Haftorah Vayeitzei: On a Purposeful Path

The Haftorah concludes with the powerful admonition: “כִּֽי־יְשָׁרִ֞ים דַּרְכֵ֣י ה’ וְצַדִּקִים֙ יֵ֣לְכוּ בָ֔ם וּפֹשְׁעִ֖ים יִכָּ֥שְׁלוּ בָֽם׃” — For the ways of Hashem are just; the righteous will walk in them, but sinners will stumble on them.

The Gemara in Horayot (10b) offers a profound interpretation of this verse. According to Rabbah Bar Bar Channah in the name of Rabbi Yochanan, the distinction between “righteous” and “sinners” here does not refer to completely different individuals performing opposing actions. Rather, it refers to two people carrying out the exact same mitzvah. For example, both may roast a Korban Pesach. One does so with the intent of fulfilling a mitzvah, placing himself in the category of “the righteous will walk in them,” while the other does so simply to satisfy his physical craving, falling under “sinners will stumble on them.”

This teaching raises an essential question: why does intent matter so much, especially if the outward action is identical? The Abarbanel explains that fulfilling Hashem’s commandments goes beyond mechanics; it requires a mindful and heartfelt connection. Carrying out the directives of G-d demands not only physical action but also spiritual intent, kavannah. It is our inner attitude that transforms actions into meaningful expressions of devotion.

In these days of struggle and challenge, may we strive to walk in the paths of the righteous, performing each action with care and devotion. Let us pray that our collective efforts and heartfelt intentions bring merit to our people and strength to those fighting for our safety, paving the way for peace and redemption.