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Genesis 26:17 - Isaac settles in Gerar

Genesis 26:17 - בראשית 26:17

Hebrew Text

וַיֵּלֶךְ מִשָּׁם יִצְחָק וַיִּחַן בְּנַחַל־גְּרָר וַיֵּשֶׁב שָׁם׃

English Translation

And Yiżĥaq departed from there, and pitched in the valley of Gerar, and dwelt there.

Transliteration

Vayeilech misham Yitzchak vayichan b'nachal-Gerar vayeshev sham.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיֵּ֥לֶךְ מִשָּׁ֖ם יִצְחָ֑ק וַיִּ֥חַן בְּנַֽחַל־גְּרָ֖ר וַיֵּ֥שֶׁב שָֽׁם׃
וַיֵּ֥לֶךְ מִשָּׁ֖ם יִצְחָ֑ק וַיִּ֥חַן בְּנַֽחַל־גְּרָ֖ר וַיֵּ֥שֶׁב שָֽׁם׃

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Parasha Commentary

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Bereshit 26:17) explains that Yitzchak departed from Gerar due to the quarrels with the Philistines over the wells, as mentioned in the preceding verses. The phrase "וַיֵּלֶךְ מִשָּׁם" ("And Yitzchak departed from there") indicates his deliberate move to avoid further conflict, demonstrating his commitment to peace (דֶּרֶךְ אֶרֶץ).

Location of Nachal Gerar

The valley of Gerar (נַחַל־גְּרָר) is identified by Ramban (Bereshit 26:17) as a fertile area suitable for grazing flocks, which aligns with Yitzchak's pastoral lifestyle. The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 64:3) adds that this location was part of the land promised to Avraham, reinforcing the theme of divine providence in Yitzchak's journey.

Yitzchak's Dwelling

The phrase "וַיֵּשֶׁב שָׁם" ("and dwelt there") is interpreted by the Sforno as Yitzchak establishing a permanent residence, unlike his father Avraham, who is often described as "sojourning." This reflects Yitzchak's unique role in solidifying the patriarchs' connection to Eretz Yisrael.

Spiritual Significance

The Kli Yakar (Bereshit 26:17) highlights that Yitzchak's move to Nachal Gerar symbolizes his spiritual resilience. Despite being forced to leave, he did not abandon his mission but instead sought a new place to continue his divine service, embodying the principle of "הַכֹּל לִשְׁמַן שָׁמַיִם" (doing everything for the sake of Heaven).

Lessons from the Verse

  • Pursuit of Peace: Yitzchak's departure teaches the importance of avoiding strife, even at the cost of relocation (based on Rashi).
  • Trust in Divine Providence: His settlement in Nachal Gerar reflects faith in Hashem's guidance (as emphasized by Ramban and the Midrash).
  • Persistence in Avodas Hashem: Yitzchak's ability to dwell anew demonstrates commitment to spiritual goals despite challenges (Kli Yakar).

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Yitzchak (Isaac) move to the valley of Gerar?
A: According to Rashi (Genesis 26:17), Yitzchak moved to the valley of Gerar because he was forced to leave his previous location due to disputes over wells that his servants had dug. The Philistines had filled those wells, leading to tension. This teaches us about Yitzchak's patience and willingness to avoid conflict, as he chose to relocate rather than escalate the situation.
Q: What is the significance of Yitzchak dwelling in the valley of Gerar?
A: The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 64:3) explains that Yitzchak's dwelling in Gerar symbolizes his commitment to continuing his father Avraham's legacy. Just as Avraham lived in Gerar (Genesis 20:1), Yitzchak followed in his footsteps, showing the importance of maintaining family traditions and values. This also highlights the fulfillment of Hashem's promise that Avraham's descendants would inherit the land.
Q: What can we learn from Yitzchak's actions in this verse?
A: From Yitzchak's actions, we learn the importance of perseverance and faith in Hashem. Despite facing challenges like the Philistines filling his wells (Genesis 26:15), Yitzchak did not respond with anger but instead moved forward. The Rambam (Hilchot De'ot 1:4) teaches that Yitzchak's behavior exemplifies the trait of humility and avoiding unnecessary conflict, which we should strive to emulate in our own lives.
Q: Why does the Torah mention that Yitzchak 'pitched' (וַיִּחַן) in the valley of Gerar?
A: Rashi (Genesis 26:17) notes that the word 'וַיִּחַן' (pitched) comes from the same root as 'חֵן' (grace or favor), suggesting that Yitzchak found favor in the eyes of the people of Gerar. This teaches us that even in difficult circumstances, a righteous person like Yitzchak can influence others positively and create peaceful relationships, as seen later when Avimelech makes a covenant with him (Genesis 26:28-29).