Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 26:31 mean when it says 'they swore one to another'?
A: This verse describes Avimelech and his general making a peace treaty with Yitzchak (Isaac) after their dispute over wells. The oath they swore was a binding agreement to live in peace, showing the importance of resolving conflicts through mutual understanding and commitment (Rashi on Genesis 26:31).
Q: Why did Yitzchak and Avimelech make this oath early in the morning?
A: According to Jewish tradition, important matters like treaties should be done early in the morning when people are clear-headed and sincere (Berachot 14b). The morning also symbolizes new beginnings, appropriate for establishing peace (Midrash Tanchuma, Vayera 22).
Q: What can we learn from Yitzchak sending Avimelech away in peace?
A: This teaches the Jewish value of pursuing peace (darchei shalom). Even after conflicts, we should part ways peacefully when possible. The Rambam (Hilchot Melachim 6:1) derives from this that Jews should seek peaceful relations with neighbors when there's no danger to Jewish life or observance.
Q: How does this verse about making peace apply today?
A: Just as Yitzchak and Avimelech overcame their differences through dialogue and commitment, we're taught to actively pursue peaceful resolutions in disputes (Pirkei Avot 1:12). The Talmud (Sanhedrin 6b) praises those who make peace between parties.
Q: Why is the phrase 'they departed from him in peace' significant?
A: This shows the treaty was sincere and successful. In Jewish thought, true peace isn't just absence of conflict, but positive harmony (Rambam, Hilchot Chanukah 4:14). The Torah emphasizes this peaceful resolution because it models ideal conflict resolution for future generations.
Context of the Verse
This verse (Bereshit 26:31) describes the resolution of a conflict between Yitzchak (Isaac) and Avimelech, king of the Philistines, after disputes over wells and land rights. The oath they take signifies a covenant of peace, ensuring mutual respect and non-aggression.
Early Morning Oath (וַיַּשְׁכִּימוּ בַבֹּקֶר וַיִּשָּׁבְעוּ)
Rashi explains that rising early in the morning demonstrates their eagerness to establish peace, as delaying such matters could lead to further strife (Rashi on Bereshit 26:31). The Midrash Tanchuma (Toldot 12) adds that swearing in the morning symbolizes clarity and sincerity, as the dawn represents a new beginning free from deception.
Mutual Oath (אִישׁ לְאָחִיו)
The phrase "אִישׁ לְאָחִיו" (each to his brother) emphasizes reciprocity. The Ramban (Nachmanides) notes that this was not a one-sided agreement but a bilateral covenant, binding both Yitzchak and Avimelech equally (Ramban on Bereshit 26:31). The Talmud (Shevuot 39a) teaches that oaths taken in mutual trust are especially sacred and binding.
Departure in Peace (וַיֵּלְכוּ מֵאִתּוֹ בְּשָׁלוֹם)
The Sforno highlights that true peace ("שָׁלוֹם") is not merely the absence of conflict but a state of harmony where both parties part ways with goodwill (Sforno on Bereshit 26:31). The Midrash Rabbah (Bereshit Rabbah 64:9) connects this to the broader principle that peace is among the greatest virtues, as it allows for divine blessings to flourish.
Lessons from the Verse