Parashat Vayechi 5784

by Rabbi Ellen S. Wolintz-Fields

In Parashat Vayechi, we see Jacob on his deathbed, ready to bless his children. Later in the Torah Reading, Joseph is also on his deathbed. This final Torah Reading in the Book of Genesis, Sefer Bereshit, can highlight for our communities the importance of taking responsibility for those who are ready to die. How do we treat them? How do we make them as comfortable as possible? What is our responsibility in preparing our families for our own demise? End of life is such a difficult time, and no one wants to think about it, but we should take personal responsibility to make sure our loved ones know our wishes and requests when the end comes, and we should know theirs. Sometimes we need to take responsibility, even when it is not an enjoyable topic.