Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Yaakov mean when he says 'Give me my wife, for my days are fulfilled'?
A: According to Rashi, Yaakov had worked seven years for Rachel as agreed with Lavan, and now that the time was complete, he rightfully demanded his wife. The phrase 'my days are fulfilled' refers to the completion of the seven years of labor he promised in exchange for marrying Rachel (Genesis 29:18).
Q: Why did Yaakov have to work for seven years to marry Rachel?
A: The Torah teaches that Yaakov loved Rachel deeply and agreed to work for seven years as a bride price (Genesis 29:18). This was a common practice in ancient times, and the Talmud (Kiddushin 2a) discusses how such agreements for marriage were valid. Yaakov's commitment shows his dedication and integrity in fulfilling his word.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Yaakov's patience in waiting for Rachel?
A: Yaakov's willingness to work patiently for seven years teaches the importance of commitment, perseverance, and trusting in Hashem's plan. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 70:12) highlights that the years seemed like days to Yaakov because of his love for Rachel, showing that true dedication makes challenges easier to bear.
Q: How does this verse relate to Jewish marriage (kiddushin) today?
A: While modern Jewish marriage doesn't require seven years of labor, the principle of mutual commitment and proper agreements (kiddushin) remains. The Shulchan Aruch (Even HaEzer 26-66) outlines the halachic process of marriage, emphasizing honesty and clear terms—values demonstrated in Yaakov's dealings with Lavan.
Q: Why does Yaakov say 'that I may go in to her'?
A: The phrase 'that I may go in to her' is a respectful biblical expression for marital relations (see Rashi on Genesis 29:21). The Rambam (Hilchos Ishus 1:4) explains that marriage in Judaism sanctifies the relationship, and Yaakov's wording reflects the Torah's emphasis on modesty and the sacred bond between husband and wife.
Context of the Verse
The verse (Bereshit 29:21) occurs after Yaakov has worked seven years for Lavan in exchange for marrying Rachel. However, Lavan deceives Yaakov by giving him Leah instead. Yaakov, realizing the deception, confronts Lavan and demands his rightful wife, Rachel.
Yaakov's Demand: "Give Me My Wife"
Rashi explains that Yaakov's demand, "הָבָה אֶת־אִשְׁתִּי" ("Give me my wife"), refers specifically to Rachel, whom he had rightfully earned through his seven years of labor. The term "אִשְׁתִּי" ("my wife") emphasizes that Yaakov viewed Rachel as his betrothed even before the marriage was consummated, as the labor was a form of kiddushin (betrothal).
"For My Days Are Fulfilled"
The phrase "כִּי מָלְאוּ יָמָי" ("for my days are fulfilled") is interpreted in multiple ways:
"That I May Go In to Her"
The phrase "וְאָבוֹאָה אֵלֶיהָ" ("that I may go in to her") is understood literally as referring to marital relations, but deeper interpretations exist:
Lavan's Deception and Yaakov's Righteousness
The confrontation highlights the contrast between Yaakov's integrity and Lavan's trickery. The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 70:19) notes that Yaakov's demand was just, as he had fulfilled his obligations, while Lavan's actions were characteristic of his deceitful nature, as seen later in the narrative.