Weekly Torah Portion Vayeshev

The story of Joseph being sold by his brothers is both a real event and a lesson for life. The Torah is not just history; it’s a guide for how to live and how to see the world. Joseph’s story reminds us that even the hardest and most painful moments are part of a greater plan. When Jacob sent Joseph “from the valley of Hebron,” the Torah is hinting at something deeper. Hebron is on a mountain, not in a valley, so what does this mean? It’s teaching us about the “deep plan” of God, which began with His promise to Abraham—that his descendants would suffer in a foreign land but would one day be redeemed.

Joseph’s suffering was not random. God allowed his brothers to sell him into slavery because it was the first step in a plan that would save the entire family during the famine. What seemed like betrayal and cruelty was actually the path to something much greater. Joseph’s pain became the foundation for redemption.

The story of Tamar has a similar message. When Judah’s sons Er and Onan married Tamar and both passed away, Judah refused to give her his youngest son. Tamar, left alone and desperate to fulfill her role, disguised herself and brought Judah to unite with her. From this union came twins, Peretz and Zerach. Peretz became the ancestor of King David and, ultimately, Moshiach.

At first glance, Tamar’s actions seem questionable, even wrong. But God works in ways we don’t always understand. This story shows us that even what seems improper can lead to the greatest good. God “tricked” the evil inclination and made it support the journey of Moshiach’s soul.

As a Jew from Ukraine, these stories speak to me deeply. Right now, in Ukraine, we are living through destruction and suffering. War has taken lives, destroyed homes, and left many feeling hopeless. But the Torah teaches us that even in the darkest times, there is a purpose, even if we can’t see it yet. Like Joseph in Egypt or Tamar in her struggle, Ukraine is in a dark valley right now. But I believe there is a path forward, and eventually, light will come.

The same is true for Israel. The tragedy of October 7 was heartbreaking for the Jewish people, but already we see signs of strength and victory. Israel is reclaiming its heritage, expanding buffer zones in Syria, solidifying its control over the Golan Heights, and securing Gaza. These steps remind us of the time of King Solomon, when Israel’s borders were at their largest.

The stories of Joseph and Tamar teach us to trust that even pain has a purpose. What seems like loss can become the foundation for something great. I hold this belief close to my heart, not just for Israel, but for Ukraine too.

We don’t always understand God’s plan, but the Torah reminds us to trust Him. As it says in the Talmud, “Everything that God does is for the good.” We may not see it today, but one day, we will.

Joseph’s rise from slavery to leadership, and Tamar’s role in bringing forth the line of King David, show us that redemption can come from the most unexpected places. So too, I believe Ukraine and Israel will find their redemption. The suffering of today will lead to the light of tomorrow.

May God bring peace, healing, and the ultimate redemption to all of us, in Israel, Ukraine, and the entire world, with the coming of Moshiach soon.