Vayishlach

                                               Instructions on how to win the lottery 

At the start of this week’s Parshah Jacob is concerned about an upcoming reunion with his brother Esav who wanted to murder him the last time they met. The Ramban states this Parshah gives us the template for political science. We should make diplomatic attempts (Jacob sends gifts), we should prepare our camp for war (Jacob splits his camp in two) and we should pray (Jacob exhorts G-D for help).

Why does Jacob have to do all this preparation if G-D can help him? Doesn’t this show a lack of faith that his prayer will be answered?

“G-D helps those who help themselves”- Benjamin Franklin

“ You can’t rely on G-D for anything, he practically told me so himself”- Bender

Success in this world is like sailing.

If we put up our sails, (representing our personal effort in this world) and there is no wind (representing Divine assistance) we will not move. No matter what we do G-D must assist us or our efforts will not get off the ground. However if we do not put up our sails, no matter how much wind we get the boat will only move slightly because we have not created a vessel, or receptacle to harness G-D's blessing.

Faith in G-D is not a big deal She is all powerful. Faith in yourself, that is something amazing.

In order to win the lottery you have to buy a ticket.