Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'the angel of God spoke to me in a dream' mean in Genesis 31:11?
A: In Genesis 31:11, Jacob recounts how an angel of Hashem communicated with him in a dream. According to Rashi, this angel was sent to reassure Jacob of Hashem's protection and to confirm that his actions regarding Laban's flocks were divinely guided. Dreams were a common way for Hashem to communicate with the righteous in the Torah.
Q: Why did Jacob respond 'Here I am' (Hineni) to the angel in Genesis 31:11?
A: Jacob's response 'Hineni' (Here I am) demonstrates his readiness and humility before Hashem's messenger. The Midrash teaches that 'Hineni' is the response of tzaddikim (righteous people) when called by Hashem, showing their willingness to listen and fulfill divine will, as seen with Avraham and Moshe as well.
Q: What is the significance of angels appearing in dreams in the Torah?
A: In the Torah, angels often appear in dreams to deliver messages from Hashem, as seen with Jacob in Genesis 31:11. The Rambam explains that dream prophecy is a lower level of divine communication, where the message is conveyed symbolically or through an intermediary like an angel. This shows Hashem's guidance even when we are not fully conscious.
Q: How does Genesis 31:11 relate to Jacob's situation with Laban?
A: Genesis 31:11 occurs when Jacob is preparing to leave Laban's household. According to Rashi, the angel's message affirmed that Hashem saw Laban's deception and would protect Jacob. This divine reassurance gave Jacob the confidence to return to Eretz Yisrael, showing that Hashem supports those who follow righteousness even in difficult circumstances.
Q: Can we still receive messages from angels or dreams today?
A: While open prophecy and direct angelic communication like in Jacob's time no longer exist, the Talmud (Berachot 57b) teaches that dreams can contain elements of truth or divine inspiration. However, Orthodox Judaism emphasizes following the Torah and halacha (Jewish law) as our primary guidance, not relying on dreams or supernatural signs.
The Nature of Divine Communication in Dreams
This verse (Genesis 31:11) describes Yaakov's encounter with the malach Elokim (angel of God) in a dream. According to Rashi, this angel was sent to protect Yaakov during his time with Lavan, as hinted in the previous verse (Genesis 31:10). The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 73:6) explains that angels often serve as divine messengers to deliver prophecies or guidance, particularly during moments of vulnerability, such as sleep.
Yaakov's Response: "Hineni"
Yaakov's immediate response—"Hineni" (Here I am)—demonstrates his readiness to receive divine instruction. Ramban (Nachmanides) notes that this response mirrors Avraham's answer to Hashem during the Akeidah (Genesis 22:1), indicating Yaakov's unwavering devotion. The Talmud (Berachot 55b) teaches that dreams are a form of minor prophecy, and responding with "Hineni" reflects proper spiritual attentiveness.
The Role of the Angel
The Malbim explains that the angel here serves as an intermediary to reinforce Hashem's promise to Yaakov, ensuring his safe return to Eretz Yisrael. The Midrash Tanchuma (Vayeitzei 12) suggests that this angel was the same sar (guardian angel) of Eretz Yisrael, emphasizing the divine protection over Yaakov's journey.
Lessons in Divine Providence