Parshat Vayetze: Yaakov’s Dream/ Am Yisrael’s Future A PowerPoint Review, to be viewed with the corresponding shiur. Shiur by Menachem Leibtag Presentation by Ronni Libson & Tammy Weisz

Bechira Process: When will it end? The bechira goes to one of Yitzchak's children - but which one?

Divine Reassurance Yaakov may doubt that he is chosen:  Yitzchak planned to give the primary bracha to Esav  His parents sent him away from Eretz Canaan  When Yitzchak’s brothers were rejected, they were sent to the east: Now Yaakov himself is being sent to the east:  Bechira must come from God, not father Bechira Process: When will it end?

The bechira goes to Yaakov

Confirmation of Bechira Extra Promise to Yaakov: Relates to Yaakov’s situation - even though he must now leave Eretz Canaan, Hashem will remain with him, take care of him, and ultimately bring him back Immediate Reaction:

Yaakov makes a Neder "And Yaakov then made a vow saying:  If God will be with me,  And He protects me on this journey on which I embark,  And gives me bread to eat and clothes to wear.  And I return safely to my father's house,  And Hashem will be my God.  And this stone, which I have set up as a monument will be a Bet Elokim  And from all that You give me I will set aside one- tenth." Condition Promise Conditional promise: If [condition] then [promise] Condition or Promise?

Condition or Promise “And Hashem will be my God.” – Condition or Promise? Not a condition:  Conditions reflect Hashem’s earlier promise: Condition (28:20-21)Hashem’s promise (28:15)  Does not add anything more than the first condition, “If God will be with me” Not a promise:  How could Yaakov possibly accept Hashem as his God only if God fulfills His promises?! This statement is not found in Hashem’s earlier promise Rashi

Condition or Promise Refers to Hashem’s earlier promise to Avraham at Brit Milah "l'hiyot l'cha l'Elokim" (17:7-8) Rashi: This clause is a summary of previous clausesRashbam: Ramban: Radak: Seforno: Yaakov vows to intensify his relationship with God should (or actually when) God fulfills His promise. Classical Commentators: Promise Condition “Neder” reflects readiness to fulfill the divine purpose of “bechira”. Yaakov initiates a reciprocal relationship with God.

Hitgalut Emphasizes Yaakov’s mission and purpose of bechira Similar to hitgalut to Avraham: Both took place in Bet-El Hitgalut to Yaakov: Yaakov realizes that he currently stands on the same site where Avraham Avinu built a mizbayach and 'called out in God's Name.' Bet Elokim