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Genesis 29:12 - Kin reveals destiny through Rachel

Genesis 29:12 - בראשית 29:12

Hebrew Text

וַיַּגֵּד יַעֲקֹב לְרָחֵל כִּי אֲחִי אָבִיהָ הוּא וְכִי בֶן־רִבְקָה הוּא וַתָּרָץ וַתַּגֵּד לְאָבִיהָ׃

English Translation

And Ya῾aqov told Raĥel that he was her father’s brother, and that he was Rivqa’s son: and she ran and told her father.

Transliteration

Vayaged Yaakov le-Rachel ki achi aviha hu vechi ben-Rivka hu vataratz vataged le-aviha.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיַּגֵּ֨ד יַעֲקֹ֜ב לְרָחֵ֗ל כִּ֣י אֲחִ֤י אָבִ֙יהָ֙ ה֔וּא וְכִ֥י בֶן־רִבְקָ֖ה ה֑וּא וַתָּ֖רׇץ וַתַּגֵּ֥ד לְאָבִֽיהָ׃
וַיַּגֵּ֨ד יַעֲקֹ֜ב לְרָחֵ֗ל כִּ֣י אֲחִ֤י אָבִ֙יהָ֙ ה֔וּא וְכִ֥י בֶן־רִבְקָ֖ה ה֑וּא וַתָּ֖רׇץ וַתַּגֵּ֥ד לְאָבִֽיהָ׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Yaakov's Introduction to Rachel

The verse (Bereishit 29:12) describes Yaakov revealing his identity to Rachel, stating that he is her father's brother (i.e., nephew, as the term achi can denote a close relative) and the son of Rivka. Rashi explains that Yaakov emphasized these points to demonstrate his legitimacy as a suitable match for Rachel, since he was from her family lineage and the son of her aunt Rivka.

Why Yaakov Mentioned Both Relationships

Ramban suggests that Yaakov mentioned two aspects of his identity:

  • "Her father's brother" – To show he was from Lavan's family, making him an appropriate suitor.
  • "The son of Rivka" – To emphasize his maternal lineage, as Rivka was known for her righteousness, distinguishing him from Lavan’s deceitful nature.

Rachel's Immediate Response

The verse states that Rachel "ran and told her father." The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 70:12) highlights Rachel’s excitement and sense of urgency, indicating her recognition of Yaakov’s noble character and the significance of his arrival. The Talmud (Megillah 13b) also notes that righteous individuals act swiftly when fulfilling mitzvot or important matters.

Lavan’s Perspective

Ibn Ezra comments that Rachel informed Lavan immediately because Yaakov’s arrival was significant—he was a relative who could be trusted, unlike strangers. Sforno adds that Rachel’s haste demonstrated her hope that Yaakov might assist in countering Lavan’s dishonest tendencies.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Megillah 13b
The verse is referenced in the context of discussing the relationship between Jacob and Rachel, and how Jacob introduced himself to Rachel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Yaakov tell Rachel that he was her father's brother?
A: According to Rashi, Yaakov was explaining his close family connection to Rachel. While technically Yaakov was Rivka's son and thus Lavan's nephew (not brother), in biblical Hebrew, the term 'brother' (אֲחִי) can sometimes refer to a close relative like a nephew. Yaakov wanted to establish his familial ties to gain trust.
Q: Why did Rachel run to tell her father about Yaakov?
A: The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 70:12) explains that Rachel ran with excitement to share the news of their relative's arrival. This shows her enthusiasm and kindness, as she wanted her father to properly welcome Yaakov. The Torah highlights her haste to emphasize her righteous character.
Q: What lesson can we learn from this interaction between Yaakov and Rachel?
A: This verse teaches the importance of clear communication and family ties. Yaakov properly identified himself to avoid misunderstandings, and Rachel demonstrated responsibility by informing her father. The Rambam (Hilchos Dei'os) teaches that transparency and family loyalty are essential Jewish values.
Q: Why does the Torah mention that Yaakov is Rivka's son in this verse?
A: Rashi explains that Yaakov emphasized being Rivka's son to distinguish himself from Esav, who was also Lavan's nephew. By mentioning his mother Rivka - who was Lavan's sister - Yaakov was establishing his righteous lineage and showing he came from the proper family, not from Esav's side.