share torah logo

Genesis 30:27 - Divine blessing through righteousness?

Genesis 30:27 - בראשית 30:27

Hebrew Text

וַיֹּאמֶר אֵלָיו לָבָן אִם־נָא מָצָאתִי חֵן בְּעֵינֶיךָ נִחַשְׁתִּי וַיְבָרֲכֵנִי יְהוָה בִּגְלָלֶךָ׃

English Translation

And Lavan said to him, I pray thee, if I have found favour in thine eyes, I have learned by signs that the Lord has blessed me for thy sake.

Transliteration

Va'yomer elav Lavan im-na matzati chen b'eineicha nichashti va'yevarecheini Adonai biglalecha.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֵלָיו֙ לָבָ֔ן אִם־נָ֛א מָצָ֥אתִי חֵ֖ן בְּעֵינֶ֑יךָ נִחַ֕שְׁתִּי וַיְבָרְכֵ֥נִי יְהֹוָ֖ה בִּגְלָלֶֽךָ׃
וַיֹּ֤אמֶר אֵלָיו֙ לָבָ֔ן אִם־נָ֛א מָצָ֥אתִי חֵ֖ן בְּעֵינֶ֑יךָ נִחַ֕שְׁתִּי וַיְבָרְכֵ֥נִי יְהֹוָ֖ה בִּגְלָלֶֽךָ׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Understanding the Verse in Context

The verse (Bereishit 30:27) records Lavan's acknowledgment to Yaakov that he has prospered due to Yaakov's presence. Lavan, despite his deceitful nature (as seen later in the narrative), recognizes that Hashem has blessed him on Yaakov's merit. This reflects the principle of zechut avot (merit of the forefathers) and the idea that the righteous bring blessing to those around them.

Rashi's Commentary

Rashi explains the phrase "נִחַשְׁתִּי" (nichashti) as deriving from the root nachash, meaning "divination" or "omens." Lavan, who engaged in idolatrous practices (as hinted in Bereishit 31:19), claims to have used divination to recognize that his prosperity was tied to Yaakov. However, Rashi emphasizes that Lavan's methods were flawed, as true blessing comes from Hashem, not superstition.

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Hilchot Avodat Kochavim 11:16) categorically prohibits divination, reinforcing that Lavan's approach was antithetical to Torah values. Despite this, Hashem allowed Lavan to perceive the truth—that Yaakov's righteousness was the source of his success—to highlight Divine providence (hashgacha pratit).

Midrashic Insights

  • Midrash Rabbah (Bereishit 73:7) states that Lavan's flocks multiplied miraculously while Yaakov tended them, demonstrating that "the righteous are the foundation of the world" (Mishlei 10:25).
  • The Midrash also contrasts Lavan's selfish motives ("בִּגְלָלֶךָ—for your sake") with Yaakov's humility, teaching that blessings are channeled through those who serve Hashem sincerely.

Ibn Ezra's Linguistic Analysis

Ibn Ezra notes that "נִחַשְׁתִּי" can also mean "I have observed through experience," suggesting Lavan recognized a tangible pattern of blessing. This aligns with the Talmudic principle (Ta'anit 9a) that "the wealth of the wicked is stored for the righteous," as Yaakov ultimately acquired Lavan's flocks through Divine justice.

Halachic Implications

The verse underscores the prohibition of nichush (divination) while affirming that Hashem's blessings are manifest through the deeds of the righteous. As the Ramban explains, Lavan's admission serves as a testimony to Yaakov's spiritual influence, reinforcing the Torah's ideal that material success is secondary to Divine favor.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Lavan mean when he says 'I have learned by signs' in Genesis 30:27?
A: Rashi explains that Lavan used divination (nichush) to determine that he was being blessed because of Yaakov's presence. However, divination is forbidden by the Torah (Devarim 18:10), showing that Lavan still held onto superstitious practices despite recognizing Hashem's blessings.
Q: Why did Lavan say Hashem blessed him 'for your sake' (Yaakov's sake)?
A: The Midrash (Bereishis Rabbah 73:7) teaches that Lavan acknowledged that all the wealth and success in his household came only because of Yaakov's merit and hard work. This shows how righteous individuals bring blessings to those around them.
Q: How can we apply the lesson of Genesis 30:27 today?
A: This verse teaches us to recognize and acknowledge when blessings come through others' merits. Just as Lavan (though reluctantly) admitted Yaakov was the source of his prosperity, we should appreciate how righteous people and good influences bring blessings into our lives.
Q: Why does the Torah mention Lavan's divination ('nichush') if it's forbidden?
A: The Rambam (Hilchos Avodas Kochavim 11:4) explains that the Torah mentions this to show Lavan's flawed character - even while recognizing Hashem's blessings, he clung to forbidden practices. This contrasts with Yaakov's complete devotion to Hashem.
Q: What is the significance of Lavan saying 'if I have found favor in your eyes'?
A: Ibn Ezra notes this shows Lavan's hypocrisy - after treating Yaakov poorly for years, he suddenly speaks respectfully when he realizes his own benefit. This teaches us about insincere flattery versus genuine appreciation of others.