Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did Avraham live in the land of the Pelishtim?
A: According to Rashi (Genesis 21:34), Avraham temporarily lived in the land of the Pelishtim (Philistines) because he was a stranger and sojourner in the land, as Hashem had not yet given it to his descendants. This teaches us about Avraham's trust in Hashem even when living among foreign nations.
Q: What does 'sojourned' mean in this verse?
A: The Hebrew word 'וַיָּגָר' (vayagar) means 'sojourned' or 'lived as a temporary resident.' Ramban explains that Avraham did not settle permanently but lived there temporarily, showing that Eretz Yisrael was his destined homeland even before it was officially given to his descendants.
Q: Why is it important that Avraham lived among the Pelishtim?
A: The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 54:3) highlights that Avraham maintained his faith and righteousness even while living among the Pelishtim, who were idol worshippers. This teaches us the importance of staying true to Torah values even in challenging environments.
Q: How long did Avraham stay in the land of the Pelishtim?
A: The verse says 'יָמִים רַבִּים' (yamim rabim), meaning 'many days.' Rashi explains this refers to a significant period, showing that Avraham's stay was not brief but long enough to establish peaceful relations (as seen later with Avimelech).
Q: What lesson can we learn from Avraham living in the land of the Pelishtim?
A: The Talmud (Avodah Zarah 9a) derives from Avraham's experience that a Jew must strive to live righteously even in exile. Avraham's conduct teaches us to be ambassadors of Hashem's ways wherever we dwell, just as he did among the Pelishtim.
Avraham's Sojourn in the Land of the Pelishtim
The verse states: "וַיָּגָר אַבְרָהָם בְּאֶרֶץ פְּלִשְׁתִּים יָמִים רַבִּים" ("And Avraham sojourned in the land of the Pelishtim many days"). This passage describes Avraham Avinu's temporary residence in Philistine territory, emphasizing his status as a גר (sojourner) rather than a permanent settler.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi (Bereishit 21:34) comments that the term "וַיָּגָר" (sojourned) indicates Avraham's transient status. Despite dwelling there for an extended period ("ימים רבים"), he did not establish permanent roots, as his ultimate destiny was the Land of Canaan, promised by Hashem. Rashi also notes that this verse follows Avraham's treaty with Avimelech (Bereishit 21:22-32), underscoring that even after securing peaceful relations, Avraham remained a stranger in their land.
Ramban's Insight
The Ramban (Bereishit 21:34) elaborates that Avraham's prolonged stay in Philistine territory was a test of his faith. Though he had previously experienced exile in Egypt (Bereishit 12:10-20), this sojourn demonstrated his unwavering trust in Hashem's promise, despite not yet possessing the land. The phrase "ימים רבים" ("many days") suggests a period of patient waiting for divine fulfillment.
Midrashic Perspectives
Halachic Implications
The Rambam (Hilchot Avodat Kochavim 1:3) cites Avraham's journeys as a model for Jewish resilience in exile. Just as Avraham remained steadfast in his beliefs despite foreign surroundings, Jews in diaspora must uphold Torah values even in challenging environments.
Symbolism of "Many Days"
The Kli Yakar (Bereishit 21:34) interprets "ימים רבים" as a reference to both physical time and spiritual growth. Avraham used these years to deepen his relationship with Hashem, preparing for the eventual fulfillment of the covenant with Yitzchak.