14 Nov MTC Highlights: Parshat Vayera
Rav Avi Block - Educator
In the Torah’s dramatic account of Akeidat Yitzchak, the story culminates with something peculiar. When Avraham is stopped from committing the act of slaughtering his son, a divine angel is sent to deliver the message. Following this message, Avraham performs two acts: he sacrifices a ram in place of his son and then he re-names the site of this episode HaShem Yireh (literally “God will see”).
Finally, the angel returns and speaks to Avraham a second time and delivers the message that because he had done this act and because he withheld the sacrifice of his son (“יַעַן אֲשֶׁר עָשִׂיתָ אֶת-הַדָּבָר הַזֶּה, וְלֹא חָשַׂכְתָּ, אֶת-בִּנְךָ אֶת-יְחִידֶךָ”) – because of this he will be blessed with countless offspring. But what was the need for the second speech of the angel?
This blessing of numerous offspring is something Avraham has heard numerous times in the past. Why does the angel say that this blessing is a consequence of what Avraham had done in this moment?
One possible way to read this episode is to see the greatness of Avraham not only in his willingness to sacrifice or to halt sacrifice purely based on God’s instructions. Maybe the “דבר הזה” being referred to is the two things he does before the angel returns – he sacrifices a ram and he names the location marking it as a place of God’s presence. It is important to remember that neither of these two acts were things that he was directed to do. They were individual and self-motivated acts of sacrifice and appreciation.
While it can never really be said that living a life of obedience and conformity is an easy thing to do, there is a certain simplicity in strictly following a rule book. But maybe the measure of our legacy is not the degree to which we strictly follow the specific rules, but rather the ways in which we find individual expression that goes above and beyond the strict letter of the law.
May we all take the model of Avraham to heart as we strive to find our individual voices and paths in establishing our own enduring legacy.
Shabbat Shalom.
Student Reflection
Eliana Davilla - Hasmonean High, UK - London, UK
I feel incredibly blessed to have the opportunity to spend this year at MTC.
From the very moment I arrived, the warm and welcoming environment made it clear that this was the right place for me. The sense of community here is so uplifting, and I’ve felt surrounded by kindness and encouragement from day one. It’s hard to believe that nearly two months have already flown by – it’s been such a fulfilling experience!
Learning in the mornings and working with the kids in the afternoon has been the perfect blend for me. Not only do I have the chance to explore many areas of Judaism through a range of classes, but I also get to actively apply what I’ve learnt and make a positive impact on the children I work with. The experience of playing with the children of the Pnimiyat Yom is incredibly rewarding, and it’s clear to me that I’m not only contributing to their development but also discovering and shaping my own true self along the way.
The children here have had a great impact on me. Despite the challenges they’ve faced, their resilience, joy, and ability to appreciate even the smallest things inspire me daily. Their strength and positivity have taught me to be more grateful for the people and opportunities in my own life.
When I first started working with the youngest age group in the Pnimiyat yom, I wasn’t sure how I would form meaningful connections with such young children. But over time, I’ve realized how wrong I was. The relationships I’ve built with my girls have been so deep and meaningful, and it’s heartwarming to see their faces light up when I walk into the room.
MTC has truly become my home, thanks to the incredible mix of people and staff here. The impact this place has already had on my life is immeasurable, and I’m excited to see how much more I’ll grow and learn during the rest of my time here. I’m surrounded by motivated, optimistic individuals, all striving to become the best versions of themselves, and it’s inspiring me to do the same.
I can’t wait to spend this Shabbat in Ofra with all of MTC and to make so many more memories here in the future!
