Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 25:24 mean when it says 'her days to be delivered were fulfilled'?
A: According to Rashi, this phrase means that Rivkah (Rebecca) completed the full term of pregnancy exactly as intended by Hashem. The Torah emphasizes that the birth happened precisely when it was meant to, showing Divine providence in the timing.
Q: Why does the Torah mention that there were twins in Rivkah's womb?
A: The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 63:6) explains that the mention of twins highlights the contrast between Yaakov (Jacob) and Esav (Esau) from the very beginning. Even in the womb, their different natures and destinies were apparent, as later verses describe their struggles.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Genesis 25:24 about pregnancy and birth?
A: The verse teaches that childbirth follows Hashem's precise timing (Rambam, Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah). Just as Rivkah's pregnancy reached its completion at the right moment, we learn to trust in Divine timing in all aspects of life.
Q: How does the concept of twins in this verse relate to Jewish tradition?
A: The Talmud (Yevamot 64a) discusses how twins can have very different personalities and roles, as seen with Yaakov and Esav. This teaches that even when people share similar beginnings (like twins), their choices define their spiritual paths.
Q: Why is it significant that the Torah uses the word 'behold' (הִנֵּה) in this verse?
A: Rashi explains that 'behold' calls attention to the surprising nature of the birth - that after Rivkah's difficult pregnancy (as described in earlier verses), it was revealed that she carried twins. This shows that what may seem troubling can contain hidden blessings.
Context and Background
The verse "וַיִּמְלְאוּ יָמֶיהָ לָלֶדֶת וְהִנֵּה תוֹמִם בְּבִטְנָהּ" (Bereishit 25:24) describes Rivkah (Rebecca) at the moment of childbirth, revealing that she carried twins in her womb. This follows the earlier verse (25:22) where she feels a struggle within her, prompting her to seek divine insight.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi explains that the phrase "וַיִּמְלְאוּ יָמֶיהָ" ("her days were fulfilled") indicates that Rivkah gave birth exactly at the completion of nine months, as is typical for pregnancy. The term "תוֹמִם" ("twins") is interpreted to mean that the two children were fully formed and complete, unlike some twins who may be born underdeveloped.
Midrashic Insights
Rambam's Perspective
While Rambam (Maimonides) does not comment directly on this verse, his principles in Hilchot Yesodei HaTorah emphasize divine providence. The revelation of twins here underscores Hashem's omniscience in shaping their futures, as foreshadowed in Rivkah's earlier prophecy (25:23).
Grammatical Nuances
The word "תוֹמִם" is spelled defectively (missing a ו), which the Ba'al HaTurim connects to the incomplete nature of Eisav's righteousness, contrasting with Yaakov's spiritual wholeness. This reflects their eternal struggle, as later seen in their lives.