It is easier to perceive error than to find truth, for the former lies on the surface and is easily seen, while the latter lies in the depth, where few are willing to search for it. -Johann von Goethe

When one reads parts of the story of Isaac, there is a sense of déjà vu (Genesis Chapter 26). Among the scenes which seem repetitive, Abraham dug wells around the area of the Philistines. Isaac, his son, goes ahead and digs up the same wells. It is curious that after the death of Abraham, the Philistines had covered up those wells.

The Sfat Emet in 5635 (1875) takes a more metaphorical look at the story and explains that the “wells” were sources of spiritual light and truth. When the Philistines “covered” them, it created a distance and enmity between them and Isaac to the point where they banished Isaac from their midst. However, once Isaac “uncovered” these mystical “wells”, holiness and light was able to flow once again from them. The glory of God became revealed and the Philistines once again saw the truth. The king of the Philistines then goes with a delegation to Isaac and submits himself, seeking a peace accord with the son of Abraham, clearly exhibiting fear of Isaac.

May our own digging for the truth reveal light, holiness, strength and peace.

Shabbat Shalom,

Ben-Tzion

Dedication

To Hillel Neuer of UN Watch who incessantly calls out the truth against the lies of many in the United Nations.