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Genesis 35:21 - Jacob's journey toward destiny

Genesis 35:21 - בראשית 35:21

Hebrew Text

וַיִּסַּע יִשְׂרָאֵל וַיֵּט אָהֳלֹה מֵהָלְאָה לְמִגְדַּל־עֵדֶר׃

English Translation

And Yisra᾽el journeyed, and pitched his tent beyond the tower of ῾Eder.

Transliteration

Va'yisa Yisra'el va'yet ohalo me'hale'a le'migdal-eder.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיִּסַּ֖ע יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל וַיֵּ֣ט אׇֽהֳלֹ֔ה מֵהָ֖לְאָה לְמִגְדַּל־עֵֽדֶר׃
וַיִּסַּ֖ע יִשְׂרָאֵ֑ל וַיֵּ֣ט אׇֽהֳלֹ֔ה מֵהָ֖לְאָה לְמִגְדַּל־עֵֽדֶר׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Location and Significance of Migdal Eder

The verse states that Yaakov (referred to here as Yisrael) journeyed and pitched his tent beyond Migdal Eder (the Tower of Eder). Rashi (Bereshit 35:21) explains that Migdal Eder was near Beit Lechem (Bethlehem), based on the mention of this location in Micha 4:8. The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 81:5) connects this place to the future redemption, as it is associated with the coming of Mashiach.

Yaakov's Intentions in Pitching His Tent

Ramban (Bereshit 35:21) suggests that Yaakov chose to dwell near Migdal Eder to distance himself from the incident of Reuven and Bilhah (mentioned in the previous verse), seeking a place of purity and repentance. The Kli Yakar adds that Yaakov sought a place of spiritual elevation, as Migdal Eder (literally "Tower of the Flock") symbolizes vigilance and protection, much like a shepherd watches over his flock.

Symbolism of Migdal Eder

  • Shepherd's Watchtower: The Talmud (Sukkah 52b) alludes to Migdal Eder as a place from which one can oversee and protect, hinting at Yaakov's role as the shepherd of the Jewish people.
  • Connection to David and Mashiach: The Midrash (Pirkei D'Rabbi Eliezer 35) links Migdal Eder to King David's lineage (who was born in Beit Lechem) and the future redemption, as it is the place from which the ultimate redemption will be heralded.

Yaakov's Journey as a Metaphor

The Sforno (Bereshit 35:21) interprets Yaakov's movement as symbolic of the Jewish people's historical journey—constantly moving toward higher spiritual goals. By pitching his tent "beyond" Migdal Eder, Yaakov demonstrates his forward-looking vision, aligning with the destiny of his descendants.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does 'pitched his tent beyond the tower of Eder' mean in Genesis 35:21?
A: Rashi explains that the 'tower of Eder' refers to a place where shepherds would watch over their flocks (similar to Migdal Eder mentioned in Micah 4:8). Yaakov (Israel) deliberately camped near this place, showing his role as a shepherd and leader of his family, continuing the legacy of Avraham and Yitzchak who were also shepherds.
Q: Why is this verse important in the story of Yaakov?
A: This verse marks a transition in Yaakov's life after the death of Rachel (mentioned in the previous verse). The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 82:9) connects this location to future events—Migdal Eder is later associated with the Davidic dynasty (Micah 4:8), hinting at Yaakov's descendants' future kingship.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Yaakov journeying and pitching his tent?
A: The Rambam teaches that Yaakov's actions model resilience—even after personal tragedy (Rachel's death), he continued moving forward with purpose. Pitching his tent symbolizes establishing stability for his family, emphasizing the Jewish value of building a faithful household even during difficult times.
Q: How does the tower of Eder connect to Jewish tradition?
A: The Talmud (Chullin 60b) links Migdal Eder to the future redemption, where Hashem will reveal His presence. Yaakov's choice to camp here alludes to his awareness of Jewish destiny, as our forefathers often prophetically dwelled in places tied to later historic events.