Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 12:2 mean when Hashem tells Avraham 'I will make you a great nation'?
A: This verse is part of Hashem's promise to Avraham (then called Avram) when commanding him to leave his homeland. Rashi explains that 'a great nation' refers to the Jewish people, who would descend from Avraham. The promise includes both physical abundance (blessings) and spiritual greatness (making his name renowned).
Q: Why is Genesis 12:2 important in Judaism?
A: This verse marks the beginning of the covenant between Hashem and Avraham, which is foundational to Jewish history. The Rambam (Maimonides) teaches that Avraham's mission—and by extension, the Jewish people's—is to spread knowledge of Hashem. This blessing sets the stage for the Jewish people's role in the world as a 'light unto nations.'
Q: What does it mean that Avraham's name will be 'made great' in Genesis 12:2?
A: The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 39:11) explains that Avraham's name would become synonymous with kindness, faith, and devotion to Hashem. Unlike worldly fame, this greatness refers to eternal spiritual influence—as we see today, where Avraham is revered as the father of monotheism.
Q: How does 'you shall be a blessing' (Genesis 12:2) apply to us today?
A: The Talmud (Pesachim 117b) interprets this to mean that blessings in the world would be attributed to Avraham's merit. Practically, this teaches that Jews are meant to be conduits of blessing—through Torah study, acts of kindness (chesed), and living ethically. Just as Avraham inspired others, we too must positively impact those around us.
Q: Why did Hashem choose Avraham for these blessings in Genesis 12:2?
A: The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 38:13) describes how Avraham recognized Hashem's unity despite growing up in a pagan world. Hashem saw his potential to teach monotheism and righteousness. As Rambam writes (Hilchot Avodah Zarah 1:3), Avraham earned this role through his independent search for truth and willingness to stand apart for Hashem.
Promise of Greatness and Blessing
The verse (Bereishit 12:2) contains Hashem's promise to Avraham Avinu, marking the beginning of the covenant between Hashem and the Jewish people. Rashi explains that the phrase "I will make of thee a great nation" refers to the Jewish people, who would descend from Avraham. This greatness is not merely in numbers but in spiritual stature, as the nation destined to receive the Torah and serve as a light unto the nations (Yeshayahu 42:6).
Threefold Blessing
The Ramban (Nachmanides) notes that the verse outlines a threefold blessing:
Avraham as the Source of Blessing
The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 39:11) elaborates that "thou shalt be a blessing" means that blessings in the world would be channeled through Avraham. Before him, blessings were given directly by Hashem, but afterward, people would say, "May you be blessed like Avraham." The Sforno adds that Avraham’s righteousness made him a conduit for divine bracha (blessing) to the world.
Spiritual Legacy
The Kli Yakar emphasizes that Avraham’s greatness was not for personal glory but to elevate the world toward recognition of Hashem. His name would become synonymous with kindness and faith, inspiring future generations. The Talmud (Pesachim 117b) notes that the phrase "make thy name great" alludes to the addition of the letter heh to his name (from Avram to Avraham), symbolizing his expanded role in divine providence.