Jews Should Keep a Low Profile

There is a very important lesson learned from Yakov Avinu in the instructions he gave his sons. When word spreads about a world wide famine, and it reaches Canaan, Yakov tells his family, למה תתראו, “Why should you be afraid?” Our commentators tell us that while others were without food, Yakov still had food and sustenance. He was telling his family that need not fear as long as they keep a low profile and not arouse the jealousy of their gentile neighbors. Yakov was giving instructions to all future generations as well as to his immediate family. When living among non-Jews, keep a low profile and don’t flaunt your wealth and prosperity. This will create negative feelings that could translate into bad tidings for Jews. This message is more relevant today than ever.