Dear Temple Emanu-El Families,
In this week’s Torah portion, Chayyei Sarah, Abraham sends his servant to find a wife for Isaac. Arriving at a well, the servant prays for a sign: may the woman who offers water to both him and his camels be the one intended for Isaac.
Rebecca does exactly that. After giving the servant a drink, she offers to draw water for his camels until they have finished drinking. She hurries to empty her jar and runs back to the well (Genesis 24:14–20). Her kindness, initiative, and willingness to care for others reveal her character.
Rebecca notices needs beyond the request in front of her. The servant asks for a drink for himself. She sees the thirsty animals, too, and takes responsibility for their care. She gives her time and effort without being asked.
Our Jewish tradition makes caring for animals a daily responsibility. The Talmud teaches that we must feed the animals in our care before eating ourselves (Berakhot 40a). This teaching draws on Deuteronomy 11:15, which mentions providing grass for animals before describing people eating their fill. Our own needs matter, and so do the needs of those who depend on us.
Whether we have pets at home or enjoy watching birds and squirrels in Central Park, we can help our children practice this care. Filling a water bowl, remembering a pet’s mealtime, giving wildlife space, and keeping our parks clean are small actions that express our values.
Rebecca’s example also asks us to think about how we care for people. Do we notice when someone needs help? Do we step forward without waiting to be asked? How do our everyday choices show our children what matters to our family?
Around your table this week, consider: What role do animals play in our lives? What is one way we can follow Rebecca’s example and make kindness part of our daily routine?
Shabbat Shalom,
Mike Witman
Senior Director of Lifelong Learning
