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Genesis 11:20 - Generations before Avraham's birth

Genesis 11:20 - בראשית 11:20

Hebrew Text

וַיְחִי רְעוּ שְׁתַּיִם וּשְׁלֹשִׁים שָׁנָה וַיּוֹלֶד אֶת־שְׂרוּג׃

English Translation

And Re῾u lived thirty two years, and begot Serug:

Transliteration

Vaychi Re'u shtayim ushloshim shanah vayoled et-Serug.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיְחִ֣י רְע֔וּ שְׁתַּ֥יִם וּשְׁלֹשִׁ֖ים שָׁנָ֑ה וַיּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת־שְׂרֽוּג׃
וַיְחִ֣י רְע֔וּ שְׁתַּ֥יִם וּשְׁלֹשִׁ֖ים שָׁנָ֑ה וַיּ֖וֹלֶד אֶת־שְׂרֽוּג׃

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Parasha Commentary

Commentary on Bereishit 11:20 - The Life of Re'u and the Birth of Serug

The verse states: "וַיְחִי רְעוּ שְׁתַּיִם וּשְׁלֹשִׁים שָׁנָה וַיּוֹלֶד אֶת־שְׂרוּג" ("And Re'u lived thirty-two years, and begot Serug"). This passage appears in the genealogy from Shem to Avraham, detailing the lineage that connects Noach to the Avos (forefathers).

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Rabbi Shlomo Yitzchaki) notes that the phrase "וַיְחִי" ("and he lived") is used here to indicate that Re'u reached the age of thirty-two before fathering Serug. This follows the pattern seen in earlier generations, where the Torah specifies the age at which each patriarch had his named descendant in this lineage. Rashi emphasizes that these genealogical records establish the authenticity of the Jewish people's ancestry, tracing back to Adam HaRishon.

Significance of the Name "Serug"

The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 38:13) discusses the meaning of the name שְׂרוּג (Serug), suggesting it is related to the word שְׂרִיג (branch), symbolizing the continuation of the lineage leading to Avraham Avinu. The Sforno (Rabbi Ovadia Sforno) adds that this name may allude to the branching out of humanity into different nations, as this period was marked by the dispersion after the Tower of Bavel.

Chronological Context

Rambam (Maimonides) in Moreh Nevuchim (Guide for the Perplexed) highlights that these genealogies serve not only as historical records but also as a framework for understanding the development of monotheism. The generations from Noach to Avraham were a transitional period, where idolatry became widespread, yet the lineage leading to Avraham preserved the knowledge of Hashem.

Lessons from Re'u's Life

  • Timing of Fatherhood: The Torah emphasizes that Re'u was thirty-two when he fathered Serug, teaching that each generation had a designated role in the unfolding of Jewish history.
  • Continuity of Tradition: The Sages (Chazal) teach that despite the spiritual decline of this era, the chain of tradition remained unbroken, ensuring the eventual emergence of Avraham as the father of monotheism.
  • Divine Providence: The Maharal (Rabbi Yehuda Loew of Prague) explains that these precise genealogies demonstrate Hashem’s careful guidance of history toward the fulfillment of His plan.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why does the Torah list the ages when people had children?
A: The Torah lists ages when patriarchs had children to show the continuity of generations leading to Avraham and the Jewish people. Rashi explains that these genealogies connect Adam to Avraham, demonstrating Hashem's plan in forming the Jewish nation.
Q: What is the significance of Re'u living 32 years before having Serug?
A: The Torah emphasizes that Re'u was mature enough (32 years old) before having children, teaching the importance of proper preparation before starting a family. The Rambam notes that our ancestors were careful about proper family life and transmitting traditions.
Q: Why are these genealogies important in Judaism?
A: These genealogies are crucial because they trace the lineage leading to Avraham Avinu, the first Jew. The Talmud (Sanhedrin 19b) teaches that understanding our ancestral chain helps us appreciate our spiritual heritage and connection to the Avot (forefathers).
Q: How does this verse connect to the larger story in Genesis?
A: This verse is part of the genealogy between Noach and Avraham, showing how righteousness was preserved through specific lineages. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah) explains that Hashem carefully selected these generations to ultimately produce Avraham, who would teach monotheism to the world.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Re'u's life?
A: Though little is said about Re'u, the fact that he's part of the chain teaches that every individual in our mesorah (tradition) plays a vital role. As the Sforno notes, even those who aren't famous still contribute to the unfolding of Hashem's plan for the Jewish people.