Category Archives: Midrash

The Pit in Joseph

Posted on November 25, 2010 by Sicha, Continuing the Conversation

The story of Joseph begins in parshat VaYeshev where his rise to power begins in a pit:  They [Joseph’s brothers] took him and threw him into a pit (Genesis 27:31). A short midrash explores the effect of this moment on … Continue reading →

Posted in Midrash, Parshat HaShavuah, Poetry | 2 Comments

Naming the Angel

Posted on November 18, 2010 by Sicha, Continuing the Conversation

At the end of a night-long struggle, Jacob earned a new name from his assailant—Israel, the one who prevailed over God. In return, Jacob asked:  Please tell me your name.  And he replied:  Why do you ask my name? (Genesis … Continue reading →

Posted in Angels, Midrash, Names, Parshat HaShavuah, Poetry | 2 Comments

A God Who Takes Place

Posted on November 8, 2010 by Sicha, Continuing the Conversation

Jacob left Beersheba and set out for Haran (Genesis 28:10).  The landscape is a blur as Jacob makes his escape from his vengeful brother, Esau. But Jacob’s headlong flight stills at a certain place, at the place: And he came … Continue reading →

Posted in Midrash, Parshat HaShavuah, Poetry | 1 Comment

Isaac’s Blindness, As the Story Is Told

Posted on November 2, 2010 by Sicha, Continuing the Conversation

When Isaac was old, his eyes grew too dim to see (Genesis 27:1). Isaac’s blindness—the first infirmity mentioned in Scripture—sets the stage for deception and for two brothers’ struggle over a birthright and a blessing.  For one ancient sage, Isaac’s … Continue reading →

Posted in Midrash, Parshat HaShavuah, Poetry | 5 Comments