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Genesis 24:56 - Divine mission demands urgency.

Genesis 24:56 - בראשית 24:56

Hebrew Text

וַיֹּאמֶר אֲלֵהֶם אַל־תְּאַחֲרוּ אֹתִי וַיהוָה הִצְלִיחַ דַּרְכִּי שַׁלְּחוּנִי וְאֵלְכָה לַאדֹנִי׃

English Translation

And he said to them, Hinder me not, seeing the Lord has prospered my way; send me away that I may go to my master.

Transliteration

Va'yomer alehem al-te'acharu oti va'Adonai hitzli'ach darki shalchuni ve'elcha la'adoni.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֲלֵהֶם֙ אַל־תְּאַחֲר֣וּ אֹתִ֔י וַֽיהֹוָ֖ה הִצְלִ֣יחַ דַּרְכִּ֑י שַׁלְּח֕וּנִי וְאֵלְכָ֖ה לַֽאדֹנִֽי׃
וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֲלֵהֶם֙ אַל־תְּאַחֲר֣וּ אֹתִ֔י וַֽיהֹוָ֖ה הִצְלִ֣יחַ דַּרְכִּ֑י שַׁלְּח֕וּנִי וְאֵלְכָ֖ה לַֽאדֹנִֽי׃

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Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

This verse (Bereshit 24:56) appears in the narrative of Eliezer, Avraham's servant, who was sent to find a wife for Yitzchak. After successfully identifying Rivka as the chosen bride, Eliezer seeks to return promptly to his master Avraham. The urgency in his words reflects his commitment to fulfilling his mission without delay.

Eliezer's Urgency

Rashi explains that Eliezer's insistence on not being delayed ("אַל־תְּאַחֲרוּ אֹתִי") stems from his recognition that Hashem had clearly guided his journey ("וַיהוָה הִצְלִיחַ דַּרְכִּי"). Since Divine Providence had already orchestrated the events leading to Rivka's selection, lingering would be unnecessary and potentially counterproductive. The Sforno adds that Eliezer understood that once a mitzvah presents itself, one should not postpone its completion (based on the principle of zerizim makdimim l'mitzvos).

Trust in Divine Success

The phrase "וַיהוָה הִצְלִיחַ דַּרְכִּי" highlights Eliezer's acknowledgment of Hashem's hand in his mission. The Ramban notes that this declaration was not boastful but rather a humble recognition that his success was entirely due to Divine intervention. This aligns with the broader Torah theme that human efforts are secondary to Hashem's will (see Mishlei 16:9).

Respect for Avraham

Eliezer refers to Avraham as "אֲדֹנִי" (my master), emphasizing his unwavering loyalty. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 60:8) praises Eliezer for his steadfast devotion, noting that even after achieving success, he remained subservient to Avraham's authority. This teaches the importance of maintaining proper hierarchical relationships, especially when fulfilling a shlichut (agency).

Practical Lessons

  • Zerizut in Mitzvot: One should not delay the completion of a mitzvah when the opportunity arises.
  • Recognition of Divine Providence: Success in endeavors should be attributed to Hashem's guidance.
  • Loyalty to One's Mission: Even after achieving goals, one must remain focused on the original purpose and authority.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does 'the Lord has prospered my way' mean in Genesis 24:56?
A: In Genesis 24:56, Eliezer, Abraham's servant, acknowledges that Hashem (God) has helped him successfully find a wife (Rivka) for Yitzchak (Isaac). Rashi explains that this refers to the divine assistance he received throughout his journey, including the sign at the well where Rivka showed kindness by offering water to him and his camels.
Q: Why did Eliezer say 'Hinder me not' in Genesis 24:56?
A: Eliezer was eager to return to Abraham quickly because he had completed his mission. The Talmud (Berachot 40a) teaches that delaying a mitzvah (commandment) is improper. Since finding a wife for Yitzchak was a sacred task, Eliezer did not want any unnecessary delays.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Eliezer's statement in Genesis 24:56?
A: We learn the importance of recognizing Hashem's hand in our successes and not delaying in fulfilling mitzvot. The Rambam (Hilchot De'ot 3:3) emphasizes gratitude to God for His kindness, as Eliezer demonstrated. Additionally, we see the value of acting promptly when doing good deeds.
Q: How does Genesis 24:56 apply to our lives today?
A: This verse teaches us to acknowledge God's help in our daily successes and to prioritize mitzvot without delay. Just as Eliezer recognized divine providence in finding Rivka, we should also see Hashem's guidance in our lives. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 60:6) highlights this as an example of trusting in God's plan.