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Genesis 46:3 - Divine promise in Egyptian exile

Genesis 46:3 - בראשית 46:3

Hebrew Text

וַיֹּאמֶר אָנֹכִי הָאֵל אֱלֹהֵי אָבִיךָ אַל־תִּירָא מֵרְדָה מִצְרַיְמָה כִּי־לְגוֹי גָּדוֹל אֲשִׂימְךָ שָׁם׃

English Translation

And He said, I am God, the God of thy father: fear not to go down to Miżrayim; for I will there make of thee a great nation:

Transliteration

Va'yomer anochi ha'El Elohei avicha al tira mereda Mitzrayma ki l'goy gadol asimcha sham.

Hebrew Leining Text

וַיֹּ֕אמֶר אָנֹכִ֥י הָאֵ֖ל אֱלֹהֵ֣י אָבִ֑יךָ אַל־תִּירָא֙ מֵרְדָ֣ה מִצְרַ֔יְמָה כִּֽי־לְג֥וֹי גָּד֖וֹל אֲשִֽׂימְךָ֥ שָֽׁם׃
וַיֹּ֕אמֶר אָנֹכִ֥י הָאֵ֖ל אֱלֹהֵ֣י אָבִ֑יךָ אַל־תִּירָא֙ מֵרְדָ֣ה מִצְרַ֔יְמָה כִּֽי־לְג֥וֹי גָּד֖וֹל אֲשִֽׂימְךָ֥ שָֽׁם׃

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Parasha Commentary

Context of the Verse

This verse (Bereshit 46:3) records Hashem's reassurance to Yaakov Avinu as he prepares to descend to Mitzrayim (Egypt) with his family. Yaakov was hesitant due to concerns about leaving Eretz Yisrael, the spiritual implications of exile, and the future of his descendants. Hashem comforts him with a divine promise.

Rashi's Explanation

Rashi (Bereshit 46:3) explains that Hashem introduces Himself as "the God of thy father" to emphasize the continuity of the covenant established with Avraham and Yitzchak. This reassures Yaakov that the same divine protection granted to his forefathers will accompany him in Mitzrayim. Rashi also notes that the phrase "fear not" addresses Yaakov's three concerns:

  • Fear of descending from the spiritual heights of Eretz Yisrael.
  • Fear that his descendants might assimilate in a foreign land.
  • Fear that he or his family would not return to Eretz Yisrael.

Rambam's Perspective

Rambam (Moreh Nevuchim 3:50) highlights the significance of Hashem's promise to make Yaakov "a great nation" in Mitzrayim. This demonstrates that divine providence operates even in exile, ensuring the fulfillment of the covenant despite challenging circumstances. The descent to Mitzrayim was a necessary step in the formation of Klal Yisrael as a nation.

Midrashic Insights

The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 94:4) elaborates that Hashem's reassurance "I will go down with you" (implied in the verse) teaches that the Shechinah accompanies Israel even in exile. This concept is foundational to Jewish belief in divine providence throughout history. The Midrash also connects this verse to the future redemption, as the descent to Mitzrayim would ultimately lead to Yetziat Mitzrayim and the receiving of the Torah.

Chizkuni's Additional Notes

Chizkuni (Bereshit 46:3) points out that the phrase "I will make of thee a great nation there" specifically refers to Mitzrayim, indicating that the exile would be the crucible in which Bnei Yisrael would multiply and develop into a numerous people, fulfilling the promise to Avraham (Bereshit 15:5).

Halachic Implications

The Talmud (Pesachim 87b) derives from this verse that sometimes descent is necessary for ultimate ascent. This principle applies to both physical and spiritual exiles, teaching that temporary challenges may be part of a divine plan for greater growth. The Sages see this as a paradigm for Jewish history, where periods of exile ultimately lead to redemption.

📚 Talmud Citations

This verse is quoted in the Talmud.

📖 Berakhot 4a
The verse is referenced in a discussion about the timing of prayer and God's promises to the patriarchs.
📖 Megillah 14a
The verse is cited in a discussion about the significance of God's promises and the role of prophecy in guiding the Israelites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did God tell Jacob not to fear going down to Egypt?
A: God reassured Jacob (also called Israel) not to fear because He would be with him in Egypt and fulfill His promise to make his descendants into a great nation. Rashi explains that Jacob was afraid his family might assimilate or suffer in exile, but God promised protection and future redemption.
Q: What is the significance of God calling Himself 'the God of your father' in this verse?
A: By referring to Himself as 'the God of your father,' God reminded Jacob of the covenant He made with Abraham and Isaac, reinforcing that His promises would continue. The Ramban teaches that this was meant to strengthen Jacob's faith during this transition.
Q: How does this verse connect to the Jewish people's later slavery in Egypt?
A: This verse begins the story of the Jewish people's descent to Egypt, which eventually led to slavery. However, the Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah) explains that this was part of God's plan—the exile was necessary for the Jewish nation to grow and later experience the Exodus, a foundational event in Jewish history.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Jacob's trust in God's promise?
A: Jacob's willingness to follow God's command despite his fears teaches us the importance of bitachon (trust in God). The Talmud (Menachot 29b) highlights that even when facing uncertainty, we must remember that God guides Jewish history and fulfills His promises.
Q: Why did God say He would make Jacob a 'great nation' specifically in Egypt?
A: Egypt was a place where Jacob's family could multiply without interference, as the Sforno notes. Additionally, the exile and eventual redemption from Egypt would shape the Jewish people's identity, preparing them to receive the Torah at Mount Sinai.