Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does it mean that Yitzchak went out 'to meditate in the field'?
A: Rashi explains that Yitzchak went out to pray in the field. The word 'lasuach' (to meditate) is understood by our Sages as referring to prayer, particularly the afternoon prayer (Mincha), which Avraham established and Yitzchak continued. This teaches us the importance of setting aside time for prayer in solitude.
Q: Why is it significant that this happened at 'evening time'?
A: The evening time (lifnot erev) refers to the time before sunset when the Mincha prayer is recited. The Talmud (Berachot 26b) teaches that Avraham instituted the Shacharit (morning) prayer, Yitzchak the Mincha (afternoon) prayer, and Yaakov the Maariv (evening) prayer. This verse shows Yitzchak's dedication to prayer at its proper time.
Q: What is the significance of Yitzchak seeing camels approaching?
A: The camels carried Rivka, who would become Yitzchak's wife. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 60:14) notes that this was the first time Yitzchak saw Rivka, and it happened immediately after his prayer, showing that his prayers for a righteous wife were answered at that moment.
Q: Why does the Torah mention that Yitzchak 'lifted up his eyes'?
A: The Ramban explains that lifting one's eyes signifies turning one's attention heavenward, showing Yitzchak's humility and recognition that all comes from Hashem. This teaches us to always be aware of Hashem's presence, especially during prayer.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Yitzchak praying in the field?
A: The Sforno teaches that Yitzchak chose to pray in an open field to avoid distractions and connect with Hashem in nature's solitude. This teaches us the value of finding a quiet place for prayer and reflection, away from daily disturbances, to strengthen our relationship with Hashem.
Understanding the Verse in Context
The verse (Bereshit 24:63) describes Yitzchak (Isaac) going out to the field to lasuach basadeh ("meditate in the field") at evening time, where he encounters Rivkah (Rebecca) arriving with Avraham's servant Eliezer. The phrase lasuach basadeh has been interpreted in various ways by our Sages.
Interpretations of "Lasuach Basadeh"
The Significance of the Evening Time
The verse specifies that this occurred lifnot erev ("at the turning of evening"). The Sages note that this was the time when Yitzchak instituted the Mincha prayer, as Avraham instituted Shacharit (morning prayer) and Yaakov instituted Ma'ariv (evening prayer). This teaches the importance of structured prayer times.
The Camels' Arrival and Divine Providence
When Yitzchak lifts his eyes and sees the camels approaching, the Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 60:15) highlights that this moment was orchestrated by Hashem to bring Rivkah to him at the precise time of his prayer. This demonstrates hashgacha pratit (divine providence) in matchmaking, showing that marriages are made in heaven.
Yitzchak's Role in the Narrative
Yitzchak's presence in the field also symbolizes his connection to the land of Israel and his role as the inheritor of Avraham's covenant. His prayer in the field mirrors Avraham's service to Hashem in open spaces, reinforcing the spiritual continuity between the Avot (forefathers).