BS’D
We are called ‘B’nei Yisrael’ to identify with our nation’s purpose in this world. B’nei Yisrael defines a people following in the footsteps of Yaakov Avinu ztk’l, the shalem [whole} and tamim {perfected} of our Avot. Yaakov Avinu was originally called Yaakov but later Hashem named him Yisrael.
Many of us may have experienced moments in our lives where we yearned for greatness beyond our physical limits and base drives and became frustrated at our limitations. The foremost disciple of Rebbe Nachman ztk’l, Rebbe Natan ztk’l teaches that Yaakov Avinu’s descent from Be’er Sheva to Charan is a parable for the soul’s descent from the higher realms into the lower world. On his way to Charan, Yaakov famously dreamed of angels ascending and descending a ladder. This teaches that even as we dwell below, we can still ascend to great heights beyond this world.
The dream also teaches that life consists of rise and fall. Descent is an indispensable part of ascent. Understanding this fundamental principle allows us to grow from our experiences and downfalls and build on knowledge we accumulate through life and let go of mistaken beliefs. It teaches that we can celebrate the downward as an opportunity to rise up again, to embrace the whole self not merely the positive experiences.
This teaching applies to many instances in life. For example, a mature adult will let go of their childish beliefs and dreams. Though it may feel scary or lonely, ‘letting go’ of unhealthy old habits and beliefs actually is a step forwards. And by embracing our ‘negative’ character traits we are seeing them as providing us with a positive impetus to grow and thus accepting all parts of ourselves.
We are called B’nei Yisrael. We are a nation who rise and fall, build and dismantle, move forwards and sometimes backwards. No matter what the direction, we are always moving, striving, growing in order to reach a place of perfection.
