Yaakov said that with his staff, he crossed the Jordan. The Midrash, quoted by Rashi, tells us that Yaakov used the staff to split the waters of the Jordan river and cross through (much as Eliyahu and Elisha did, using Eliyahu’s cloak to part the waters).
Rashi’s first comment was the simple meaning, that all Yaakov had was his stick, as we know that Elifaz robbed Yaakov of all his possessions in fulfillment of his father’s command to kill Yaakov. Why then, does Rashi mention the Midrashic view, when he generally sticks to poshut shat, the simple meaning?
The Baal HaTurim says the word ‘makli,’ meaning “my staff,” has the same numerical value as the word ‘Yaakov.’ This implies Yaakov meant he simply had his body and nothing else.
The purpose of a staff is to support one when he is unsteady, or perhaps when trying to climb or descend on uneven terrain. It helps him remain upright.
Hashem imbues each of us with the abilities we need to succeed in our life’s missions. Forget about other people, opportunities, finances, and the rest. Within each of us lies the strength and ability to follow our path and lift ourselves up, with Hashem’s help.
Yaakov now reflected on how it seemed he was so bereft, but in retrospect he recognizes that he was able to achieve all he had, despite starting from scratch.
This may be why Rashi had to mention the Midrash, because it is so integral to understanding what he had to start with.
Thought of the week:
Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things.
