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Genesis 49:21 - Swift deer, eloquent words.

Genesis 49:21 - בראשית 49:21

Hebrew Text

נַפְתָּלִי אַיָּלָה שְׁלֻחָה הַנֹּתֵן אִמְרֵי־שָׁפֶר׃

English Translation

Naftali is a hind let loose: he gives goodly words.

Transliteration

Naftali ayala shlucha hanoten imrei-shafer.

Hebrew Leining Text

נַפְתָּלִ֖י אַיָּלָ֣ה שְׁלֻחָ֑ה הַנֹּתֵ֖ן אִמְרֵי־שָֽׁפֶר׃ <span class="mam-spi-samekh">{ס}</span>        
נַפְתָּלִ֖י אַיָּלָ֣ה שְׁלֻחָ֑ה הַנֹּתֵ֖ן אִמְרֵי־שָֽׁפֶר׃ {ס}        

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Naftali's Blessing in Yaakov's Prophecy

The verse "Naftali is a hind let loose: he gives goodly words" (Bereshit 49:21) is part of Yaakov Avinu's final blessings to his sons. The imagery of Naftali as a swift deer (אַיָּלָה שְׁלֻחָה) and a speaker of beautiful words (אִמְרֵי־שָׁפֶר) is interpreted in various ways by our Sages.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi explains that Naftali was swift like a deer, referencing the tribe's role in swiftly delivering messages during the time of the Beit HaMikdash. The "goodly words" refer to the tribe's involvement in bringing news of victories in battle, as seen in the story of Devorah and Barak (Shoftim 4-5), where Barak was from the tribe of Naftali.

Midrashic Interpretations

  • Midrash Bereshit Rabbah (98:17) connects Naftali's swiftness to the tribe's inheritance in the fertile, fruitful land of the Galilee, which produced fruits quickly.
  • Targum Onkelos translates "goodly words" as words of Torah, suggesting the tribe excelled in wisdom and righteous speech.
  • Ramban (Nachmanides) adds that Naftali's blessing reflects both physical agility and eloquence, symbolizing balance between action and wisdom.

Symbolism of the Deer

The deer (אַיָּלָה) is a symbol of grace and speed in Jewish thought. The Talmud (Chullin 59b) notes that a deer's legs are always ready to run, paralleling Naftali's readiness to serve Hashem and the Jewish people. The term "שְׁלֻחָה" (let loose) implies freedom and enthusiasm in fulfilling one's mission.

Practical Lessons

From Naftali's blessing, we learn the importance of:

  • Swiftness in performing mitzvot (Pirkei Avot 1:14 - "Run to do a minor mitzvah")
  • Using speech for positive purposes, such as Torah study and encouraging others
  • Balancing physical talents with spiritual growth

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does 'Naftali is a hind let loose' mean in Genesis 49:21?
A: Rashi explains that this metaphor describes the tribe of Naftali as swift and agile like a deer (hind), particularly in fulfilling mitzvot and spreading Torah teachings. The phrase 'let loose' suggests they were quick to act for good causes, such as when they hurried to bring news or perform acts of kindness.
Q: Why does the verse say Naftali 'gives goodly words'?
A: According to the Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah), this refers to Naftali's eloquence in Torah study and sharing wisdom. The 'goodly words' (אִמְרֵי־שָׁפֶר) highlight their role in teaching and inspiring others with beautiful, meaningful Torah insights—a trait praised in Jewish tradition.
Q: How does the blessing to Naftali apply to us today?
A: The Vilna Gaon teaches that Naftali's traits—swiftness in mitzvot and sharing Torah—are timeless lessons. We should strive to act quickly for good deeds (zerizut) and use our words wisely to uplift others, whether through Torah study, encouragement, or peaceful speech (based on Mishlei 15:4).
Q: Why is Naftali compared to a deer and not another animal?
A: The Talmud (Chullin 59b) notes that deer are known for their grace and speed. Just as a deer runs freely, Naftali’s tribe moved with purpose—whether in battle (as per Joshua 19:32-39) or spreading Torah. The Kli Yakar adds that deer symbolize joy, reflecting Naftali’s positive influence.