In this week’s Parsha (32:25) we are told that Jews are forbidden to eat the Gid HaNashe (Sciatic Nerve). Why? I heard from Rav Yitzchok Fingerer shlita, that the Chizkuni writes that this is so because Yaakov’s children left him alone. They should have accompanied and sought to protect their father. They are blamed for the injury that Yaakov incurred. They should have accompanied and sought to protect their father.
They are blamed for the injury that Yaakov incurred on his way back. When we leave people alone, we leave them vulnerable and susceptible to harm and danger. Everyone needs companionship and care. Everyone needs to be looked after and cared for. We should all try to think about ways we can be there for others and make sure that no one feels lonely or helpless.
In addition, the Maayana Shel Torah points out an incredible idea. He says that it was only because Yaakov was alone that the Sar shel Eisav (Evil Inclination of Eisav), was able to attack him. When a person is in the company of others and surrounded by positive influences, the Yetzer Hara cannot easily grab hold of him. However, when a person is alone, despair can more easily set in, and the person can become easy prey for the Yetzer Hara to destroy him.
I would like to share with you a story that I saw in sefer Lilmod Ulelamed: One night, the Chazon Ish was on his way home returning from a late wedding. As he was on his way, he saw a young boy walking apprehensively in the street. The boy looked frightened and nervous. Right away, the Chazon Ish realized that the reason the young boy was nervous was because he was afraid to walk home by himself so late at night. Right away, the Chazon Ish walked over to the boy and accompanied him all the way to his home – even though it was quite a distance away from his own home. The Chazon Ish made sure that the boy felt comfortable.
Even though he was the Gadol Hador (Greatest Rabbi of the generation), the Chazon Ish didn’t feel that it was beneath his dignity to help this boy! By the Chazon Ish, every single moment of his was precious but he still took the time to help the boy and escorted him home.
This story demonstrates the great importance of helping others. Let’s all strive to always be in a good and positive setting together with caring people as a surefire way to keep the Yetzer Hara far away! Let’s all help and care for others. Let’s all think of ways to be there for others and make sure that no one feels lonely or helpless.
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