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In our Torah portion this week, Parashat Chayei Sarah, we learn of the passing of our great, original matriarch. Sarah passes away at the age of 127 after a long, productive, and exemplary life. She single handedly defined the character of a Jewish woman and her influence is still keenly felt today, many centuries after her passing.
We also encounter the final stages in the life of Abraham, who passes away at the ripe old age of 175. Before his passing we find that Abraham has been deeply blessed by God. Chapter 24, verse 1 of the book of Genesis states the following, "Now Abraham was old, well on in years, and God blessed Abraham with everything."
What does it mean to be well on in years? Is this just another way of telling us that Abraham has become an elderly person? Perhaps. And yet it seems that the Torah here may be hinting at something very important. We need to remember that when someone reaches an older age this does not mean that their value or contribution begins to diminish. On the contrary, one who is well on in years may also be the one who is filled with wisdom and experience.
Older members of our community should be looked to for guidance and advice. They should be shown extreme respect and they should be revered for all that they have lived through and accomplished. We should feel thankful and express gratitude to older individuals for paving the way and for allowing the next generation to thrive based on the foundation which they created and nurtured.
Abraham and Sarah had so many blessings in their lives. And they brought so many blessings for all of us into this World. Just as they were beloved, respected, and appreciated in the later stages of their lives, we must be sure to treat the older generation in our community with the utmost care and respect. By doing so, may we continue to increase blessings for everyone!
Shabbat Shalom!
Cantor Zachary Konigsberg
cantorzkonigsberg@gmail.com
917-696-0749
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