowed down to him, arousing his brothers anger.

(Joseph) said (to his brothers), “please listen to this dream I had”.. Genesis 37:6

Joseph’s two dreams seem to convey the same idea. The reason for the apparent repetition is that they symbolise two distinct stages in the relationship between each generation and its leaders.

Sheaves of grain are made up of individual stalks, which grow discreetly from one another, each in its own groove. Binding them together into sheaves symbolises our first task in life; gather together all of our capacities and talents and uniting them in the work of holiness. Once we have become a “sheaf” we need to seek guidance and inspiration from a “Joseph”, a spiritual leader.

As we mature spiritually, we reach a higher level: having risen above earthy consciousness and shine like a “star. Yet even on this level, we should not rely on our own achievements for inspiration, for this can lead to stagnation and complacency. Rather we must still continue to turn to our “joseph” – ie, our spiritual mentor – for further insight and inspiration.

This coming Sunday evening 2nd December, is the Festival Chanukah, we light the first light of the Menorah.

PLEASE COME AND JOIN US AT ONE OR MORE OF OUR SIX PUBLIC LIGHTING CEREMONIES BEGINNING SUNDAY NIGHT AT BUCKHURST HILL AND CONCLUDING SATURDAY NIGHT AT GANTS HILL. HAPPY CHANUKAH.

Have a great Shabbat and successful week to follow