Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 15:10 mean when it says Avram divided the animals but not the birds?
A: In Genesis 15:10, Avram (later called Avraham) prepares a covenant ceremony with Hashem by cutting animals in half, following ancient covenant practices. Rashi explains that he didn't cut the birds because they symbolize the Jewish people - just as birds are delicate, so too the Jewish people need special divine protection (based on Midrash).
Q: Why did Avram perform this animal division in Genesis 15:10?
A: This act established the 'Covenant Between the Parts' (ברית בין הבתרים), where Hashem promised the Land of Israel to Avraham's descendants. The Rambam explains this was a prophetic vision (Guide 2:41), while the Talmud (Berachos 32b) teaches it showed Avraham's merit in following Hashem's commands precisely.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Genesis 15:10 today?
A: The verse teaches about commitment to Hashem's covenant. Just as Avraham meticulously prepared for this divine promise, we learn from the Sforno that we must approach our relationship with Hashem with careful preparation and wholehearted dedication, especially regarding our connection to the Land of Israel.
Q: Why are the animals split in half in Genesis 15:10?
A: The splitting symbolizes the seriousness of the covenant. The Midrash (Bereishis Rabbah 44:14) explains that in ancient times, parties to a covenant would walk between split animals to show they would keep their word - just as these animals were split if they broke the agreement. Here, only Hashem's presence (represented by fire) passes through, showing it's His unilateral promise.
Q: What's the significance of the birds not being split in Genesis 15:10?
A: Rashi (based on Midrash) notes the birds represent the Jewish people who would be vulnerable in exile. Just as the birds remained whole, this hints that despite difficulties, the Jewish people would remain intact. The Kli Yakar adds that birds, which can fly freely, symbolize the spiritual freedom of the Jewish soul that can never be fully subjugated.
Context of the Verse
This verse (Bereshit 15:10) describes Avraham Avinu's preparation for the Brit Bein HaBetarim (Covenant Between the Parts), where Hashem establishes His covenant with Avraham regarding the future of the Jewish people. The act of dividing the animals and the treatment of the birds hold deep symbolic meaning in Orthodox Jewish tradition.
Explanation of the Division
Rashi (Bereshit 15:10) explains that Avraham was commanded to take three animals—a heifer, a goat, and a ram—and divide them into two parts each, placing the halves opposite one another. This act symbolizes the future trials and divisions the Jewish people would endure, particularly the exiles under foreign empires.
Why the Birds Were Not Divided
Rashi notes that the birds—a turtledove and a young pigeon—were not divided. The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 44:14) explains that this symbolizes the Jewish people, who, despite being scattered among the nations, remain whole and undivided in their spiritual essence. Alternatively, the Ramban suggests that the birds represent the future offerings in the Beit HaMikdash, which are brought whole (e.g., the korban oleh v'yored of a poor person).
Symbolism of the Covenant
The Brit Bein HaBetarim is a foundational moment in Jewish history, foreshadowing both exile and redemption. The divided animals represent the trials of exile, while the undivided birds signify the eternal unity of the Jewish people under Hashem's protection. The Talmud (Nedarim 32a) further connects this covenant to the future giving of the Torah and the building of the Mishkan.
Halachic Implications
The Rambam (Hilchot Melachim 9:1) derives from this covenant that Hashem's promise to Avraham is everlasting, ensuring the Jewish people's survival and eventual redemption. The undivided birds also teach that even in exile, Klal Yisrael remains connected to Hashem through mitzvot and Torah study.