Angels & Ladders

“Jacob dreamed, and behold—a ladder stood on the ground, its top reaching heaven, with angels of G-d ascending and descending on it” (Genesis 28:12).

After provoking Esau’s anger over the blessings, Jacob fled to Laban’s home. Rebecca surely warned him that her brother was a notorious deceiver. Aware of the challenges ahead, Jacob paused to pray at the holy site of the future Temple Mount.

There he dreamed of angels moving up and down a ladder reaching heaven. Commentators explain that this vision assured him: though he was leaving the holiness of his parents’ home for a corrupt environment, he would not be alone. A ladder connects heaven and earth; angels carry out G-d’s will everywhere, and Divine protection follows a person wherever they go. Nothing is random—every event is directed from Above.

Before the Baal Shem Tov, Divine Providence was understood to guide each creature and event for its own sake. The Baal Shem Tov taught further that every detail is also part of a vast, unified plan—like pieces of a cosmic puzzle. Though our minds cannot grasp how countless events across history form one divine design, that design exists.

G-d governs the world, yet gives us control over the choices in our own lives. He revealed His way of guiding creation so we can mirror it. Instead of choosing based on short-term convenience, we are meant to look at the bigger picture. Our long-term purpose should shape even small decisions: Does this action move me toward my mission? Is it a piece of the life-puzzle I am meant to build?

Shabbat Shalom!

Candle lighting time (NYC): Friday, 4:12 PM