Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the context of Genesis 24:42?
A: Genesis 24:42 is part of the story where Eliezer, Avraham's servant, recounts his mission to find a wife for Yitzchak (Isaac). He explains how he prayed to Hashem at the well, asking for success in finding the right match for Yitzchak. This verse shows his faith and reliance on Hashem's guidance.
Q: Why did Eliezer mention 'the God of my master Avraham' in his prayer?
A: Eliezer recognized that Hashem had a special relationship with Avraham, as seen through the many blessings and promises He made to him. By invoking 'the God of my master Avraham,' Eliezer was connecting his request to the covenant between Hashem and Avraham, trusting that Hashem would help him fulfill this mission for Avraham's family (Rashi on Genesis 24:42).
Q: What can we learn from Eliezer's prayer in Genesis 24:42?
A: Eliezer teaches us the importance of turning to Hashem in prayer when embarking on an important mission. His prayer was specific and sincere, showing trust in divine guidance. This teaches us that even when we have a plan, we should seek Hashem's help for success (Rambam, Hilchot Tefillah 1:1-2).
Q: Why did Eliezer pray at the well?
A: The well was a public gathering place where people came for water, making it a strategic location to find a kind and suitable wife for Yitzchak. Additionally, the Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 60:5) notes that wells are associated with divine blessings, as seen in the stories of the patriarchs, so Eliezer chose this meaningful place to pray.
Q: How does this verse apply to us today?
A: Like Eliezer, we should turn to Hashem with our needs and trust in His guidance. Whether making important decisions or seeking success in our endeavors, we learn from Eliezer to pray with sincerity and faith, recognizing that Hashem helps those who seek His will (Talmud, Berachot 32b).
Context of the Verse
This verse (Bereshit 24:42) is part of the narrative in which Eliezer, the servant of Avraham, recounts his mission to find a wife for Yitzchak. He describes how he arrived at the well in Charan and prayed to Hashem for success in his mission. The verse reflects Eliezer's deep faith and his recognition of divine providence in fulfilling Avraham's request.
Eliezer's Prayer and Its Significance
Rashi explains that Eliezer's prayer was not merely a request for personal success but a plea for divine assistance in fulfilling the will of Avraham, his master. By invoking "Hashem, God of my master Avraham," Eliezer acknowledges that his mission is in service of Avraham's spiritual legacy. The phrase "if now Thou do prosper my way" (אִם־יֶשְׁךָ־נָּא מַצְלִיחַ דַּרְכִּי) demonstrates his humility and reliance on Hashem's guidance.
The Use of "הַיּוֹם" (This Day)
The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 60:5) notes that Eliezer emphasizes "this day" (הַיּוֹם) to highlight the immediacy of his prayer and its connection to his arrival at the well. This teaches that one should not delay in seeking divine assistance when embarking on a significant mission. The Sforno adds that Eliezer's promptness reflects his understanding that success in spiritual matters requires timely action and trust in Hashem.
Eliezer's Connection to Avraham
Ramban observes that Eliezer repeatedly refers to Avraham in his prayer, underscoring his loyalty to his master and his awareness that the mission's success depends on Avraham's merit. The Talmud (Chullin 95b) derives from this that a servant who serves his master faithfully is considered like a member of the household, worthy of divine assistance in his endeavors.
Lessons in Prayer and Divine Providence