When Rebecca sees Isaac, she slides off the camel, indicating her readiness for marriage. But it is when Isaac hears of Rebecca’s gracious acts, the Torah explains, Isaac falls in love.
We’re accustomed to the idea of “love at first sight.” There is a certain magnetism in physical attraction. However, the Torah reveals additional layers of chemistry that exist outside of appearance. Someone’s compassionate, kind character reflects an unparalleled beauty; a beauty that unlocks another’s soul and causes love to burst forth.
We don’t engage in acts of chesed (lovingkindness) to attract another human being. But we can follow the Torah’s example and reframe our conditions for partnership. Is attraction based solely on the physical? Or is chemistry based on something deeper? What would happen if we first examined someone’s character and only then added physical attraction to the equation?
Perhaps “seeing or hearing about” good character would even enhance physical chemistry.
This is the first time love is mentioned in the Torah. Let’s not be in hasty in how we decide on a first, second, or third date. Get to know someone’s soul. You might find love is closer than you think.
Shabbat Shalom
Rabbi Nicole Guzik is senior rabbi at Sinai Temple. She can be reached at her Facebook page at Rabbi Nicole Guzik or on Instagram @rabbiguzik. For more writings, visit Rabbi Guzik’s blog section from Sinai Temple’s website.
