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a simple and momentary purpose. Our possessions are here for us to use
for just a brief amount of time, and have no everlasting value of their own.
When it comes to spiritual acquisitions, we should try to appreciate their
eternal existence. This is why Yaakov built a house for himself and his
family (as the word ‘house’ denotes a lasting edifice). For his animals, a
sukkah was enough. This contrasts greatly with Yaakov’s brother, Eisav.
He also built himself a house, desiring it to be a lasting edifice. But a
rasha does not realize that evil has no permanence. The only thing that
has any enduring properties is Torah.
Our entrance into the next world is an invitation from the Al-mighty to
join Him at ‘home.’ It is our permanent place of residence. Money cannot
buy an entry visa, nor can we take our material possessions with us. The
only thing that we can take ‘possession’ of and cross the ‘Great Divide’
with, is good deeds.
“Then Yaakov kissed Rachel; and he raised his
voice and wept”
(Bereishit 29:11)
