Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Who is fleeing in Genesis 31:21 and why?
A: In Genesis 31:21, Yaakov (Jacob) is fleeing from Lavan (Laban), his father-in-law, with his family and possessions. According to Rashi, Yaakov left secretly because Lavan had become hostile and might have prevented him from leaving. This was after Hashem commanded Yaakov to return to his homeland (Genesis 31:3).
Q: What is the significance of crossing the river in Genesis 31:21?
A: The river mentioned is the Euphrates, which marked the boundary between Lavan's territory and Eretz Yisrael (the Land of Israel). Crossing it symbolized Yaakov's final break from Lavan's influence and his return to the land promised to his fathers, Avraham and Yitzchak (Abraham and Isaac). The Ramban explains that this was a key step in fulfilling Hashem's covenant.
Q: Why did Yaakov set his face toward Mount Gilad (Gilead)?
A: Mount Gilad was a mountainous region east of the Jordan River. According to Midrashic sources, Yaakov headed there because it was a safe place to regroup before continuing his journey. The Talmud (Chullin 91b) also mentions that Mount Gilad was associated with divine protection, as it later became a place of covenant between Yaakov and Lavan (Genesis 31:44-54).
Q: What lesson can we learn from Yaakov's flight in Genesis 31:21?
A: This verse teaches the importance of trusting in Hashem's guidance even in difficult circumstances. Yaakov had to flee secretly, yet he acted with faith that Hashem would protect him (as promised in Genesis 28:15). The Sforno highlights that Yaakov took initiative while relying on divine help—a balance between hishtadlut (human effort) and bitachon (trust in G-d).
Q: How does Genesis 31:21 connect to the broader story of Yaakov?
A: This verse is a turning point in Yaakov's life, marking his transition from living under Lavan's control to becoming the leader of his own family in Eretz Yisrael. The Or HaChaim explains that this journey was necessary for Yaakov to fulfill his destiny as one of the Avot (forefathers) and establish the future tribes of Israel.
Context of the Verse
This verse (Genesis 31:21) describes Yaakov's (Jacob's) flight from Lavan (Laban) with his family and possessions. The Torah recounts how Yaakov took advantage of Lavan's absence to depart secretly, crossing the river (likely the Euphrates) and heading toward Har Gil'ad (Mount Gilad).
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi explains that Yaakov fled "with all that he had" to emphasize that he took not only his material possessions but also his spiritual acquisitions—the Torah knowledge he had gained during his years with Lavan. The phrase "וַיָּקָם" ("and he rose up") suggests urgency, as Yaakov acted swiftly to fulfill Hashem's command to return to Eretz Yisrael (the Land of Israel).
Crossing the River
The river symbolizes a boundary between exile and redemption. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 74:15) notes that crossing the river represents Yaakov's complete separation from Lavan's influence and his return to the spiritual path of his fathers, Avraham and Yitzchak.
Setting His Face Toward Har Gil'ad
Har Gil'ad (Mount Gilad) was a significant location, later becoming part of the tribal inheritance of Gad and Menashe. Ramban (Nachmanides) suggests that Yaakov chose this route because it was a direct path to Eretz Yisrael while avoiding confrontation with Esav (Esau), who resided in Se'ir.
Lessons from Yaakov's Flight
The Gemara (Chullin 91b) derives from this episode that a person must take initiative in fulfilling mitzvot, even when facing obstacles. Yaakov's decisive action teaches the importance of trusting in Hashem's protection while making practical efforts to secure one's spiritual and physical well-being.