Vayishlach (32:29)- Vayomer lo Yaakov yeiomer od shimcha, ki im Yisrael ki sarisa im Elokim v'im anashim.

After battling the angel, Yaakov receives his new name: Yisrael. What is the fundamental difference between the two names? Also, why does Yaakov vacillate between these two names, while Avraham, after receiving a new name, never went back to the old Avram?

The saintly Kozhnitzer Maggid suggests that the change from Avram to Avraham was quantitatively slight - featuring only one additional letter. Also, qualitatively, it was a total upgrade. The past name would no longer provide us with any additional insight that could not already be gleaned from the name Avram. On the other hand, Yaakov and Yisrael are such distinct names that the appropriate lesson emerging from each name, needs to be preserved.

The Lubavitcher Rebbe passionately argues that each and every one of us needs to live as both Yaakov and as Yisrael. Yaakov is the name that indicates "עקבות ומרמות"- cunning. It is the mode he used to acquire his birthright. Much of life necessitates our creativity, our ability to bend and twist to solve unique problems. Sometimes we are forced to wear different hats for different people. Sometimes we are asked to hold back. Sometimes we are asked to be bigger and louder than we usually are. Different situations require variant attitudes and approaches. But then there are other occasions, argues the Lubavitcher Rebbe, when we are to be Yisrael. Yisrael is the name of high station. Sometimes we must operate at our purest without regard for consequences, failures and criticisms. The Yisrael moment knows only the high path.

Both names are vital. Both names are truth.