A 100% VirJEWal Synagogue serving the needs of all backgrounds of the Jewish Community of
Central, NJ since 1983
Eli B. Perlman, Rabbi
Congregation Beit Shalom / Monroe Township is a unique Conservative Egalitarian Congregation. The difference between this and other congregations is that we are truly a family. We get together to pray, to learn, to laugh, to sing, to schmooze - and it is 100% VirJEWal. When someone is in need, we help each other in ways that continue to inspire everyone.
The saga of the Jewish nation continues into a third
generation with the birth of twins to Yitzchak and Rivka. The boys, Yaakov and Esav, are as different physically and spiritually as two human beings can be. Esav is the definitive boor, while Yaakov is meek and righteous. The struggle between the two, which began in the womb, continues throughout their lives.
Even though we all labor under the illusion that the rights of the first-born include receiving the parental birthright, we sit in amazement as we watch Yaakov, the easygoing, timid, second child, trick Esav, the more cunning and driven eldest child, right out of his birthright.
As can be expected, we are reminded how Yitzchak trusted Avraham as he accompanied his father to his own “sacrifice.” Further, we are reminded how he trusted Eliezer, the servant, to select his wife when he was younger. Once again Yitzchak falls prey to trust when his wife, Rivka, deceives him into pronouncing the blessing of the first born upon Yaakov's head. She does this by taking full advantage of Yitzchak’s trust, advanced years, and blindness.
But then, when the truth comes out (as it always does), Yaakov is forced to flee for his life. He runs to the house of Lavan where he suffers a very distasteful life for a full twenty years. So far, the birthright looks like nothing but a curse. Who in the world needs a blessing like this?
And if you come back next week, we will continue the saga of: “As the Torah Scroll Turns...”
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