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Genesis 33:16 - Esav departs, destiny diverges

Genesis 33:16 - בראשית 33:16

Hebrew Text

וַיָּשָׁב בַּיּוֹם הַהוּא עֵשָׂו לְדַרְכּוֹ שֵׂעִירָה׃

English Translation

So ῾Esav returned that day on his way to Se῾ir.

Transliteration

Va'yashav ba'yom ha'hu Esav l'darko Se'ira.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיָּ֩שׇׁב֩ בַּיּ֨וֹם הַה֥וּא עֵשָׂ֛ו לְדַרְכּ֖וֹ שֵׂעִֽירָה׃
וַיָּ֩שׇׁב֩ בַּיּ֨וֹם הַה֥וּא עֵשָׂ֛ו לְדַרְכּ֖וֹ שֵׂעִֽירָה׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Context in the Torah Narrative

The verse (Bereshit 33:16) describes Esav's departure after his encounter with Yaakov. This occurs after their emotional reunion, where Yaakov had prepared extensively to appease Esav, fearing his brother's anger over the stolen blessings (Bereshit 32-33). The phrase "וַיָּשָׁב בַּיּוֹם הַהוּא עֵשָׂו לְדַרְכּוֹ שֵׂעִירָה" marks Esav's return to Se'ir, his homeland, rather than accompanying Yaakov to Canaan.

Rashi's Commentary

Rashi (Bereshit 33:16) explains that Esav's return to Se'ir signifies his separation from Yaakov's spiritual path. He notes that Esav went back to his wicked ways ("חוזר לדרכו הרעה"), as Se'ir represents his domain of impurity, contrasting with Yaakov's journey toward Eretz Yisrael, the land of holiness. Rashi also cites the Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 78:15), which states that Esav's departure fulfilled the divine plan, ensuring Yaakov could settle in Canaan without conflict.

Midrashic Insights

  • Bereshit Rabbah 78:14: The Midrash highlights the providential timing of Esav's departure, emphasizing that Hashem orchestrated events so Yaakov could establish his household in peace. Esav's return to Se'ir symbolizes the separation between the lineage of Yaakov (the future Bnei Yisrael) and Esav (the progenitor of Edom).
  • Sforno's Interpretation: Sforno (Bereshit 33:16) adds that Esav's return demonstrates his lack of interest in spiritual growth. Unlike Yaakov, who sought to dwell in the land of divine promise, Esav chose materialism and temporal power in Se'ir.

Halachic and Ethical Lessons

The Rambam (Hilchot De'ot 1:4-5) derives from this episode the importance of distancing oneself from negative influences. Yaakov's cautious approach toward Esav—offering gifts while maintaining separation—teaches the balance between peacemaking and preserving spiritual integrity. The verse thus serves as a model for navigating relationships with those whose values conflict with Torah ideals.

Symbolism of Se'ir

Se'ir, later associated with Edom, becomes a recurring symbol in Tanach for forces opposing Klal Yisrael (e.g., Ovadiah 1:21). The Talmud (Avodah Zarah 2b) links Esav's descendants to Rome and its spiritual heirs, framing this verse as the beginning of a historical tension resolved only in the messianic era.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does the verse 'So Esav returned that day on his way to Se῾ir' mean?
A: This verse (Genesis 33:16) describes Esav (Esau) returning to his home in Se῾ir after his encounter with Yaakov (Jacob). According to Rashi, this separation was significant because it marked the fulfillment of Yaakov's prayer to be saved from Esav's potential harm (Genesis 32:12). The Torah emphasizes that Esav went his own way, showing their paths diverged permanently.
Q: Why is it important that Esav went back to Se῾ir?
A: Esav's return to Se῾ir is important because it symbolizes the separation between the descendants of Yaakov (the Jewish people) and Esav (traditionally associated with other nations). The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 78:15) explains that this division was necessary to fulfill the divine plan, as Yaakov was chosen to continue the spiritual legacy of Avraham and Yitzchak.
Q: What can we learn from Esav and Yaakov parting ways?
A: We learn that sometimes separation is necessary for spiritual growth. The Rambam (Hilchot De'ot 6:1) teaches that distancing from negative influences is crucial for maintaining righteousness. Esav represented a different path, and Yaakov's ability to part ways peacefully (as seen earlier in the parsha) demonstrates wisdom in avoiding conflict while staying true to his mission.
Q: How does this verse apply to our lives today?
A: This verse reminds us that not all relationships or influences are beneficial for our spiritual growth. Just as Yaakov and Esav had to go their separate ways, we must sometimes distance ourselves from people or situations that conflict with our values. The Talmud (Pesachim 113b) advises keeping away from those who might lead us astray, emphasizing the importance of choosing the right environment.