The name of this week’s Torah portion is Vayechi, which means “and he lived.” Ironically, it focuses more on Jacob’s death than his life.

This paradox reminds me of an earlier Torah portion in Genesis, Chayei Sarah, meaning “the life of Sarah,” which begins with her death.

Through these two narratives the Torah teaches a vital lesson about life and death: It is our lives that should define us, not our deaths. We aspire to be remembered for how we lived, the people we touched, our achievements, and even our efforts in the face of failure.

This message is particularly resonant at this time of year, when the media highlight lists of celebrities who have passed away in the last twelve months. This can lead to a misconception that only the lives of the famous are worthy of honor.

However, this is far from the truth. Today, I had the privilege of accompanying a woman as she bid farewell to her father, who died at the age of 104. His was a life well-lived and filled with love. She cherishes him deeply and feels she is better because of his influence.

The importance of living a meaningful life is underscored this year as we recall the people murdered in Israel by Hamas terrorists on October 7. My hope for them is to be remembered not for the tragedy of their deaths, but for the simple yet profound fact that they lived.

I wish for their families and friends to remember them for who they were in life and the happiness they brought.

Unlike our biblical forebears Jacob and Sarah, many of those who died had not lived long lives. Yet, I firmly believe that every life holds meaning and purpose, no matter how brief. We each create ripples through time and space, affecting others in ways we may never fully realize.

Their lives have undoubtedly impacted mine and countless others. May the days they lived and their memories forever be a blessing.