Maaseh Avot Siman LeBanim? An Analysis of Yaakov's Actions in His Reunion with Eisav

When instructing those bringing the gift Yaakov refers to Esav as אדני, "my master", many times, and bows to him many times. How much of what Yaakov did are we supposed to emulate and how much of what Yaakov did do chazal view as going too far?

Why is Yaakov's approach to dealing with Lavan so different than his approach to dealing with Esav?

How Yaakov's interaction with Esav impacts on Rebbe Yehuda HaNasi's relationship with Antoninus.

What can Yaakov's' approach teach us about how to deal with other nations in our time?

Download the Mekorot


Delivered at the OU Israel Center, January 23rd, 2019 (17 Shevat 5779)