Shabbat Table Topics – Parashat Vayishlach/0/en
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Shabbat Table Topics – Parashat Vayishlach
Shimon and Levi on Trial
How do you evaluate Shimon and Levi's slaughter of the city of Shekhem? Should their actions be justified as an appropriate avenging of their sister's honor or be condemned as overly harsh and cruel? Alternatively, was the deed perhaps undesirable, but nonetheless a necessary response to the rape?
- With which of the above do you agree? See Sin and Slaughter of Shekhem and debate the various possibilities at your Shabbat table.
- The story raises the question of the relative benefits of policies of restraint versus active deterrence, the morality of collective punishment versus targeted killings, and the appropriate response to the use of human shields. Discuss these issues with your family both as they relate to the actions of the brothers and to contemporary controversies regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Esav: Friend or foe?
The parashah opens with Yaakov fearful that Esav is coming to attack with 400 men. When the two actually reunite, however, Esav greets him with a hug and kiss. Was the change of heart the result of Yaakov's efforts at appeasement, or is it possible that Yaakov's original evaluation of Esav's intent was erroneous and that Esav had already forgiven his brother? What is it that enables people to forgive and forget?
- Compare Radak and Rashbam. With whom do you agree?
- Rashbam goes as far as to suggest that Yaakov's unwarranted fear of his brother and attempts to flee were punished. What textual support can you bring for such a position? See Wrestling With Angels and Men.
- Rashbam is consistent in viewing Esav as a neutral, rather than wicked figure. Do you agree with such a portrait, or do you find the evil Esav of Midrash to be a more accurate description? See A Portrait of Esav for elaboration.
