When reading, we naturally assume that a developed story is more significant than a minor detail. The Rabbinic sages are no different. They notice that the story of Abraham’s servant finding a wife for Isaac spans sixty-seven verses. On the other hand, daily commandments like those regarding Kosher slaughter and tfillin (albeit twice) are each discussed in only one verse. The rabbinic sages derive from this contrast that “the stories about the fathers are more precious than the commandments of their children.”

This profound teaching reminds us of what is too often forgotten in Judaism today. While the Jewish codes of law play an integral role in our lives, they are not the exclusive expression of our Judaism. Our Jewishness ultimately expresses itself in how we think, act, and make little decisions in our daily lives. It is a reflection of our complete character, not just assorted rules that we fulfill at particular points in our day. The narratives of our forefathers and foremothers are the ultimate examples of the complete Jewish life. For this reason their lives are more precious to God than the disjointed actions of their descendents.