Genesis 24:5 - Must Isaac return to idolatry?

Context of the Verse

This verse (Bereshit 24:5) appears in the narrative of Avraham sending his servant (traditionally identified as Eliezer) to find a wife for Yitzchak from Avraham's homeland. The servant expresses concern that the potential bride might refuse to return with him to Eretz Canaan, questioning whether he should then bring Yitzchak back to Avraham's birthplace.

Rashi's Commentary

Rashi explains that the servant's question reflects his misunderstanding of Avraham's priorities. The servant assumed Avraham's primary concern was finding a wife from his family, even if it meant Yitzchak leaving Eretz Canaan. However, Avraham immediately corrects this in the next verse (24:6), emphatically stating that Yitzchak must not return to that land under any circumstances. Rashi notes that this demonstrates Avraham's unwavering commitment to Eretz Yisrael as the destined homeland for his descendants.

Ramban's Insight

The Ramban (Nachmanides) observes that this exchange reveals a fundamental principle about Eretz Yisrael: it is forbidden to leave the Land unless under extreme circumstances (like famine in Avraham's time). The servant's suggestion to return Yitzchak to Charan would violate this principle, which is why Avraham rejects it so forcefully.

Midrashic Perspective

• The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 59:9) highlights that the servant's question demonstrates his lack of spiritual perception compared to Avraham. While the servant saw practical obstacles, Avraham maintained perfect faith that Hashem would ensure the right woman would willingly come to Eretz Yisrael.
• Another Midrashic interpretation suggests the servant was testing Avraham's commitment to the Land, prompting Avraham's emphatic response that clarified this foundational value for all future generations.

Halachic Implications

The Rambam (Hilchot Melachim 5:9) derives from Avraham's response that it is forbidden for Jews to leave Eretz Yisrael to dwell in the diaspora, except for specific mitzvah purposes (like learning Torah or getting married) and even then only temporarily. This halacha has its roots in Avraham's absolute rejection of the idea that Yitzchak might return to Charan.

Spiritual Significance

This exchange establishes Eretz Yisrael as the eternal homeland of the Jewish people. Avraham's refusal to consider Yitzchak leaving the Land - even to secure a proper wife from his family - demonstrates that dwelling in Eretz Yisrael is not merely a practical consideration but a fundamental spiritual value central to Jewish identity.