Ki Teze 5785

Just the other day, Lisa and I called each of our grandchildren and their parents as they began their first day of school. One was starting first grade, while the other two were off to their first day of preschool. Our grandson eagerly shared his excitement about entering “one of the grades with a number.” Our granddaughters, meanwhile, lit up with joy at seeing us on FaceTime, smiling and laughing as they delighted in simply reacting to whatever we said. I imagine many of you have had similar conversations with children, grandchildren, or even great-grandchildren during this season of new beginnings.

Our parashah this week, Ki Teitzei, offers a poignant reminder about how we relate to our children. The Torah presents the case of a father with two wives—one loved, the other unloved—and an eldest son born to the latter. The question arises: may the father disregard this child’s rights of inheritance in favor of the son of the beloved wife? The Torah is explicit: he may not. The firstborn, regardless of circumstance, is entitled to his rightful portion.

On the surface, this is a law about inheritance. Yet beneath it lies a deeper teaching about parenting and relationships. Human nature may incline us toward favoritism, but the Torah demands fairness, dignity, and respect. Every child is unique, and every child deserves love that is not diminished by circumstance.

Of course, parents know that loving each child equally does not mean loving them identically. Some children need more attention, others more independence; some seek constant reassurance, while others flourish quietly. True love recognizes the particular needs of each child and responds with sensitivity and care.

As we stand at the threshold of the High Holy Days, this message speaks to our relationship with God. Just as parents strive to meet the different needs of their children, so too does God meet each of us where we are. Some of us seek comfort, others guidance, forgiveness, or renewal. God does not respond with a single measure for all, but with love and care uniquely suited to each of us.

Perhaps this is the greatest inheritance we could hope for in the year ahead: that each of us may be blessed with a life of meaning, fullness, and joy—embraced always by God’s love.

Am Yisrael Chai!!!

Bring them home now!!!

Shabbat Shalom,

Rabbi K