parshat vayetze: Unity and Love – The Key to Overcoming Envy

Eliyahu Frydman

06 December 2024

Rashi cites a Midrash about Yaakov Avinu, who gathered stones to place around himself for protection. However, the stones "argued," each claiming,"עלי יניח צדיק ראשו." (Upon me shall the righteous lay his head.) A miracle then occurred, and all the stones merged into one.

This raises an intriguing question: after the stones united into one, why didn’t the quarrel continue over which part of the stone Yaakov would rest his head upon? From here, we learn a profound lesson: when everyone is truly united and becomes one entity, there is no room for envy or competition. Each one rejoices in the other's success, and unity prevents discord.

Based on this idea, we can address the well-known question posed by the early commentators regarding the mitzvah of "לא תחמוד" (Do not covet). How is it possible to command a feeling of the heart? If someone feels envious, how can they simply stop? The early commentators offer various answers, but we can add another perspective: the mitzvah of "לא תחמוד" is not only a prohibition against feelings of envy but also a directive to foster love and unity between people. When one genuinely loves their fellow and feels united with them, envy cannot arise in their heart.

May we merit to fulfill the mitzvah of "ואהבת לרעך כמוך" , to live in true unity, and to rejoice in the happiness of others.