5786/2025
Parashat Chayei Sarah opens by enumerating the lifespan of Sarah Imeinu: “Va’Yihu Chayei Sarah Meah Shanah V’Esrim Shanah V’Sheva Shanim Shnei Chayei Sarah”, “Sarah’s lifetime—the span of Sarah’s life—came to one hundred and twenty-seven years” (BeReishit 23:1). The Torah’s repetition of “years” seems to be redundant, and this bothers Rashi. He famously comments that each stage of Sara’s life was filled with its own quality of righteousness: “At age 100, she was as sinless as a 20 year old, and at 20 as beautiful as a 7 year old.” Each part of her life had its own integrity and purpose.
As the Parashah continues on, we see Avraham Avinu purchase the Ma’arat HaMachpeilah as a burial spot for Sarah, and juxtaposed with this is the narrative of the search for Yitzchak's wife. But this isn’t just a coincidence. Chazal teaches that Avraham’s actions reveal a deep understanding of continuity: Even while mourning for his wife, Avraham still focuses on building the next generation.
When Eliezer goes to Charan, he davens that Hashem should give him a sign, that the woman who will marry Yitzchak will water the camels. This clearly exhibits Chesed, the defining quality of Avraham’s household. Rivkah’s immediate response shows that she possesses this attribute.
Chazal tells us that when Rivkah entered Sarah’s tent, the same miracles that marked Sarah’s presence returned. This moment displays spiritual continuity: The Kedushah that once filled Sarah’s home now fills Rivkah’s. Sarah’s legacy of faith and kindness didn’t die with her. Rather, it lives on into the next generation.
“Chayei Sarah” bears her name because it demonstrates how her life continues with those who follow in her footsteps. A true life is not measured simply in years, but by one’s lasting influence of actions and values.
In our own lives, Chayei Sarah teaches that each stage of life has its own potential, which we can live with purpose, and transform everyday acts into expressions of Chesed and Emunah. The Torah’s message is timeless: A righteous life inspires others long after it is over.