Embracing 'Small Vessels': Lessons from Yaakov's Return and Appreciation
By: Rabbi Chanania Engelsman
We have reached the climax of the story of the twins Yaakov and Esav. After running away for fear of Esav killing him, Yaakov is returning home with a large family, of eleven sons, a daughter as well as many servants and possessions. Still unsure of the reception he will receive, Yaakov prays to Hashem to be saved from Esav, his brother. He understood that this person he cared for, his own brother, was nonetheless still Esav, who was capable of harming him.
Yaakov comes up with a plan to split his camp in two. Whilst executing this plan he has a momentous encounter with an angel that culminates with Hashem changing his name to Yisrael. The name by which the nation becomes known, the children of Yisrael.
This encounter begins with Yaakov being left himself. We are told by Rashi that he went back alone for “small vessels”. I believe this leaves us to ask why is he going back for small vessels and why is he alone?
Rabbi Farhi explains that we have to learn to appreciate what we have, even or especially the small things, Yaakov had learnt to be grateful for even the smallest things in his life. Last time he was crossing this river he had nothing, only “his staff” and now he had a lot more, two entire camps. He nonetheless was still able to appreciate the small things he had. Unfortunately, it’s often those who have had nothing who can appreciate each and every small thing.
Yaakov also understood that this was something that he had to do himself. To ensure that he truly appreciate every gift that he had been given no matter how small. If it is really important you would do it yourself. Yaakov wanted to make sure he could appreciate what he had and that was something only he could do.
If the last month and a half has taught us anything, we have to appreciate what we have. We need to work out what our “small vessels” are. What are the small things in our life that we would like to appreciate and make sure that we make the most of our time with them.