Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did Rivka tell Yaakov to flee to Lavan?
A: Rivka told Yaakov to flee to her brother Lavan in Charan to protect him from Esav's anger after Yaakov received the blessings from Yitzchak. She knew Esav wanted to kill Yaakov (Genesis 27:41-42), and this was a way to keep him safe until Esav's anger subsided (Rashi on Genesis 27:43).
Q: What is the significance of Yaakov going to Charan?
A: Charan was significant because it was the home of Rivka's family, where Yaakov would eventually find a wife (as Avraham instructed for Yitzchak in Genesis 24). Additionally, this journey began Yaakov's personal growth and tests, leading to the formation of the 12 tribes (Midrash Bereishit Rabbah 68:6).
Q: How does Rivka's advice to Yaakov apply to us today?
A: Rivka's advice teaches the importance of seeking wise counsel and taking practical steps for safety when facing danger. The Talmud (Pesachim 2a) discusses the value of foresight and precaution, showing that we should act wisely to avoid harm, just as Rivka guided Yaakov.
Q: Why did Rivka say 'obey my voice' instead of just telling Yaakov what to do?
A: Rivka emphasized 'obey my voice' to stress the urgency and importance of listening to her advice. Rashi explains that this phrasing shows maternal concern and wisdom—she knew what was best for Yaakov's survival and future (Rashi on Genesis 27:43).
Q: Was Lavan a good person for Yaakov to stay with?
A: Although Lavan was family, the Torah later reveals he was deceitful (Genesis 29-31). However, Rivka sent Yaakov there because it was the safest option at the time, and it was part of Hashem's plan for Yaakov to build his family and learn important life lessons (Midrash Tanchuma, Vayeitzei 4).
Context of the Verse
This verse (Genesis 27:43) is part of Rivka's (Rebecca's) instruction to her son Yaakov (Jacob) to flee from his brother Esav (Esau), who sought to kill him after Yaakov received the blessings from their father Yitzchak (Isaac). Rivka advises Yaakov to seek refuge with her brother Lavan (Laban) in Charan.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi explains that Rivka's instruction, "שְׁמַע בְּקֹלִי" ("obey my voice"), emphasizes the urgency of the situation. He notes that Rivka was acting with divine inspiration (ruach hakodesh), as she foresaw the danger Yaakov faced from Esav. Rashi also highlights that Rivka's choice of words, "בְנִי" ("my son"), conveys her deep maternal concern for Yaakov's safety.
Ramban's Insight
The Ramban (Nachmanides) adds that Rivka's directive to flee to Lavan was not merely for physical protection but also to ensure Yaakov's spiritual continuity. By sending him to her family in Charan, Rivka intended for Yaakov to find a suitable wife from their lineage, thus fulfilling the divine promise to Avraham (Abraham) of establishing a chosen nation.
Midrashic Perspectives
Theological Significance
This verse underscores the theme of divine providence (hashgacha pratit), as Rivka's actions align with HaShem's greater plan for Yaakov. Her wisdom in sending Yaakov away not only saved his life but also set the stage for the formation of Bnei Yisrael (the Children of Israel). The Talmud (Megillah 17a) later reflects on how Rivka's foresight exemplifies the role of righteous women in shaping Jewish destiny.