Why do we commemorate Yaakov's struggle with the angel by simply refraining from eating the "gid hanasheh"?
Parashat Vayishlach tells of Yaakov's successful confrontation with the mysterious attacker. Recall that Yaakov suffered a serious wound to the leg over the course of the contest, which we commemorate, as the Torah writes, through the prohibition of eating the "gid hanasheh" (thigh muscle) of an animal.
Rav Moshe Feinstein raises an interesting question: why do we commemorate this miracle of Yaakov's victory over the angel through inaction, by refraining from a given activity? In two weeks we will celebrate the Hasmonean defeat over the Greeks through the observance of Channuka. This observance entails the recitation of hallel, lighting candles to publicize the miracle, and modes of festivity. On Purim, too, our commemoration of the miracle requires several rituals and active festivity. Why do we commemorate Yaakov's struggle with the angel by simply refraining from eating the "gid hanasheh"?
Rav Moshe suggests that this mitzvah commemorates a specific kind of miracle: overcoming challenges and trying circumstances. Although Rav Moshe does not elaborate, he implies that Yaakov's wrestle with the mysterious assailant symbolizes his struggles in exile and ultimate triumph. This type of miracle warrants a less enthusiastic commemoration. We pray every day (towards the end of "birkhot ha-shachar"), "Do not bring us to tests." We much prefer not to confront exile and grueling conditions, even if we eventually overcome these obstacles. Our ultimate triumph over adversity and trying times deserves commemoration, but a much different type of commemoration than other miracles involving the overthrow of our enemies. Yaakov's successful struggle with the angel is thus commemorated passively and somewhat subtly, through restrain and inaction, rather than active celebration.