This week we read about Jacob settling in the land of his forefathers. Our sages comment that since Jacob wanted to dwell and live in tranquility with a life without challenges, G-d said “is it not enough that the righteous have the next world, that they also seek tranquility in this world too?
This small but powerful statement clarifies how our great sages understood the focus of life to be one of growth and achievement, not vacation and retirement.
While Jacob would undoubtedly have used a life of serenity to totally devote himself to his spiritual development, the greatness he achieved despite the challenges and troubles was much greater and more meaningful. As the sages in the Mishna say “the reward is commensurate to the challenges and pain,“ or to put it in today’s language “no pain no gain.“
So contentment and tranquility should not be the primary goals in life, since we were put here on earth to fulfill a purpose, and not to seek tranquility above challenges. However, if you happen to be blessed with a serene life, you may certainly enjoy it, and hopefully use it to enhance your spiritual self and not just your golf swing.
