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Genesis 44:25 - Father's plea for sustenance

Genesis 44:25 - בראשית 44:25

Hebrew Text

וַיֹּאמֶר אָבִינוּ שֻׁבוּ שִׁבְרוּ־לָנוּ מְעַט־אֹכֶל׃

English Translation

And our father said, Go back, and buy us a little food.

Transliteration

Vayomer avinu shuvu shivru-lanu me'at-ochel.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיֹּ֖אמֶר אָבִ֑ינוּ שֻׁ֖בוּ שִׁבְרוּ־לָ֥נוּ מְעַט־אֹֽכֶל׃
וַיֹּ֖אמֶר אָבִ֑ינוּ שֻׁ֖בוּ שִׁבְרוּ־לָ֥נוּ מְעַט־אֹֽכֶל׃

🎵 Listen to leining

Parasha Commentary

Context in the Torah Narrative

The verse (Bereshit 43:2) appears during the story of Yosef and his brothers, when Yaakov instructs his sons to return to Egypt to purchase food during the famine. This occurs after their first trip, during which Shimon was detained by Yosef (though they did not yet recognize him).

Rashi's Commentary

Rashi notes that Yaakov's instruction to "buy us a little food" (מְעַט־אֹכֶל) reflects his hesitation to send Binyamin with them, as he was only willing to risk a small purchase rather than a large quantity that would require all his sons to travel. This demonstrates Yaakov's protective nature toward Binyamin, the remaining son of Rachel.

Ibn Ezra's Insight

Ibn Ezra explains that the phrase "שֻׁבוּ שִׁבְרוּ" ("Go back, and buy") implies urgency due to the ongoing famine. The doubling of the verbs emphasizes the necessity of returning quickly to secure sustenance for the family.

Midrashic Interpretation (Bereshit Rabbah)

The Midrash highlights that Yaakov's wording "a little food" alludes to his spiritual sensitivity. Even in physical need, he sought only what was necessary, avoiding excess. This aligns with the principle of "צדיקים אוכלים לשובע נפשם" ("the righteous eat to satisfy their souls" - Mishlei 13:25), demonstrating moderation.

Rambam's Ethical Perspective

In light of Hilchot De'ot (Laws of Character Traits), Rambam would view this as an example of balanced conduct - recognizing the need for physical sustenance while maintaining trust in Hashem. Yaakov didn't hoard excessively despite the famine, showing proper bitachon (trust in Divine providence).

Chassidic Interpretation (Sefat Emet)

The Sefat Emet notes that "שִׁבְרוּ" (buy) shares a root with "שבר" (brokenness), hinting that this journey was meant to lead to the brothers' teshuvah (repentance) for selling Yosef. The "little food" represents the small opening needed for reconciliation and spiritual repair.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is not quoted in the Talmud.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does Genesis 44:25 mean when Jacob asks his sons to 'buy us a little food'?
A: In Genesis 44:25, Jacob (referred to as 'our father' by his sons) instructs his sons to return to Egypt to purchase more food during the famine. According to Rashi, this shows Jacob's cautious approach—he only asks for a small amount of food ('a little') because he was wary of sending Benjamin with them and wanted to minimize risk. The verse highlights Jacob's concern for his family's survival while balancing his fear of losing another son.
Q: Why did Jacob only ask for 'a little food' in Genesis 44:25?
A: Jacob requested only 'a little food' because he was hesitant to send his youngest son, Benjamin, to Egypt (as seen in earlier verses). The Midrash explains that Jacob wanted to avoid drawing too much attention or prolonging the journey, fearing danger. Additionally, Ramban suggests that Jacob trusted in divine providence and didn’t want to rely excessively on human efforts, asking only for minimal sustenance.
Q: How does Genesis 44:25 relate to trust in Hashem?
A: Jacob’s request for 'a little food' reflects a balance between hishtadlut (human effort) and bitachon (trust in Hashem). The Talmud (Berachot 35b) discusses how one must make reasonable efforts while relying on G-d’s blessing. Jacob took necessary steps to feed his family but avoided excessive dependence on Egyptian resources, showing his faith that Hashem would ultimately provide.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Jacob's instruction in Genesis 44:25?
A: This verse teaches the importance of caution and wisdom in decision-making. Jacob’s measured request—asking for only what was immediately necessary—demonstrates prudence, especially in uncertain situations. The Orchot Tzaddikim (a classical Jewish ethical work) highlights how Jacob’s restraint serves as a model for avoiding impulsive actions and carefully weighing risks.