Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did Yaakov (Jacob) put his wives and children on camels in Genesis 31:17?
A: According to Rashi, Yaakov was preparing to leave Lavan's (Laban's) house quickly and secretly. The camels were used for transportation to ensure a swift departure, as Yaakov was concerned that Lavan might try to stop him from leaving with his family and possessions.
Q: What is the significance of Yaakov taking his family away from Lavan in this verse?
A: This moment marks the fulfillment of Hashem's command to Yaakov to return to his homeland (Genesis 31:3). The Torah emphasizes Yaakov's decisive action to obey Hashem by gathering his family, showing his commitment to fulfilling the divine will and establishing his household in Eretz Yisrael (the Land of Israel).
Q: Why does the Torah mention that Yaakov placed his wives and children on camels specifically?
A: The Midrash notes that camels were the most practical means of long-distance travel in that era. Additionally, the mention of camels highlights Yaakov's newfound wealth (as camels were valuable), showing how Hashem blessed him despite Lavan's attempts to deceive him (Genesis 31:7).
Q: What lesson can we learn from Yaakov's actions in this verse?
A: The Rambam teaches that Yaakov's swift obedience to Hashem's command demonstrates the importance of acting decisively when fulfilling mitzvot (commandments). Even when facing potential danger from Lavan, Yaakov didn't delay in doing what was right, setting an example of faith and action for future generations.
Q: How does this verse connect to the broader story of Yaakov and Lavan?
A: This verse represents the climax of Yaakov's 20-year stay with Lavan. After working under difficult conditions and being tricked repeatedly, Yaakov finally takes initiative to leave with his rightful family and possessions, as promised by Hashem. The Talmud (Megillah 13b) sees this as a turning point where Yaakov fully establishes his independent household.
Rashi's Commentary on Yaakov's Actions
Rashi (Bereshit 31:17) explains that the phrase "וַיָּקָם יַעֲקֹב" ("Then Yaakov rose up") indicates that Yaakov acted with haste and urgency when leaving Lavan's household. This demonstrates his desire to fulfill Hashem's command (mentioned in Bereshit 31:3) to return to Eretz Yisrael without delay. Rashi further notes that Yaakov placed his wives and children on camels because they were the most honorable mode of transportation available, showing his care for their dignity.
Ibn Ezra on the Order of Placement
Ibn Ezra observes that the verse mentions "his sons" before "his wives," contrary to the usual order where wives are mentioned first (as in Bereshit 30:26). He suggests this reversal indicates Yaakov's primary concern was ensuring the safety of his children, who represented the future of Klal Yisrael, before attending to his wives' transportation needs.
Midrashic Insights
Rambam's Perspective on Family Responsibility
In light of Hilchos Ishus 15:19, Rambam would view this verse as exemplifying a husband's halachic obligation to provide for his family's safe travel. Yaakov personally oversaw their boarding rather than delegating, demonstrating the importance of direct involvement in family welfare.
Chassidic Interpretation
The Sefas Emes notes that the elevation of Yaakov's family onto camels (from the root ג.מ.ל., meaning both "camel" and "to wean") symbolizes their spiritual transition - being "weaned" from Lavan's idolatrous environment and elevated toward kedushah as they journeyed toward Eretz Yisrael.