Bible

Isaac and Rebecca provide us with two models of parenting--love dependent on a specific interaction and love that is unconditional.

God and Abram's covenant between the pieces raises issues of conditionality and obligation still relevant today.

Jacob's death provokes the latent fear in Joseph's brothers that Joseph bears a grudge against them and the desire to make peace with him.

Joseph serves as a model of creating opportunities for repentance and forgiveness.

Joy and laughter, often embodied in children, can help us begin to live again after extreme disappointment and tragedy.

Like Jacob's struggle, each of us must recognize, confront and struggle with our darker side.

Adam's naming of the animals raises complex issues, including the deeper meanings of our names.

The complex character of Joseph raises questions about what it means to be righteous.

Joseph reminds us that our perspective of reality is limited compared to the ultimate meaning that God perceives.

The descent into Egypt and Jacob's death left his family in an alien culture, forced to find a context for their traditions within themselves.

Jacob's decision to bless each of his sons individually highlights the need to balance unity with diversity.

By judging others favorably and responding to them with kindness, we add holiness to the world.