Rabbi Howard Morrison

This Shabbat weekend brings together the weekly Torah portion of Toldot, Shabbat being also the eve of Rosh Chodesh, and the onset of the month of Kislev. The three occasions also provide us with meaningful stories of sibling-like relationships:

In Parshat Toldot, we are introduced to the twins, Jacob and Esau. The story of two brothers who could have been close unravels with tragic consequences. Each parent favors a different child. When a blind father is manipulated to give Jacob the blessing that was due to Esau, the threat of Esau forces Jacob to flee from home. Only many years later when both have families and legacies of their own do the two brothers reunite.

Contrast the Torah's story with the special Haftarah this Shabbat. When Shabbat coincides with the eve of Rosh Chodesh, we read the beautiful tale of a young David and his dear friend Jonathan, son of king Saul. While not technically siblings, these two best friends are completely loyal and dedicated to each other. The Haftarah presents a creative strategy between David and Jonathan which will ensure David's safety at the threat of a jealous king Saul. Siblings, like Jacob and Esau, could learn a lot about friendship and loyalty from two spiritual brothers - David and Jonathan.

On Sunday and Monday, we will transition the calendar from the month of Heshvan to the month of Kislev. Already we begin to think of Chanukah, which centers around the story of five Maccabean brothers led by Judah Maccabee. Their unity, religious piety, and concern for the fate of Judaism propels one of the greatest miracles in Jewish history. The many fall into the hands of the few, the wicked into the hands of the righteous, etc. 

What will your story be? What will be the story of your children, grandchildren, and other relationships? This weekend's calendar puts forward three models of sibling-like relationships: Jacob and Esau, David and Jonathan, and the Maccabee brothers.

Shabbat Shalom and Chodesh Tov,
Rabbi Howard Morrison