Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 31:7 mean when it says 'your father has deceived me'?
A: This verse refers to Yaakov (Jacob) speaking to his wives, Rachel and Leah, about how their father, Lavan (Laban), repeatedly deceived him by changing his wages. According to Rashi, Lavan altered their agreement ten times to Yaakov's disadvantage, showing his dishonesty (Rashi on Genesis 31:7).
Q: Why did God not allow Lavan to hurt Yaakov despite the deception?
A: The verse teaches that Hashem protected Yaakov because of the righteousness of his forefathers and his own commitment to fulfilling God's will. The Ramban explains that divine providence ensured Lavan's schemes would not succeed, showing that God watches over those who follow His path (Ramban on Genesis 31:7).
Q: What lesson can we learn from Yaakov's statement in Genesis 31:7?
A: The verse teaches us to recognize God's protection even in difficult situations. Despite Lavan's repeated dishonesty, Yaakov acknowledges that Hashem prevented true harm. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah) highlights this as an example of trusting in divine justice even when facing unfair treatment.
Q: How does Genesis 31:7 apply to challenges in business or work today?
A: This verse reminds us that while people may act unfairly in financial matters, one should maintain integrity and trust in God's justice. The Talmud (Bava Metzia 83a) derives ethical business laws from Yaakov’s dealings with Lavan, emphasizing honesty and reliance on divine protection.
Q: Why does the verse mention 'ten times' specifically?
A: Rashi explains that 'ten times' is not necessarily literal but signifies numerous instances of deception (Rashi on Genesis 31:7). The number ten also alludes to completeness in Hebrew thought, meaning Lavan exhausted all possible ways to cheat Yaakov, yet God still protected him.
Context of the Verse
This verse (Genesis 31:7) is part of Yaakov's (Jacob's) speech to his wives, Rachel and Leah, explaining why he must leave their father Lavan's (Laban's) household. Yaakov recounts how Lavan repeatedly deceived him by changing his wages, yet Hashem protected him from harm.
Rashi's Explanation
Rashi explains that the phrase "וְהֶחֱלִף אֶת־מַשְׂכֻּרְתִּי עֲשֶׂרֶת מֹנִים" ("changed my wages ten times") refers to Lavan altering the terms of Yaakov's payment ten times. Rashi notes that this number is not necessarily literal but signifies multiple instances of deception (Rashi on Genesis 31:7).
Rambam's Perspective on Divine Protection
Rambam (Maimonides) emphasizes the concept of Divine Providence (Hashgacha Pratit), where Hashem intervenes to protect the righteous. Yaakov's statement "וְלֹא־נְתָנוֹ אֱלֹהִים לְהָרַע עִמָּדִי" ("but God did not allow him to hurt me") reflects this principle—despite Lavan's schemes, Hashem ensured Yaakov's well-being (Rambam, Moreh Nevuchim 3:17-18).
Midrashic Insights
Ibn Ezra's Literal Interpretation
Ibn Ezra takes a more literal approach, stating that "ten times" refers to ten specific instances where Lavan altered the agreed-upon terms of Yaakov's labor, switching between speckled and unspotted flocks to deprive Yaakov of his rightful earnings (Ibn Ezra on Genesis 31:7).
Halachic Implications
The Chofetz Chaim (Sefer Shemirat HaLashon) cites this verse to highlight the severity of deception in business dealings. Lavan's actions violate the prohibition of ona'ah (financial exploitation), underscoring the Torah's emphasis on honesty in labor agreements.