Friday December 6, 1996                                           Erev
Shabbat Kisleiv25, 5757

Vayaishev (Genesis 37:1-40:23)Chanuka

Something to think about:

This Shabbat we enjoy the regular reading and the additional Torah reading
for Chanukah.  Vayaishev contains the disturbing sale of Joseph by his
brothers and the hardships he incurred as a slave. Each section demands
study and understanding.  Good Luck!! 

There is one verse that simultaneously teaches us an important lesson
while connecting perfectly to Chanukah.  "And these are the children of
Jacob: Joseph." (37:2) Certainly there were other children.  Why just
mention Joseph?  Rashi (12th century) explains that to Yaakov (Jacob),
Joseph was his main (and favorite) son.  He saw himself in Joseph. 

There is another poetic interpretation offered by Reb Mendel Rimminover
(19th century Chassidic leader).  He reads the same verse as, "This is
the heritage (children) of Yaakov: ALWAYS INCREASE"  (the Hebrew name
"Yosef" means to increase).  In matters of spirituality, never be
satisfied with yesterdays accomplishments.  For some reason people rarely
feel "rich enough" but they often feel "religious enough". 

This concept is seen in our lighting of the Chanukah menorah.  The Talmud
cites the discussion whether we should light eight the first night and
continue in decreasing numbers until one on the last night; or should we
light one the first night and continue increasing until the eighth night. 
As you well know, the Halacha (Jewish law) is that we increase.  The
reason is stated as "We should always increase in holiness (ma'alin
ba'kodesh)."  The spiritual growth of Chanukah should light up our paths
and influence our development throughout the entire year. 

Candle lighting-4:50
                                                        Shabbat Ends-5:50
Good Shabbos!!                             Rabbi  Hirsh Michel Chinn