A touch of red

Naturally, we are most interested in Ya'akov, seeing as we are all descended from him. The Talmud, and most Jewish tradition, presents Esav as a mean, dumb, useless appendage to the story. But, if we have no use for Esav, why does the Torah bother to devote a whole chapter (36), 43 whole verses, to what happened to him, who his children and grandchildren were and so on? 

 I cannot tell you how many times I have heard observant Jews bad mouth non Jews. Not all, mind you. Most simply ignore their existence and achievements, even as they benefit from them. But some, usually those who are newly observant, seem to think that saying bad things about the goyim is the 11th commandment. I had to sit through many Shabbatot, listening to hate speak about strangers whose only crime was a different skin color, being born in a different country or attending a church instead of a synagogue. Thank G-d I also know some people (most notably, an orthodox rabbi) who do not hesitate to give credit where credit is due and to acknowledge that people are to be judged as individuals and not by one's prejudices about the group they happen to belong to. 

 Maybe Beresheet 36 was included for the hate mongers. To remind them that Esav was also Yitzchak's son, and as such, deserves respect (however begrudging.) True, the commentators tore chapter 36 apart, using every word in it to prove that Esav and his descendants were evil and corrupt; but the fact remains that the Torah saw fit to include his history within its holy pages.

Or, possibly, these were included to remind Esav's descendents that they are related to the very people they are constantly trying to destroy. To show them that we carry them no grudge and are more than willing to live in peace as one big happy family ("The Humans".)

I'd like to think that this is a reminder to both of Yitzchak's sons that they are both from the important lineage of Avraham and as such, they should learn to live in harmony, each in his own place. Just before chapter 36, the Torah says that Yotzchak died and "his sons, Esav and Ya'akov, buried him". Together. As brothers. With Esav mentioned first as befits the firstborn even if he never got his firstborn's share. Esav moved away because there wasn't enough room in Kna'an for both their households. True, he had various other reasons (say the commentators), but chapter 36 verse 7 states clearly that this was his reason.

Can we live in peace? Probably not, based on history. Can we try and point out to Edom that he is a brother? Not as long as we hate his guts and don't even bother to hide it. 

Meanwhile, Edom is here to stay. And if he disappears, we will be left alone with the descendants of Yishma'el. Think about that for a while.

Here is a little salad that has a touch of red (Edom) in it. It is a good mixture of old world, new world, far east, middle east and the tropics, as far as the ingredients list is concerned. If this mixture can create something so wonderful, don't you think humanity can do it, too?

 

Autumn Arugula Salad with Caramelized Squash, Spiced Pecans and Pomegranate Ginger Vinaigrette

2 tablespoons oil
1 acorn squash, unpeeled, sliced in 1/2-inch thick rounds and seeds removed
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepped
2 teaspoons brown sugar
1/2 cup whole pecans, chopped
1/4 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
6 cups baby arugula
1 avocado, sliced thinly or cubed
Seeds from 1 pomegranate
1 seedless cucumber, halved and sliced thinly (peeling is optional)

pomegranate ginger vinaigrette
1/3 cup pomegranate juice
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
1 garlic clove, freshly grated
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/3 cup olive oil

Sprinkle salt and pepper over the squash slices and cook them in oil, in a large skillet, over medium high heat for about 5 minutes per side or until golden all over, adding the brown sugar about halfway through to help the squash caramelize. 

In a small saucepan toast the pecans over low heat until they are slightly golden and fragrant, stirring and shaking the pan as they toast, for about 5 minutes. Toss them with the pumpkin pie spice.

In a large salad bowl mix the arugula with salt and pepper. Add the avocado, pomegranate seeds, cucumber, pecans and squash pieces.

Whisk together pomegranate juice, vinegar, ginger, garlic, salt and pepper. Stream in the olive oil while constantly whisking until the dressing comes together. Toss with the salad.


serves 6 



Sowing hatred only leads to more hatred all around. Aren't we supposed to set an example?