* Translation by Yehoshua Siskin
We are all familiar with moments lacking in tranquility when the soul is not at peace, when we cannot find ourselves and we lose our way in the world.
The Torah portion we will read this coming Shabbat describes Yosef Hatzadik and the jealousy of his brothers that lead to hatred and strife between them. Yosef was the son of Rachel, Yaakov’s deeply beloved wife, and so he receives preferential treatment among Yaakov’s sons after her death. Yosef is given a beautiful multi-colored coat by his father and, if this were not enough, repeats dreams to his brothers about their bowing down to him.
Later Yosef is sent to search for his brothers but cannot find them. But then someone approaches him as he wanders about and asks him a life-changing question: “What are you looking for?”
Rebbe Menachem Mendel of Kotzk said these words are addressed not only to Yosef but to everyone of us: What are you looking for? Do you feel you have lost your way? Do you feel that your present situation could be better? First, ask yourself where you want to go. For just one moment, search within yourself. Can you articulate what you really want? What is the purpose of your life? What is your direction and your goal?
Yosef gives a most profound answer: “I am looking for my brothers.” Yosef is looking for the closeness that only brothers — or a sense of brotherhood — can provide. This is not just a fleeting desire but a lifetime quest. When there are disputes among the brothers, Yosef only wants there to be peace, mutual understanding, and love between them. And as a result of his efforts, Yosef Hatzadik will ultimately succeed in bringing his brothers together.
What are you looking for? What are we looking for? These questions are vital for each and every one of us on both a personal and national level. When we understand what we really want and to what we aspire, the way forward will finally become clear.
B’hatzlacha.
