Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does 'El-elohe-yisra᾽el' mean in Genesis 33:20?
A: The phrase 'El-elohe-yisra᾽el' means 'God, the God of Israel.' Here, Yaakov (Jacob) builds an altar and gives it this name to acknowledge Hashem as the true God of Israel. Rashi explains that this was a declaration of gratitude after Yaakov safely returned to the Land of Canaan and reconciled with his brother Eisav (Esau).
Q: Why did Yaakov build an altar in Genesis 33:20?
A: Yaakov built the altar as an expression of thanks to Hashem for protecting him during his difficult journey and conflicts. The Midrash teaches that building an altar was a way for our forefathers to establish a connection with Hashem in key moments of their lives, marking divine kindness and commitment to serving Him.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Yaakov naming the altar 'El-elohe-yisra᾽el'?
A: We learn the importance of recognizing Hashem's role in our lives and publicly declaring our faith. By naming the altar 'God, the God of Israel,' Yaakov affirmed his belief that Hashem guided and protected him. This teaches us to acknowledge divine providence in both challenges and triumphs.
Q: How does Genesis 33:20 relate to Jewish practice today?
A: Just as Yaakov expressed gratitude through building an altar, Jews today show thanks to Hashem through prayer, blessings (brachot), and dedicating holy spaces (like synagogues). The Rambam teaches that recognizing Hashem's kindness is a foundation of Jewish faith, just as Yaakov did in this verse.
Q: Where exactly did Yaakov build this altar in Genesis 33:20?
A: The verse does not specify the exact location, but Rashi and other commentators explain that it was in the city of Shechem (mentioned earlier in the parsha). This area held significance as part of the Land of Israel promised to Avraham, Yitzchak, and Yaakov, making it a fitting place for an altar to Hashem.
The Altar and Its Naming
The verse states: "And he erected there an altar, and called it El-elohe-yisra᾽el" (Genesis 33:20). This act of building an altar and naming it is significant in the narrative of Yaakov Avinu (Jacob our forefather). Rashi explains that Yaakov established this altar in Shechem as an expression of gratitude to Hashem for protecting him from Esav (Esau) and for granting him peace upon his return to Eretz Yisrael (the Land of Israel). The naming of the altar as "El-elohe-yisra᾽el" ("God, the God of Israel") reflects Yaakov's acknowledgment of Hashem's providence in his life.
The Meaning of "El-elohe-yisra᾽el"
The name "El-elohe-yisra᾽el" carries deep theological significance. The Ramban (Nachmanides) notes that Yaakov, who had recently been renamed "Yisra᾽el" (Israel) by Hashem (Genesis 32:29), now refers to Hashem as "the God of Israel", signifying his personal relationship with the Divine. This name emphasizes that Hashem is not only the God of Avraham and Yitzchak but also the God of Yaakov—now Yisra᾽el—and his descendants.
Midrashic Insights
The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 79:7) elaborates that Yaakov's altar was a proclamation of monotheism in a land dominated by idolatry. By naming the altar in this way, Yaakov publicly affirmed his faith in Hashem as the sole God of Israel. The Sforno adds that this act was also a preparation for the future, as it sanctified the location for later generations who would dwell there.
Halachic and Symbolic Implications