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Genesis 30:43 - Jacob's divinely blessed prosperity

Genesis 30:43 - בראשית 30:43

Hebrew Text

וַיִּפְרֹץ הָאִישׁ מְאֹד מְאֹד וַיְהִי־לוֹ צֹאן רַבּוֹת וּשְׁפָחוֹת וַעֲבָדִים וּגְמַלִּים וַחֲמֹרִים׃

English Translation

And the man increased exceedingly, and had much cattle, and maidservants, and menservants, and camels, and asses.

Transliteration

Va'yifrotz ha'ish me'od me'od va'yehi lo tzon rabot ush'fachot va'avadim ug'malim vachamorim.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיִּפְרֹ֥ץ הָאִ֖ישׁ מְאֹ֣ד מְאֹ֑ד וַֽיְהִי־לוֹ֙ צֹ֣אן רַבּ֔וֹת וּשְׁפָחוֹת֙ וַעֲבָדִ֔ים וּגְמַלִּ֖ים וַחֲמֹרִֽים׃
וַיִּפְרֹ֥ץ הָאִ֖ישׁ מְאֹ֣ד מְאֹ֑ד וַֽיְהִי־לוֹ֙ צֹ֣אן רַבּ֔וֹת וּשְׁפָחוֹת֙ וַעֲבָדִ֔ים וּגְמַלִּ֖ים וַחֲמֹרִֽים׃

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Parasha Commentary

Explanation of the Verse

The verse describes the tremendous material prosperity of Yaakov Avinu (Jacob our forefather) upon his return to Eretz Yisrael (the Land of Israel). The phrase "וַיִּפְרֹץ הָאִישׁ מְאֹד מְאֹד" ("And the man increased exceedingly") emphasizes the extraordinary nature of his wealth, which was a fulfillment of the blessings he received from Hashem (Bereshit 28:14).

Rashi's Commentary

Rashi (Bereshit 30:43) explains that Yaakov's wealth was not merely a result of natural success but was a direct blessing from Hashem. The doubling of the word "מְאֹד מְאֹד" ("exceedingly") indicates that his prosperity was beyond the ordinary measure, reflecting divine intervention.

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Hilchot De'ot 3:11) teaches that material wealth, when used properly, can be a means to serve Hashem. Yaakov's accumulation of livestock and servants was not for personal aggrandizement but to fulfill his role as a leader and provider for his family, in line with his spiritual mission.

Midrashic Insights

  • The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 73:7) notes that Yaakov's wealth was a reward for his integrity during his years of labor with Lavan. Despite Lavan's deceit, Yaakov remained honest, and Hashem blessed him accordingly.
  • Another Midrash (Tanchuma Vayetze 12) highlights that Yaakov's camels and donkeys were not just ordinary animals—they were of exceptional quality, symbolizing the refinement of his character and his elevated spiritual status.

Symbolism of the Possessions

The specific mention of צֹאן (sheep), שְׁפָחוֹת וַעֲבָדִים (maidservants and menservants), גְּמַלִּים (camels), and חֲמֹרִים (donkeys) reflects different aspects of Yaakov's success:

  • Sheep: Represent his primary source of wealth, as he was a shepherd.
  • Servants: Indicate his growing household and leadership.
  • Camels and Donkeys: Symbolize his ability to travel and trade, expanding his influence.

Lesson for Today

This verse teaches that material success, when aligned with divine will and ethical conduct, can be a vessel for holiness. Yaakov's prosperity was not an end in itself but a means to sustain his family and fulfill his role in the divine plan.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Genesis 30:43 mean when it says Yaakov 'increased exceedingly'?
A: The verse describes how Yaakov (Jacob) became very wealthy through divine blessing and his hard work. Rashi explains that this was a fulfillment of Hashem's promise to protect and prosper Yaakov (Genesis 28:15). The phrase 'increased exceedingly' shows that his wealth grew in an extraordinary way.
Q: Why does the Torah list Yaakov's possessions like sheep, servants, and camels?
A: Listing these possessions shows the extent of Yaakov's blessings. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 73:11) teaches that each type of possession represents a different aspect of his success - the sheep were from his clever breeding methods (Genesis 30:37-42), while the servants and camels show he became an important, influential person.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Yaakov becoming wealthy in Genesis 30:43?
A: The Ramban teaches that this verse shows Hashem rewards those who act with integrity, even in difficult situations. Though Yaakov worked under unfair conditions for Lavan, he remained honest and was ultimately blessed. This teaches that success comes through hard work combined with trust in Hashem.
Q: How does Yaakov's wealth growth apply to us today?
A: The Talmud (Taanit 9a) derives from this that blessing comes primarily through one's efforts. Like Yaakov who actively bred the sheep while trusting in Hashem, we must combine hishtadlut (proper effort) with emunah (faith). This balance remains relevant in business and life today.
Q: Why does the verse emphasize that Yaakov became wealthy 'exceedingly'?
A: The double language 'me'od me'od' teaches his wealth was beyond normal measures. The Kli Yakar explains this shows that when Hashem blesses, it's in abundance. This connects to the concept of 'beracha' (blessing) which implies increase beyond natural limits when it comes from divine source.