Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did Yitzchak (Isaac) build an altar in Genesis 26:25?
A: Yitzchak built an altar to express gratitude to Hashem (G-d) for allowing him to dwell peacefully in the land despite the challenges he faced (like the disputes over wells). Building altars was a way for our forefathers to connect with G-d, as Rashi explains (on Genesis 12:8) that Avraham and Yitzchak would call out in G-d's name to spread monotheism.
Q: What does it mean that Yitzchak 'called upon the name of the Lord'?
A: This means Yitzchak publicly proclaimed his faith in Hashem, likely through prayer or teaching others about G-d. The Ramban (Genesis 12:8) explains that our forefathers would inspire people to believe in Hashem, and Yitzchak continued this tradition by declaring G-d's name in that place.
Q: Why did Yitzchak's servants dig a well after he built the altar?
A: The well symbolizes sustenance and divine blessing. After establishing a spiritual connection with Hashem (through the altar and prayer), Yitzchak was granted material success. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 64:8) teaches that the wells dug by Yitzchak’s servants represent the future Holy Temples, showing that spirituality (altar) and physical needs (wells) are connected in serving G-d.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Yitzchak pitching his tent near the altar?
A: Yitzchak teaches us to make Torah and avodah (service of G-d) central to our lives. Just as he placed his dwelling near the altar (symbolizing prayer and sacrifice), we should structure our homes around Torah values. The Talmud (Berachot 8a) emphasizes that a person’s home should be a place where G-d’s presence dwells, just as Yitzchak demonstrated.
Q: Why is this verse important in understanding Yitzchak's character?
A: This verse shows Yitzchak’s commitment to continuing Avraham’s legacy of spreading belief in Hashem. Unlike Avraham, who traveled extensively, Yitzchak focused on deepening his connection to G-d in one place—symbolizing stability in faith. Rashi (on Genesis 26:18) highlights that Yitzchak redigging Avraham’s wells signifies restoring the spiritual foundations of his father.
Building the Altar
The verse states, "And he built an altar there" (וַיִּבֶן שָׁם מִזְבֵּחַ). Rashi explains that Yitzchak (Isaac) built this altar in the same location where his father Avraham had previously built an altar (as mentioned in Bereishit 12:7). This teaches us the importance of continuity in avodat Hashem (service of G-d) and the sanctity of places where our forefathers worshipped. The Ramban adds that Yitzchak's actions reflect his commitment to perpetuating his father's spiritual legacy.
Calling Upon the Name of Hashem
The phrase "and called upon the name of the Lord" (וַיִּקְרָא בְּשֵׁם יְהוָה) is interpreted by the Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 64:4) as Yitzchak engaging in public prayer and proclaiming Hashem's sovereignty. The Sforno explains that this act was meant to inspire others to recognize and serve G-d, demonstrating Yitzchak's role as a spiritual leader.
Pitching His Tent
The verse continues, "and pitched his tent there" (וַיֶּט־שָׁם אָהֳלוֹ). The Kli Yakar notes that the word "אָהֳלוֹ" (his tent) is singular, unlike Avraham's plural "אֹהָלָיו" (his tents), suggesting that Yitzchak focused on establishing a single, unified household dedicated to Torah and mitzvot. This reflects his unwavering commitment to a life of holiness.
Digging the Well
The final part of the verse states, "and there Yitzchak’s servants dug a well" (וַיִּכְרוּ־שָׁם עַבְדֵי־יִצְחָק בְּאֵר). The Talmud (Sanhedrin 111a) connects this well to the concept of Torah, as water symbolizes Torah wisdom. The Malbim explains that the digging of the well represents Yitzchak's efforts to reveal hidden spiritual truths and sustain his household with divine wisdom. Additionally, the Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 64:6) sees this as a metaphor for the future Beit Hamikdash (Holy Temple), which would be a source of spiritual sustenance for all of Israel.
Summary of Key Lessons