Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Abraham mean when he asks 'by what shall I know that I shall inherit it' in Genesis 15:8?
A: Abraham is asking for a sign or assurance from Hashem that his descendants will indeed inherit the Land of Israel. According to Rashi, this was not a lack of faith, but rather a request for a covenant to strengthen his understanding of the promise. The following verses describe the covenant between the pieces (ברית בין הבתרים), where Hashem formalizes this promise.
Q: Why is Genesis 15:8 important in Jewish tradition?
A: This verse is important because it leads to the ברית בין הבתרים (Covenant Between the Parts), where Hashem establishes an eternal covenant with Abraham regarding the Land of Israel. The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah) explains that this covenant symbolizes the future trials of the Jewish people and their ultimate redemption, reinforcing the unbreakable bond between Hashem and the descendants of Abraham.
Q: How does Genesis 15:8 apply to Jews today?
A: This verse reminds us of Hashem's eternal promise to the Jewish people regarding the Land of Israel. The Rambam (Maimonides) emphasizes that this covenant remains valid, and Jewish tradition holds that the Land of Israel is our eternal inheritance. It strengthens our faith in Hashem's promises, even when fulfillment seems distant.
Q: Did Abraham doubt Hashem's promise in Genesis 15:8?
A: No, Abraham was not doubting. Rashi explains that Abraham was seeking a deeper level of understanding—he wanted to know through what merit his descendants would inherit the land. The Talmud (Nedarim 32a) teaches that Abraham's question reflected his desire for a covenant to ensure the promise would endure even if his descendants sinned.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Abraham's question in Genesis 15:8?
A: We learn that it is natural to seek clarity in our relationship with Hashem. Abraham teaches us to ask sincere questions to strengthen our faith, not weaken it. The Midrash Tanchuma highlights that true faith involves seeking understanding while trusting in Hashem's plan, just as Abraham did before receiving the covenant.
Context of the Verse
The verse (Bereshit 15:8) records Avraham Avinu's question to Hashem after being promised the Land of Israel as an inheritance. Avraham seeks clarity on how he can be certain of this promise. This occurs within the broader context of the Brit Bein HaBetarim (Covenant Between the Parts), where Hashem establishes His covenant with Avraham.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Bereshit 15:8) explains that Avraham was not expressing doubt in Hashem's promise but rather sought to understand the nature of the inheritance. He asks, "במה אדע" ("by what shall I know")—meaning, through what merit or sign will this promise be fulfilled? Rashi cites the Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 44:14), which states that Avraham was concerned whether his descendants might sin and thereby lose their right to the land.
Rambam's Perspective
Rambam (Moreh Nevuchim 3:49) interprets Avraham's question as a request for a tangible sign to strengthen his prophetic vision. Since prophecy requires mental and spiritual preparation, Avraham sought a physical confirmation to solidify his understanding of the divine promise.
Midrashic Insights
Nachmanides' (Ramban) Commentary
Ramban (Bereshit 15:8) emphasizes that Avraham's question was rooted in his prophetic insight. He understood that inheriting the land would require his descendants to uphold righteousness. Thus, he sought a covenant that would account for both their merits and failures, ensuring the promise's continuity despite future challenges.
Halachic and Theological Implications
The verse underscores the principle of zechut avot (merit of the forefathers), demonstrating that divine promises are intertwined with human actions. Avraham's concern highlights the balance between divine assurance and human responsibility, a theme central to Jewish thought.