Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does it mean that 'God went up from Avraham' in Genesis 17:22?
A: According to Rashi, this phrase indicates that the Divine Presence (Shechinah) which had been speaking to Avraham now ascended and departed from him. This marks the conclusion of their conversation about the covenant of circumcision (Brit Milah). The language of 'going up' is used to show that God's presence was visibly or tangibly with Avraham during this revelation.
Q: Why is this verse important in the story of Avraham?
A: This verse is significant because it concludes the pivotal conversation where God establishes the covenant of circumcision (Brit Milah) with Avraham (Genesis 17:1-21). The departure of the Divine Presence signifies the completion of this sacred agreement, which becomes a foundational mitzvah (commandment) for the Jewish people. The Rambam (Mishneh Torah, Hilchot Milah) emphasizes its eternal importance in Jewish tradition.
Q: What can we learn from God 'finishing talking' with Avraham?
A: The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 47:10) teaches that this shows God’s respect for Avraham—He did not abruptly leave, but concluded the conversation properly. From this, we learn the importance of proper communication and closure in our interactions, especially in matters of holiness. The Talmud (Berachot 31a) also derives from such verses that one should not abruptly end prayers but conclude them respectfully.
Q: How does this verse connect to the mitzvah of Brit Milah?
A: This verse follows God’s commandment to Avraham about circumcision (Genesis 17:10-14). The departure of the Divine Presence signifies that the instructions were complete, and Avraham then fulfills the mitzvah in the next verse (Genesis 17:23). The Shulchan Aruch (Yoreh De’ah 260) cites this as the biblical source for the everlasting nature of this covenant in Jewish law.
Q: Does this verse imply God has a physical form?
A: No, Orthodox Judaism firmly maintains that God has no physical form (Rambam’s 3rd Principle of Faith). The Torah uses human-like descriptions (‘God went up’) to help us understand Divine interactions in terms we can grasp. Rashi and Rambam explain this as metaphorical language—the ‘ascent’ refers to the end of the prophetic revelation, not physical movement.
Literal Meaning (Peshat)
The verse (Bereishit 17:22) describes the conclusion of Hashem's communication with Avraham Avinu after establishing the covenant of circumcision (brit milah). The phrase "וַיַּעַל אֱלֹהִים מֵעַל אַבְרָהָם" ("God went up from Avraham") indicates the Divine Presence withdrew from its prophetic revelation to Avraham.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi explains that this ascent was visible and gradual, unlike a sudden disappearance. He draws a parallel to how a rabbi departs respectfully from his students - first giving the impression of leaving slowly before actually departing. This teaches derech eretz (proper conduct) in human relationships as well.
Kabbalistic Perspective (Sod)
Philosophical Interpretation (Rambam)
In Moreh Nevuchim (1:27), Rambam explains prophetic visions often conclude with imagery of ascent or departure to emphasize these were spiritual communications, not physical encounters. The "ascent" metaphorically represents the return to normal consciousness after prophecy.
Midrashic Insights
Bereishit Rabbah (47:10) notes this was one of five times the Divine Presence "ascended" in Scripture, each marking a significant transition in the relationship between Hashem and humanity. Here it concludes the establishment of the eternal covenant with Avraham's descendants.
Halachic Implication
The Kli Yakar connects this to the mitzvah of brit milah just commanded - the Divine presence "ascended" but remains connected to the Jewish people through this physical sign of the covenant in their flesh, as mentioned in the preceding verses.