We'll be mixing the MASHAL (analogy) and NIMSHAL (what we are actually talking about). You should be able to separate the two. G-d created a prototype of a human being - we call him Adam HaRishon (and Chava). G-d had plans, so to speak, for this new item - human being. For quite a while, the item was mass-produced and for about the first 2000 years since Creation things went downhill. An occasional good person, but by and large, the product failed to live up to the standards of the Boss. During the second millenium, it was then almost totally back to the drawing board, retaining a few samples of the original product and basically starting over again. Results were quite disappointing, until one particular sample was found to be unique and the Boss knew He was on the right track. This exciting, promising individual was tested repeatedly to see if he was actually what the Boss thought he might be. And he was. He and his wife - perfect partners for this new line of products, greatly pleased G-d and He promised them many descendants and the Land of Israel. We now move on to another part of the production line. Since it's obvious about whom we are speaking, we'll name names. Avraham had Yishmael and originally thought that his legacy would be passed on through him. Was not to be. KI V'YITZCHAK... through Yitzchak will be your continuity. Yitzchak underwent several experiences - some similar to his father's and some different - in order to fine tune the product. And when we move on to the next generation of the line, we find a further refining by the blessings and legacy going through Yaakov and not Eisav. Both Yishmael and Eisav become the progenitors of great nations, but not that special line that is the subject of today's Torah tour. Once Yaakov tests out successfully, G-d is ready (so to speak) to begin a limited run of the product, with future plans for mass-production. And so it happens. Twelve sons are born to Yaakov and, as we see later, they all prove to be worthy of the high-quality product and the promised rewards. But not without further refinement. But that's part of the tour for upcoming weeks. Let's jump further down the process. To us. The quality control of the line begun with Avraham and Sara is always tested and improved upon. We cannot rest on Z'chut Avot. We must always be proactive. [The Parshat Vayeitzei Homepage]
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