As a rule, the Torah delineates a new weekly section with a recognizable spacing pattern that indicates the beginning of a new Sedrah. Yet in this week’s Sedrah, Vayechi, there is no spacing structure marking the end of the previous Sedrah (Vayigash). Thus, this week’s reading is a run-on with the last sentence of the previous Sedrah.

This  ”closed Sedrah” portrays that after the death of  Yaacov the eyes and hearts of Klal Yisrael were closed because the Egyptian bondage began to oppress them. The fact that this Sedrah is closed teaches us not only were the hearts of Klal Yisrael closed, but also the very fountains of Torah were closed.

There is a reciprocal relationship between Klal Yisrael and Torah. When we are open to the Torah, the Torah is open to us. The wisdom of Torah flows into our hearts like a mighty river. If we are closed, the flow of Torah is blocked and obstructed – and we are cast in darkness.

When the illustrious Sage, the Ohr Sameach, could not understand a Torah concept, he would pray not for wisdom but for his heart to be filled with love for the Torah. He explained that when a baby cries, only his mother knows why he is crying – be it for bottle or bellyache. Her intense love for her baby gives her an extra dimension of sensitivity so that only she can interpret every cry.

In the same manner, if we will open our hearts to love the Torah we will have the responsiveness to understand the Torah’s most subtle message. Like a stream of light, the wisdom of  Torah will flow into our hearts (based on Da’as Torah of Rabenu Yerucham HaLevi).

Today: Place your hands on your heart and as you slowly spread your arms open envision you are opening up your heart to Torah.

Copyright © 2010 by Rabbi Zvi Miller and the Salant Foundation

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