Yaakov Asked to Dwell in Peace
Rabi Acha said: When the tzaddikim are at ease and ask for tranquility in this world, the satan comes and counters their request, saying: Is it not enough that they will receive their reward in Olam Haba, that they ask for peace in this world [as well]?!
Yaakov Avinu suffered much because of Eisav and Lavan and the events involving his daughter Dina. Then, after all these tzaros were behind him and he finally experienced some peace – he asked for continued peace in this world, and the satan jumped in to bring more anguish upon him. Thus, immediately after it says “Vayeishev Yaakov,” implying that Yaakov had a measure of peace, the Torah relates Yosef’s dreams and his subsequent sale into slavery. (Adapted from Bereishis Rabbah 84:1)
The Good Will Come on Its Own
It seems strange that Hashem was “angry” at a tzaddik for asking for peace in this world. Why shouldn’t a tzaddik enjoy some fruits of his Torah and mitzvos in this world as well? I heard it said that it would not have been wrong for Yaakov to desire peace of mind and serenity, but the problem was that he asked for it. Hashem may give a person serenity and goodness in life, but he should not ask for it and pursue it. (Harav Alschich)
