בס”ד
The Torah portion of Toldot tells us about the birth and lives of Jacob and Esau. The Torah says that even while they were in their mother’s womb, Jacob showed and developed opposing tendencies—Jacob was drawn to the Beit Midrash, while Esau was drawn to idolatry.
When we delve deeper into this issue, great astonishment arises over the very fact that the son of Isaac, our father, who was connected to G-d with all his heart, longed for idolatry while still in his mother’s womb. The question is not about him becoming wicked as an adult, since a person is given free choice to act as he wishes; but how is it possible that Esau showed a natural tendency to idolatry even while in his mother’s womb?! We must say that this tendency in itself was not a bad thing but rather an intention for a special way of worshiping G-d.
Maimonides explains at length that there are two general types of G-d’s servants: the ‘highest devotees’ and the ‘one who conquers his desires.’ The former desires only good, and all his service is in a constant ascent within holiness itself. In contrast, the latter also desires evil, and his greatness lies in the conquest of his desires.
Jacob and Esau, as created by nature, symbolize these two paths. Jacob’s nature is that of the ‘highest devotees’, while Esau’s nature is that of the ‘one who conquers his desires.’ The purpose of Esau’s natural attraction to idolatry was for him to overcome it and conquer his desire. This story delves into the complex nature of human desires. This is relevant to the Noahide people, who, on the one hand, observe the seven universal laws but, on the other hand, may also encounter certain difficulties along the way.
People have the choice to continue on any path, regardless of their initial inclinations. Each is responsible for his own actions and choices. The conflict between Jacob and Esau reflects the inner struggles that people often face between spiritual aspirations and earthly desires.
This conflict also exists in a spiritual dimension between Jacob and Esau. The Torah promises that in the end times Jacob will overcome what Esau represents at the time of complete redemption. As written in Obadiah 1:21: “Redeemers shall ascend Mount Zion to judge the mountain of Esau, and the kingship shall be the L-RD’s.”
By Rabbi Moshe Bernstein
If you want more questions for contemplation, SEE THE OTHER BLOGS FROM RABBI MOSHE BERNSTEIN
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