A few weeks ago we had a normal Shabbat Program.  the teens lead a mini shabbat ceremony and I gave a D’var Torah.  Usually my D’var Torah’s message is lost as I deliver it in english.  However, this time I also brought up a topic that cultural seemed to go over almost everyone’s head.  The theme of Shabbat was Superheroes, so I made a comparison between the Parsha, Vayishlach, and comic book heroes, specifically Batman.  I thought it would make for a great D’var Torah…but not for my audience.  Here is what I spoke about:

Batman’s number one nemesis is Joker.  These two men have met multiple times in battle, but usually neither come out victorious.  They are well matched and very similar.  Both are shunned by society, never really accepted anywhere.  This dyad of superhero and evil villain is often represented in the aforementioned  structure.  Two characters paralleled in life.  Jacob and his brother Esau illustrate this point beautifully.  These twin brothers, who are fathers of separate nations appear as enemies (or at least not friendly) in this Parsha.  

Jacob encounters an angel with the spirit of Esau.  This “henchman” of Esau wrestles Jacob until daybreak.  Every villain has henchman that they send to do their biding and fight their battles.  And of course the superhero always emerges victorious when in an altercation with a henchman.  So who wins when Jacob and the angel fight?  (I think you know the answer) Jacob!  When he wins he is given a second name, Israel.  What does that sound like?  That’s right, a superhero name.  Superman and Clark Kent, Bruce Wayne and Batman, Jacob and Israel.  

Lastly at the end of the parsha Jacob’s daughter is kidnapped.  Simeon and Levi, acting as vigilantes, take Justice in their own hands and kill the men of the camp.  Who does that sound like?  Vigilante seeking Justice for their family.  Batman!  

Picture Descriptions:

Top.  Teens leading the Shabbat Ceremony

Bottom Left. My superhero costume.  Note the cape…it’s my tallis.  If you like that, check out this!

Bottom Middle. Alina dressed as a Superhero

Bottom Middle. Superhero themed games.