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Genesis 33:6 - Servants honor Esau humbly

Genesis 33:6 - בראשית 33:6

Hebrew Text

וַתִּגַּשְׁןָ הַשְּׁפָחוֹת הֵנָּה וְיַלְדֵיהֶן וַתִּשְׁתַּחֲוֶיןָ׃

English Translation

Then the handmaidens came near, they and their children, and they bowed themselves.

Transliteration

Vatigashna hasfakhot hena veyaldeihen vatishtachaveina

Hebrew Leining Text

וַתִּגַּ֧שְׁןָ הַשְּׁפָח֛וֹת הֵ֥נָּה וְיַלְדֵיהֶ֖ן וַתִּֽשְׁתַּחֲוֶֽיןָ׃
וַתִּגַּ֧שְׁןָ הַשְּׁפָח֛וֹת הֵ֥נָּה וְיַלְדֵיהֶ֖ן וַתִּֽשְׁתַּחֲוֶֽיןָ׃

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Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

The verse (Bereshit 33:6) appears in the narrative of Yaakov's reunion with Esav after years of separation. The handmaidens (שְׁפָחוֹת) mentioned here are Bilhah and Zilpah, the maidservants of Rachel and Leah, who bore children to Yaakov. Their approach with their children precedes the approach of Leah and Rachel with their children, indicating a structured order of honor and humility.

Rashi's Commentary

Rashi explains that the handmaidens and their children approached first because Yaakov arranged his family in order of importance to protect them in case of conflict with Esav. The less esteemed members (the handmaidens and their children) were placed at the front, while the most cherished (Rachel and Yosef) were at the rear. This demonstrates Yaakov's wisdom in prioritizing safety while minimizing risk to his most beloved family members.

Symbolism of Bowing

The act of bowing (וַתִּשְׁתַּחֲוֶיןָ) signifies submission and respect. The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 78:8) notes that this gesture was not merely physical but reflected the handmaidens' acknowledgment of Esav's temporary dominance, in line with Yaakov's strategy of appeasement. However, it also hints at the future fulfillment of the prophecy that the elder (Esav) would serve the younger (Yaakov).

Rambam's Perspective on Hierarchy

Rambam (Hilchot Melachim 6:7) discusses the ethical implications of Yaakov's arrangement. While it may seem harsh to place the handmaidens and their children at greater risk, Rambam emphasizes that leaders must sometimes make difficult decisions for the greater good. Yaakov's actions were calculated to preserve the future of Klal Yisrael, ensuring the survival of the entire family.

Lessons in Humility and Strategy

  • Humility in Leadership: The handmaidens' willingness to bow and go first teaches the importance of humility and accepting one's role within a broader divine plan.
  • Strategic Wisdom: Yaakov's arrangement highlights the need for foresight and careful planning, even in moments of potential conflict.
  • Trust in Hashem: Despite the apparent danger, Yaakov's actions reflect his deep trust in Hashem's protection, as seen in his earlier prayer (Bereshit 32:12).

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Genesis 33:6 mean when it says the handmaidens and their children bowed?
A: In Genesis 33:6, the handmaidens (שְׁפָחוֹת) and their children bow before Esau as a sign of respect and submission. According to Rashi, this was part of Jacob's careful strategy to appease Esau by showing humility, ensuring peace between them after years of tension.
Q: Why did Jacob arrange the handmaidens and their children to approach Esau first?
A: Jacob arranged the handmaidens and their children to approach Esau first (as seen in Genesis 33:2-6) as a tactical measure. The Midrash explains that he placed those he was least emotionally attached to at the front, protecting his most beloved family (Rachel and Joseph) in case of conflict. This demonstrates Jacob’s wisdom in diplomacy and risk management.
Q: What lesson can we learn from the handmaidens bowing in Genesis 33:6?
A: The verse teaches the importance of humility and peaceful resolution. The Talmud (Berachot 7a) emphasizes that seeking peace, as Jacob did through gestures like bowing, is a high virtue in Judaism. Even those of lower status (handmaidens) played a role in reconciliation, showing that every act of respect matters.
Q: How does the bowing in Genesis 33:6 relate to Jewish values today?
A: The act of bowing reflects the Jewish value of 'darchei shalom' (ways of peace)—prioritizing harmony even in difficult relationships. Rambam (Hilchot De'ot 6:3) teaches that one should go out of their way to avoid conflict, just as Jacob modeled by having his household show deference to Esau.