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Genesis 32:24 - Jacob wrestles divine encounter alone

Genesis 32:24 - בראשית 32:24

Hebrew Text

וַיִּקָּחֵם וַיַּעֲבִרֵם אֶת־הַנָּחַל וַיַּעֲבֵר אֶת־אֲשֶׁר־לוֹ׃

English Translation

And he took them, and sent them over the wadi, and sent over that which he had.

Transliteration

Vayikakhem vaya'avirem et-hanachal vaya'aver et-asher-lo.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיִּ֨קָּחֵ֔ם וַיַּֽעֲבִרֵ֖ם אֶת־הַנָּ֑חַל וַֽיַּעֲבֵ֖ר אֶת־אֲשֶׁר־לֽוֹ׃
וַיִּ֨קָּחֵ֔ם וַיַּֽעֲבִרֵ֖ם אֶת־הַנָּ֑חַל וַֽיַּעֲבֵ֖ר אֶת־אֲשֶׁר־לֽוֹ׃

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Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

The verse (Bereshit 32:24) describes Yaakov Avinu's actions before his encounter with the angel of Esav. After preparing gifts for Esav, Yaakov takes his family and possessions across the Nachal Yabbok (the wadi or stream). This moment is pivotal as it precedes his wrestling with the angel and receiving the name Yisrael.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Bereshit 32:24) explains that Yaakov first took his family and possessions across the stream, then returned to retrieve small jars he had forgotten—demonstrating his righteousness in valuing even seemingly insignificant possessions (based on Chullin 91a). This act of returning for the jars led to his encounter with the angel.

Midrashic Insights

  • Bereishit Rabbah (77:2): The "Nachal Yabbok" symbolizes the spiritual challenges Yaakov faced. Crossing it represents his complete devotion to Hashem, even in times of danger.
  • Chullin 91a: The small jars teach that tzaddikim are careful with their possessions, as they avoid theft or waste—fulfilling "V'hit'halachta b'drachav" (walking in Hashem's ways).

Rambam's Perspective

In Moreh Nevuchim (3:24), Rambam interprets Yaakov's actions as a model of strategic preparation (hishtadlut). By securing his family and possessions first, Yaakov demonstrates the balance between trust in Hashem and practical effort in facing challenges.

Symbolism of the Crossing

The Or HaChaim (Bereshit 32:24) notes that Yaakov's crossing represents his separation from materialism—"that which he had" (asher lo)—to focus entirely on spiritual survival. This mirrors Avraham's journey in Lech Lecha, where physical movement parallels spiritual growth.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is happening in Genesis 32:24?
A: In Genesis 32:24, Yaakov (Jacob) is preparing to meet his brother Esav (Esau) after many years of separation. The verse describes how Yaakov took his family and possessions and sent them across the wadi (a small river or stream). According to Rashi, this was a strategic move to protect his family in case Esav attacked.
Q: Why did Yaakov send his family across the wadi?
A: Yaakov sent his family across the wadi as a precautionary measure. The Midrash explains that he was concerned about a potential confrontation with Esav and wanted to ensure their safety. By dividing his camp, he followed a wise strategy to protect his loved ones, as mentioned in Genesis 32:8-9.
Q: What can we learn from Yaakov's actions in this verse?
A: From Yaakov's actions, we learn the importance of preparation and wisdom in facing challenges. The Rambam teaches that taking reasonable precautions (hishtadlut) is a Jewish value, as we must make efforts while also trusting in Hashem. Yaakov didn't rely on miracles; he took practical steps to protect his family.
Q: What does the wadi symbolize in this verse?
A: The wadi (נַחַל) can symbolize a transition or test. The Talmud (Chullin 91a) discusses how Yaakov's crossing the wadi represented his spiritual and physical struggles before meeting Esav. It teaches that overcoming obstacles often requires both faith and action.
Q: How does this verse connect to Yaakov's wrestling with the angel later in the parsha?
A: This verse sets the stage for Yaakov's encounter with the angel (Genesis 32:25). Rashi explains that after ensuring his family's safety, Yaakov returned alone to retrieve small jars—teaching the value of not wasting even small possessions. This humility and attentiveness prepared him for the spiritual struggle that followed.