Vayaytzay, Chanukah
The Baal Ha’turim at the outset of the parsha notes that the entire parsha is "stumah"/closed. That means, that normally the parsha as written in the Torah has paragraphs and sections, where in contrast Vayatzay is "closed.” It is written as a long episode from beginning to end, as one long narrative. What is the lesson gleaned from this fact?
The Sfas Emes explains that throughout the thirty six years that elapse in the parsha, Yaakov's thoughts and mindset was connected back to his home. There was no gap, despite the time and distance, between his home and how he conducted himself out in the world. The lessons and teachings of Yitzchak and Rivka remained at his core throughout his journey and experiences with Lavan. The Zohar compares this to someone who descends into a well but makes sure to tie a rope around him and at the top of the well to ensure that he knows the way back to the top. The lessons from his home and parents remained the lighthouse which guided him through the whole parsha.
When we send our children to camp, Israel, or even a day out with friends, we wonder to ourselves if our children will be making the correct and reasonable decisions. We wonder if the lessons and values we hopefully have inculcated in our children have indeed taken root and will sprout within our children when they are away from our home and direct influence. Have we become the lighthouse for our children which guides them even from afar?
This message is hinted to as well in many of the halachos of Chanukah which are under the heading of "ner ish u'Baiso,” a light for each person and home. The lights of Chanukah and the message of living the Torah life even within the darkness of galus must resonate, first and foremost, in ourselves, then within the walls of our own home. In order for our dedication to Torah study and avodah to ignite within our children, it must be Ner Ish U'Baiso. Our internal zeal and dedication to Torah must become a tangible model for our children. Our homes must be a place where Torah is studied and supported with the warmth and dedication to inspire our children so that even when they are away from the shelter of their own homes they are still guided by the lessons and values learned.
Unfortunately, many in society attempt to break away from their past and the lessons imparted by their parents. They attempt to break the bond with the values of their parents and homes. The lesson from Vayaytzay and from Chanukah teaches us as parents to be the light, the guide, and the inspiration so that wherever they may be they are tooled with inspiration and models formed by their parents.
