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Genesis 32:28 - Israel's new divine identity revealed

Genesis 32:28 - בראשית 32:28

Hebrew Text

וַיֹּאמֶר אֵלָיו מַה־שְּׁמֶךָ וַיֹּאמֶר יַעֲקֹב׃

English Translation

And he said to him, What is thy name? And he said, Ya῾aqov.

Transliteration

Vayomer elav mah-shmecha vayomer Yaakov.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיֹּ֥אמֶר אֵלָ֖יו מַה־שְּׁמֶ֑ךָ וַיֹּ֖אמֶר יַעֲקֹֽב׃
וַיֹּ֥אמֶר אֵלָ֖יו מַה־שְּׁמֶ֑ךָ וַיֹּ֖אמֶר יַעֲקֹֽב׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

The Significance of Naming in the Torah

The verse (Genesis 32:28) records the pivotal moment when the angel asks Yaakov (Jacob) his name before bestowing upon him the new name "Yisrael." This exchange is laden with deep spiritual and symbolic meaning in Orthodox Jewish tradition.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Rabbi Shlomo Yitzchaki) comments that the angel asked for Yaakov's name not because he was unaware of it, but to prompt Yaakov to acknowledge his identity and past actions. This mirrors Yaakov's earlier encounter with his father Yitzchak (Genesis 27:18-19), where the question of identity played a central role.

The Dual Nature of Yaakov

The name Yaakov (יעקב) derives from the root עקב, meaning "heel," referencing how he held Esav's heel at birth (Genesis 25:26). The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 77:3) explains that this name reflects both:

  • His humble beginnings (holding the heel)
  • His potential for spiritual greatness (as the name would later be elevated to Yisrael)

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Maimonides) in Moreh Nevuchim (1:42) discusses how names in Torah often reflect essential characteristics. Yaakov's response with his given name demonstrates his truthfulness and acceptance of his current spiritual state before being ready to receive the elevated name Yisrael.

The Talmudic View

The Talmud (Chullin 91b) notes that this encounter occurred at night, symbolizing:

  • The darkness of exile that Yaakov's descendants would face
  • The eventual dawn of redemption represented by the name Yisrael

Kabbalistic Interpretation

According to the Zohar (1:170a), the angel's question served to awaken Yaakov's self-reflection about his spiritual mission. His simple response "Yaakov" demonstrated humility, making him worthy of receiving the higher name Yisrael.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Berakhot 7a
The verse is referenced in a discussion about the significance of names and their meanings, particularly in the context of Jacob's name change to Israel.
📖 Chullin 91b
The verse is cited in a discussion about the encounter between Jacob and the angel, focusing on the significance of names and identity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did the angel ask Yaakov (Jacob) for his name in Genesis 32:28?
A: According to Rashi, the angel asked Yaakov his name to acknowledge his current identity before giving him a new name, Yisrael (Israel). This signifies a spiritual transformation—from 'Yaakov,' representing his past struggles ('heel-grabber'), to 'Yisrael,' meaning 'one who prevails with G-d,' reflecting his elevated status after overcoming challenges.
Q: What is the significance of Yaakov's name in this verse?
A: Yaakov's name (meaning 'heel' or 'supplanter') recalls his birth holding Esav's heel (Genesis 25:26) and later obtaining the blessings. Here, the Midrash explains that the angel’s question highlights Yaakov’s readiness to transcend his past and embrace his new role as the father of the 12 tribes, symbolized by his new name, Yisrael.
Q: How does this verse connect to Jewish identity today?
A: The Vilna Gaon teaches that Yaakov’s name change teaches us about personal growth. Just as Yaakov evolved into Yisrael after struggling with the angel, Jews are called to overcome challenges and elevate their spiritual identity. This verse reminds us that our actions and perseverance shape our connection to G-d and our people.
Q: Why does the Torah mention this dialogue between Yaakov and the angel?
A: The Talmud (Chullin 91b) explains that this encounter symbolizes Yaakov’s victory in spiritual and physical struggles. By stating his name, Yaakov affirms his identity before receiving a blessing. This moment is pivotal—it shows that true growth comes from confronting challenges with faith, a lesson for all generations.