Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does it mean that Avraham was 'advanced in age'?
A: The phrase 'advanced in age' (בָּא בַּיָּמִים) means that Avraham reached a ripe old age with wisdom and fulfillment. Rashi explains that this implies his days were full of good deeds and accomplishments, not just that he lived many years.
Q: Why does the Torah mention that Hashem blessed Avraham 'in all things'?
A: The blessing 'in all things' (בַּכֹּל) means that Avraham lacked nothing—materially, spiritually, and in his descendants. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 59:6) teaches that this included wealth, honor, and even a long life free from suffering in his later years.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Avraham being blessed in his old age?
A: This teaches that true blessing comes from a life dedicated to serving Hashem. The Rambam (Hilchot De'ot 5:1) explains that Avraham's blessings were a reward for his righteousness, showing that spiritual growth leads to fulfillment in all aspects of life.
Q: How does this verse relate to the story of finding a wife for Yitzchak?
A: This verse introduces the story of Yitzchak's marriage to emphasize that Avraham's blessings included continuity through his descendants. Rashi notes that 'blessed in all things' hints that Avraham now needed only one thing—a proper wife for Yitzchak to continue his legacy.
Q: Does 'blessed in all things' mean Avraham had no challenges?
A: No, it means that despite life's challenges, Avraham recognized Hashem's kindness in every aspect of his life. The Talmud (Bava Batra 16b) discusses that Avraham faced tests but remained grateful, showing that true blessing is appreciating what one has.
The Meaning of "Advanced in Age"
The phrase "זָקֵן בָּא בַּיָּמִים" ("old, advanced in age") is interpreted by Rashi (Bereshit 24:1) to mean that Avraham reached his days in completeness—his years were filled with wisdom, righteousness, and fulfillment. The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 59:6) explains that this phrase indicates that Avraham had reached the full measure of his days without any lacking, a sign of divine favor.
The Blessing of "בַּכֹּל" (In All Things)
The Torah states that Hashem blessed Avraham "בַּכֹּל"—"in all things." Rashi (Bereshit 24:1) explains that this means Avraham was blessed with wealth, honor, and progeny, as well as spiritual completeness. The Talmud (Bava Batra 16b) elaborates that the numerical value of "בַּכֹּל" (52) is the same as "בן" (son), alluding to Yitzchak, his beloved heir. The Rambam (Hilchot Teshuvah 9:1) teaches that true divine blessing encompasses both material and spiritual success, as seen in Avraham’s life.
Avraham as a Model of Divine Favor
The Sforno (Bereshit 24:1) emphasizes that Avraham’s blessings were not merely material but also included his unwavering faith and moral perfection. The Midrash Tanchuma (Chayei Sarah 1) adds that Avraham was blessed with longevity to see the fulfillment of his legacy through Yitzchak, demonstrating that divine blessing extends beyond one’s lifetime.