The “Menorah Community” youth project of the Jewish Community of Dnipro, which has been actively developing thanks to the efforts of the Zislina family, held another men’s Torah class dedicated to the weekly portion of Chayei Sarah and to the question of how to learn to understand people, to distinguish genuine human qualities from outward impression, and to make the right choice in relationships with those around us.
The class was conducted by Reb Zalman Rabinovich, who turned to the story of Eliezer, who set out in search of a wife for Yitzchak, the son of the Patriarch Avraham. The theme of the gathering was the question “Can you understand people?”, which enabled the participants to look at the ancient story as a source of answers to the questions that arise in modern life as well.
Special attention was given to how Eliezer was able to recognize in Rivka the qualities that made her worthy to become Yitzchak’s wife. When he asked the girl for water, she not only gave him drink but also herself offered to water his camels. This seemingly simple deed revealed her kindness, generosity, and readiness to care for others, not limiting herself to what she had been directly asked. It was precisely these qualities, manifested in a concrete deed, that proved far more important than the first impression or outward attractiveness.
The story of Rivka became an occasion for a discussion about how easy it is to be mistaken about people by trusting outward impression, and how important it is to learn to see what truly defines a person’s character. Can one judge a person by their words, or do their deeds say far more about them? What should one pay attention to when choosing friends, entrusting someone with an important matter, or making decisions on which the future depends? The example of Eliezer reminds us that the Torah teaches us to evaluate people first and foremost by their deeds, their attitude toward those around them, and their readiness to selflessly help others.
“The story of Eliezer and Rivka shows how important it is to be able to notice in people genuine kindness, which is manifested not in beautiful words but in concrete deeds,” noted Levi Zislina, director of the “Menorah Community” project. “Such lessons help young people find in the Torah and the teachings of Chassidus guideposts for everyday life, to consciously choose their surroundings, and to build relationships on trust and mutual responsibility. We are grateful for the opportunity to carry out this important work within the united and cohesive Jewish Community of Dnipro under the leadership of Chief Rabbi Shmuel Kaminezki.”
