Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why does the Torah mention that Rachel was tending her father's sheep?
A: The Torah highlights Rachel's diligence and responsibility in shepherding her father's flock, showing her righteous character. Rashi explains that this detail is mentioned to teach us about her modesty and hardworking nature, qualities that made her suitable to become one of the matriarchs of the Jewish people.
Q: What is the significance of Rachel arriving while Jacob was speaking with the shepherds?
A: The Midrash teaches that this timing was divinely orchestrated. Rachel's arrival at that moment was part of Hashem's plan to bring Jacob and Rachel together, setting the stage for their marriage and the future tribes of Israel. It shows how Divine Providence guides events in the lives of our forefathers and foremothers.
Q: Why does the verse emphasize that the sheep belonged to Rachel's father?
A: The Talmud (Megillah 13a) learns from this that Rachel was exceptionally honest - she carefully watched over her father's property even though she could have taken advantage. This teaches us the importance of being trustworthy with others' possessions, especially family members' belongings.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Rachel being a shepherdess?
A: The Rambam (Hilchos De'os 2:3) explains that tending sheep develops good character traits like patience, compassion and responsibility. Rachel's role as a shepherdess prepared her for motherhood, as she learned to care for others with kindness - a quality essential for raising the future tribes of Israel.
Q: How does this verse connect to Jewish values about work?
A: This verse demonstrates the Jewish value of honest labor. Despite coming from an important family (as Lavan's daughter), Rachel worked diligently rather than relying on others. The Talmud (Nedarim 49b) praises those who support themselves through their own labor, showing that work is dignified when done properly.
Context in the Torah
The verse (Bereshit 29:9) describes the moment when Yaakov first encounters Rachel, his future wife, as she arrives with her father Lavan's flock. This occurs shortly after Yaakov's arrival in Charan, where he seeks refuge from Esav and begins his journey to establish the future tribes of Israel.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi explains that Rachel was tending her father's sheep because Lavan had no sons at that time (as implied by the phrase "asher le'aviha"—"which were her father's"). This demonstrates Rachel's righteousness, as she took on the physically demanding role of shepherding out of necessity. Rashi also notes that the Torah emphasizes "odenu medaber imam" ("while he was still speaking with them") to show Divine Providence—the timing was orchestrated by Hashem so Yaakov would meet Rachel immediately.
Midrashic Insights
Halachic and Ethical Lessons
Rambam (Hilchos Ishus 13:1-3) derives from this episode that one should evaluate a potential spouse based on their character and diligence. Rachel's dedication to her responsibilities—despite being the daughter of a wealthy man—demonstrates her suitability as a matriarch of Klal Yisrael.
Symbolism of the Flock
Rabbeinu Bachya notes that Rachel's shepherding foreshadows her future descendants—David HaMelech and Mashiach—who are described as shepherds of Israel. The flock also symbolizes the Jewish people, whom the matriarchs and patriarchs guided with care.