RAV KOOK ON Parshat Vayetze

Translated and abridged by Rabbi Chanan Morrison Parshat Vayetze Jacob did not have an easy life. He loved Rachel, but was tricked into marrying Leah. And when he finally married Rachel, his home was plagued with jealousy between the two sisters. This strife was not limited to Jacob's household. It continued on in future generations: in the struggle between Rachel's son Joseph and the sons of Leah; and in the rivalry between Saul, descended from Rachel, and David, a descendant of Leah. Why did Jacob need to endure so many obstacles when setting up his family — complications that would have such a long-lasting impact on future generations of the Jewish people?