1.   All created beings have various aspects. Being the 24th of Kislev this Shabbos includes the theme of Erev Chanukah. TheMeiri says the war ended on the 24th and the Rambam maintains that it ended on the 25th of Kislev. Chassidus explains that the two stages of revelation of the immanent light — victory and miracle — could also have been generated on the 25th; this reconciles the Rambam. We must increase holiness to the outside.

2.   The name Vayeishev seems to misrepresent the contents of this portion. Yaakov desired to dwell in ease, but it was not yet to be. The additional suffering brought in its wake a greater tranquility. The Jews had to remain in Egypt long enough to leave with great substance. The yetzer hora might scare us: wanting salvation invites pain! Not so. Want, pray, demand Mashiach Now.

3.   In explaining the birth of Peretz and Zarach why does Rashi tell us of the sinful acts of Achan, which took place hundreds of years later? Dinah and Leah both had noble intentions when they “went out.” Dinah wanted to reach out to the local girls and bring them back to the right track.