Genesis 26:24 - Divine promise to Yitzchak

Context of the Verse

This verse (Bereshit 26:24) appears when Yitzchak (Isaac) is in Gerar during a famine. After being instructed by Hashem not to go to Egypt, Yitzchak settles in Gerar, where he faces challenges from Avimelech and the Philistines. This divine revelation reassures Yitzchak of Hashem's protection and the continuity of the covenant.

Divine Revelation at Night

Rashi explains that Hashem appeared to Yitzchak at night to comfort him after he was distressed by the quarrels over the wells (Bereshit 26:20-22). The nighttime appearance signifies divine consolation during moments of uncertainty, as night often symbolizes hardship in Tanach (see Tehillim 30:6). The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 64:3) adds that this was the first time Hashem spoke directly to Yitzchak, marking a pivotal moment in his spiritual journey.

"I am the God of Avraham Thy Father"

Hashem identifies Himself as the God of Avraham to emphasize the continuity of the covenant. Ramban notes that this phrasing reassures Yitzchak that the promises made to Avraham—land, descendants, and divine protection—now extend to him. The mention of Avraham as "thy father" (rather than simply "Avraham") underscores Yitzchak's lineage and his role as the rightful heir to the covenant (see Malbim).

"Fear Not, for I Am with Thee"

The command "אַל־תִּירָא" ("fear not") is a recurring theme in divine encounters with the Avot (e.g., Bereshit 15:1, 46:3). The Sforno explains that Yitzchak may have feared that his struggles in Gerar indicated a withdrawal of divine favor. Hashem counters this by affirming His presence ("אִתְּךָ אָנֹכִי"), echoing the promise made to Yaakov later (Bereshit 28:15). The Talmud (Berachot 60a) teaches that this assurance is a foundational principle: when Hashem is with a person, no harm can ultimately prevail.

The Blessing of Descendants

The promise to "multiply thy seed" reaffirms the covenant with Avraham (Bereshit 15:5, 22:17). The phrase "בַּעֲבוּר אַבְרָהָם עַבְדִּי" ("for My servant Avraham’s sake") highlights the merit of the forefathers (zechut avot). The Midrash (Tanchuma Vayera 1) elaborates that Avraham’s unwavering devotion—particularly the Akeidah—earned eternal blessings for his descendants. Rambam (Hilchot Teshuva 3:4) notes that while zechut avot provides a foundational merit, each generation must also cultivate its own righteousness.

Key Themes

• Divine Comfort: Hashem appears during hardship to reassure Yitzchak, teaching that divine providence is closest in times of struggle.
• Covenantal Continuity: The verse reinforces that the promises to Avraham are inherited by Yitzchak, establishing the patriarchal chain.
• Merit of the Forefathers: The blessings are granted in Avraham’s merit, illustrating the enduring power of righteous deeds.