Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 9:27 mean when it says 'God shall enlarge Yefet'?
A: According to Rashi, 'God shall enlarge Yefet' refers to the descendants of Yefet (Japheth), who would become great nations with expansive territories. The Talmud (Megillah 9b) connects this to the beauty and wisdom of Greek culture (a descendant of Yefet), which was allowed to flourish under Divine providence.
Q: Why does the verse say Yefet 'shall dwell in the tents of Shem'?
A: The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 36:8) explains that this refers to the future relationship between the descendants of Yefet and Shem. While Yefet represents worldly wisdom and beauty (like Greek philosophy), Shem represents Torah wisdom. The verse hints that Yefet's gifts can find their proper place when used within the framework of Shem's spiritual legacy—the tents of Torah.
Q: What is the significance of Canaan being a servant to Shem and Yefet in this verse?
A: Rashi explains that since Ham (father of Canaan) sinned by disrespecting Noah, the curse fell upon his son Canaan. This verse establishes that Canaan's descendants would serve the descendants of Shem (like Israel) and Yefet (like the Persians and Greeks). The Ramban adds that this was a prophecy about future historical relationships between nations.
Q: How does Genesis 9:27 apply to Jewish life today?
A: The Talmud (Megillah 9b) derives from this verse that it is permissible to translate the Torah into Greek (a Yefet language), showing that worldly wisdom can serve Torah purposes. Today, this teaches that while we embrace Torah (Shem) as our primary focus, we can respectfully engage with secular knowledge (Yefet) when it enhances our understanding or service of Hashem.
Q: Why is this verse important in understanding Jewish history?
A: This verse is seen as prophetic about major historical dynamics. Shem's descendants include Avraham and the Jewish people, while Yefet's include powerful empires like Greece and Rome. The 'dwelling in tents of Shem' concept reflects how Torah has endured despite cultural influences, and Canaan's servitude foreshadowed later conquests of Canaanite lands by Israel (descendants of Shem).
Overview of the Verse (Bereishit 9:27)
The verse appears in the context of Noach's blessings to his sons after the flood. It contains three key elements: a blessing for Yefet, a connection between Yefet and Shem, and the subjugation of Kena'an.
Blessing for Yefet: "God shall enlarge Yefet"
Rashi explains that the term "יַפְתְּ" (Yaft) is related to the word "יֹפִי" (beauty), indicating that Yefet's descendants will be known for their aesthetic and cultural achievements. The Ramban adds that this refers to the expansion of Yefet's territory and influence, particularly through the Greek and Roman empires, which were known for their philosophy, art, and governance.
"He shall dwell in the tents of Shem"
Rashi interprets this as a prophecy that the wisdom of Yefet (e.g., Greek philosophy) will eventually find a place within the spiritual framework of Shem (the Jewish people). The Talmud (Megillah 9b) cites this verse in connection with the translation of the Torah into Greek (the Septuagint), suggesting that even foreign wisdom can serve Torah when properly integrated.
"Kena'an shall be his servant"
This refers to the subjugation of Kena'an (descendants of Cham) to both Yefet and Shem. Rashi explains that this was fulfilled when the Israelites (descendants of Shem) conquered Eretz Kena'an, and later when the Greeks and Romans (descendants of Yefet) ruled over the region.
Broader Implications
The verse highlights the distinct roles of Shem and Yefet in history: Shem represents spiritual and divine service, while Yefet embodies worldly wisdom and beauty. The ideal relationship is one where Yefet's contributions are sanctified by residing in "the tents of Shem"—meaning Torah must remain the guiding force.