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Genesis 31:6 - Loyalty despite hardship?

Genesis 31:6 - בראשית 31:6

Hebrew Text

וְאַתֵּנָה יְדַעְתֶּן כִּי בְּכָל־כֹּחִי עָבַדְתִּי אֶת־אֲבִיכֶן׃

English Translation

And you know that with all my power I have served your father.

Transliteration

Ve'atenah yeda'ten ki bechol-kochi avadeti et-avi'khen.

Hebrew Leining Text

וְאַתֵּ֖נָה יְדַעְתֶּ֑ן כִּ֚י בְּכׇל־כֹּחִ֔י עָבַ֖דְתִּי אֶת־אֲבִיכֶֽן׃
וְאַתֵּ֖נָה יְדַעְתֶּ֑ן כִּ֚י בְּכׇל־כֹּחִ֔י עָבַ֖דְתִּי אֶת־אֲבִיכֶֽן׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

This verse (Genesis 31:6) is part of Yaakov's (Jacob's) speech to Rachel and Leah, where he recounts his years of service to their father, Lavan (Laban). Yaakov emphasizes his unwavering dedication and hard work despite Lavan's deceitful behavior.

Rashi's Commentary

Rashi explains that Yaakov is reminding Rachel and Leah of his complete devotion to their father, despite Lavan's attempts to cheat him repeatedly. The phrase "בְּכָל־כֹּחִי" ("with all my power") underscores that Yaakov served Lavan with his full physical and spiritual strength, fulfilling his responsibilities beyond the bare minimum.

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Maimonides) highlights the ethical dimension of Yaakov's statement. In Hilchos De'os (Laws of Character Traits), he teaches that a person must fulfill their obligations with sincerity and integrity, even when dealing with dishonest individuals. Yaakov's conduct serves as a model for maintaining righteousness in challenging circumstances.

Midrashic Insights

The Midrash (Bereishis Rabbah 74:7) elaborates that Yaakov's service was not merely physical labor but also included spiritual devotion. Even while tending Lavan's flocks, Yaakov remained focused on his higher purpose, ensuring the animals were healthy and ethically managed—a reflection of his commitment to tikkun olam (perfecting the world).

Lessons from the Talmud

  • Work Ethic: The Talmud (Avodah Zarah 17a) praises Yaakov's diligence, teaching that one must labor honestly and wholeheartedly, as if working for the Divine.
  • Trust in Hashem: Yaakov's words also hint at his reliance on Hashem's protection, as his efforts alone could not have succeeded without divine assistance (Sotah 12a).

Chassidic Interpretation

The Chassidic masters (e.g., the Sfas Emes) interpret "בְּכָל־כֹּחִי" as Yaakov channeling all his spiritual energy into mundane tasks, elevating them into acts of divine service. His labor was not just for Lavan's benefit but part of a greater mission to bring holiness into the physical world.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Genesis 31:6 mean when Jacob says 'with all my power I have served your father'?
A: In Genesis 31:6, Jacob is speaking to his wives, Rachel and Leah, reminding them how faithfully he worked for their father Laban despite Laban's deceitful behavior. Rashi explains that Jacob served Laban with complete dedication, even in tasks that were beyond normal expectations, showing his integrity and commitment to fulfilling his responsibilities.
Q: Why is Jacob's statement in Genesis 31:6 important?
A: Jacob's statement highlights the importance of honesty and hard work, even when dealing with someone who is dishonest. The Talmud (Megillah 13b) teaches that Jacob's righteousness was evident in how he fulfilled his obligations despite Laban's trickery. This verse emphasizes that ethical behavior should not depend on how others treat us.
Q: What can we learn from Jacob's dedication in Genesis 31:6?
A: We learn the value of integrity and perseverance from Jacob's example. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 74:12) notes that Jacob worked diligently for Laban despite unfair treatment, teaching us to uphold our commitments with sincerity. This applies today in business, family, and personal relationships—doing what is right regardless of circumstances.
Q: How does Genesis 31:6 apply to our work ethic today?
A: Jacob's words remind us to work honestly and diligently, even if our employer or situation is difficult. Rambam (Hilchot Sechirut 13:7) teaches that an employee must give their full effort, just as Jacob did. This principle applies to all professions—upholding integrity and effort in our work is a core Jewish value.