by Rabbi Ellen S. Wolintz-Fields
In his week’s Torah reading, Parashat Vayishlach, Jacob receives his new name, Israel, after wrestling with an angel or person, depending on interpretation. The explanation for the name Israel is “for you have striven with beings divine and human, and have prevailed” (Genesis 32:29). What an appropriate name for our people, who often are wrestling – whether it is with our feelings towards each other; our beliefs; our faith; our politics. Two Jews: three opinions. We are meant to question and wrestle, but remain in dialogue, respectfully with each other. Am Yisrael Chai! All people of Israel Live!
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