Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did Pharaoh treat Avram well because of Sarai?
A: According to Rashi (Genesis 12:16), Pharaoh treated Avram well because he believed Sarai was Avram's sister, not his wife. When Pharaoh took Sarai into his household, he wanted to honor Avram to avoid any conflict or suspicion. This was part of Hashem's plan to protect Sarai and ultimately bless Avram with wealth.
Q: What is the significance of the animals and servants listed in this verse?
A: The Torah lists these possessions (sheep, oxen, donkeys, camels, and servants) to show how Hashem fulfilled His promise to bless Avram (Genesis 12:2). The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 41:1) explains that these were signs of wealth in ancient times, demonstrating Avram's growing prosperity as he followed Hashem's command.
Q: Why does the verse mention both male and female donkeys separately?
A: Rashi (Genesis 12:16) notes that the Torah specifies both 'he-asses' (חֲמֹרִים) and 'she-asses' (אֲתֹנֹת) because male donkeys were valuable for carrying loads, while female donkeys were important for breeding. This detail emphasizes that Avram was blessed with complete and sustainable wealth.
Q: How does this verse relate to Avram's journey in Egypt?
A: This verse shows that despite Avram's temporary descent to Egypt due to famine (Genesis 12:10), Hashem protected him and even increased his wealth. The Talmud (Berachot 5a) teaches that sometimes challenges lead to greater blessings, as seen here with Avram's material success in Egypt.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Avram receiving wealth in Egypt?
A: The Ramban (Genesis 12:10) explains that this episode teaches that Hashem watches over the righteous even in difficult situations. Though Avram faced hardship (famine) and risk (Sarai being taken), Hashem ensured his well-being and prosperity. This reinforces the idea that trusting in Hashem brings blessing, even in exile.
Divine Favor Due to Sarah's Merit
The verse (Bereishit 12:16) states that Pharaoh treated Avram well "בַּעֲבוּרָהּ" ("for her sake")—referring to Sarah. Rashi explains that all the wealth given to Avram was due to Sarah's merit. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 41:2) elaborates that Sarah's righteousness and beauty were so great that even when Pharaoh took her, Hashem ensured Avram would be compensated abundantly.
Significance of the Enumerated Possessions
The Torah lists Avram's acquisitions in detail:
Providential Reward for Avraham's Trust
Rambam (Hilchot Teshuva 9:1) emphasizes that Hashem rewards those who follow His will. Avram’s willingness to journey to Canaan despite uncertainty (Bereishit 12:1) was rewarded with wealth, as the verse demonstrates. The Kli Yakar adds that this wealth was not merely material but also a means to elevate Avram’s influence, enabling him to spread monotheism.
Contrast with Later Trials
While Avram gained wealth here, the Talmud (Sanhedrin 107a) notes that true tests of faith—such as the Akeidah—would come later. The Ohr HaChaim explains that this initial prosperity was a preparation for greater challenges, showing that divine blessings are intertwined with spiritual growth.