I have a group chat with Jewish friends that used to be a predictable nightmare. We fought about everything: Israeli politics, American politics, theological politics, even imaginary politics. But lately? Bliss. Every headline about antisemitism—on campus, in the streets—we all agree. I thought: Look at us. Healing.
And then, last week, someone mentioned Bibi and Haredi draft exemptions. Within seconds, the group reverted to its natural state: arguing, defensive, frustrated, exhausted.
It was still on my mind when I read this week’s Torah portion, Vayishlach. Here’s what struck me: Vayishlach is the closing chapter on Jacob’s external enemies.
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