Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 3:15 mean in Jewish tradition?
A: In Jewish tradition, Genesis 3:15 refers to the ongoing struggle between good and evil, symbolized by the enmity between the descendants of the serpent (evil inclinations) and the descendants of Eve (humanity). Rashi explains that this verse hints at humanity's constant battle against the yetzer hara (evil inclination), where good will ultimately prevail by 'bruising the head' (overcoming evil at its source), while evil can only 'bruise the heel' (cause temporary setbacks).
Q: Why is the 'seed of the woman' mentioned in Genesis 3:15?
A: The 'seed of the woman' refers to humanity as a whole, particularly those who follow the path of righteousness. The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah) explains that this hints at the future struggle between good and evil, where righteous individuals will ultimately overcome evil influences. Rambam (Maimonides) also discusses this in the context of humanity's moral responsibility to choose good over evil.
Q: How does Genesis 3:15 apply to our lives today?
A: This verse teaches that the struggle between good and evil is ongoing in every generation. The Talmud (Sukkah 52a) discusses how the yetzer hara (evil inclination) constantly challenges us, but through Torah study and mitzvot, we can overcome it. The verse reminds us that while evil may cause temporary harm ('bruising the heel'), righteousness will ultimately prevail ('bruising the head').
Q: What is the significance of the serpent in Genesis 3:15?
A: In Jewish tradition, the serpent represents the yetzer hara (evil inclination) that tempts people to sin (as explained in Rashi and the Talmud, Yoma 69b). The enmity between the serpent and humanity symbolizes the perpetual moral struggle each person faces. The Sages teach that the serpent was punished by being made to crawl on its belly, showing that evil will ultimately be subdued.
Q: Does Genesis 3:15 refer to a future Messiah in Jewish thought?
A: While some later Jewish commentaries (like certain Midrashim) may connect this verse to the ultimate victory of good over evil in the messianic era, the primary Jewish interpretation focuses on the ongoing moral struggle of all humanity against evil. The Rambam emphasizes personal responsibility in overcoming the yetzer hara rather than viewing this as a specific prophecy about the Messiah.
Orthodox Jewish Commentary on Bereishit 3:15
The verse "וְאֵיבָה אָשִׁית בֵּינְךָ וּבֵין הָאִשָּׁה וּבֵין זַרְעֲךָ וּבֵין זַרְעָהּ הוּא יְשׁוּפְךָ רֹאשׁ וְאַתָּה תְּשׁוּפֶנּוּ עָקֵב" ("And I will put enmity between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring; he will bruise your head, and you will bruise his heel") is understood in traditional Jewish sources as a prophecy regarding the ongoing struggle between good and evil, particularly between the descendants of Adam and Chavah (Eve) and the forces of the nachash (serpent), representing the yetzer hara (evil inclination).
Key Interpretations from Classical Sources:
Theological Significance:
This verse establishes several key concepts in Jewish thought:
Traditional commentators emphasize that this struggle plays out both on the national level (Israel vs. its enemies) and the personal level (each individual's battle with their yetzer hara). The promise of ultimate victory serves as encouragement for moral perseverance.