Vayechi Jacob Lives, Inspiring Faith and Redemptio

Vayechi: Jacob Lives, Inspiring Faith and Redemption

The weekly Torah portion Vayechi begins with a surprising statement: Jacob did not die. This raises many questions. After all, he was buried, so how could he still be alive? The answer lies in the spiritual nature of Jacob's life. As long as his descendants follow the path of Torah and mitzvot, Jacob continues to live through them. His life was never just about his physical body—it was about the legacy he left behind, the faith and values he instilled in his children.
This also explains why the 17 years Jacob spent in Egypt were the best years of his life. Egypt, known as a place of corruption and darkness, became a center of light because of Jacob. In the land of Goshen, where his family settled, Jacob established a school for Torah study. This ensured that even in exile, his descendants would remain connected to holiness and the sanctity of the Land of Israel. Through the study of Torah, they gained the spiritual strength to resist the darkness surrounding them.
Today, Israel faces a similar kind of darkness. On the outside, there are threats from Syria, Iran, Hezbollah, Islamic Jihad, the Houthis, Turkey, and others who seek to weaken or destroy Israel. Inside, there is the Gaza Strip, where Hamas and other radical groups spread terror and hatred. Yet, just as a candle shine brightest in the dark, Israel’s light grows stronger in the face of these challenges. We see miracles happening every day as G-d protects His people and gives them the strength to endure.
One of the most moving moments in this week’s portion is Jacob’s blessing to Ephraim and Manasseh, the sons of Joseph. Despite his failing eyesight, Jacob places his right hand on the younger son, Ephraim, and his left on the older, Manasseh. Joseph tries to correct him, thinking it was a mistake, but Jacob insists, “I know what I’m doing.” He foresaw that Ephraim would surpass Manasseh, a prophecy fulfilled when Joshua, a descendant of Ephraim, became the leader who brought the Jewish people into the Land of Israel. This story reminds us that greatness is not determined by human expectations but by divine wisdom. Jacob’s blessing was not just for his grandchildren but for the future of the Jewish people.
Jacob’s story parallels the work of Ze’ev Jabotinsky, who laid the foundation for the modern State of Israel. Just as Jacob sent Judah to establish a spiritual base in Goshen, Jabotinsky created the Betar movement to prepare the next generation for the rebirth of Israel. Betar instilled a sense of national pride and responsibility, training young Jews to fight for independence. It was a school of thought and action that inspired the Jewish people to reclaim their homeland.

Today, Israel continues the mission of Jacob and Jabotinsky. It stands as a center of national and spiritual life for the Jewish people. Despite all the challenges, Israel remains a beacon of holiness, uniting Jews worldwide and preparing the world for the ultimate redemption.
This week’s portion shows us the deep connection between the past, present, and future. Jacob’s blessings to his grandchildren reflected his faith in the Jewish people’s future. His life and legacy teach us the power of unity, faith, and Torah. Even when surrounded by darkness, the light of Israel shines brightly, bringing us closer every day to the redemption that generations of Jews have dreamed of.