Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 49:9 mean when it calls Yehuda a 'lion’s whelp'?
A: The verse compares Yehuda (Judah) to a young lion ('gur aryeh') to symbolize strength, leadership, and royalty. Rashi explains that just as a lion is the king of beasts, Yehuda's descendants would become kings (like David and the future Messiah). This metaphor highlights Yehuda's future role as the leading tribe of Israel.
Q: Why is Yehuda compared to a lion in this verse?
A: Yehuda is compared to a lion because of his bravery and leadership qualities. The Midrash (Bereshit Rabbah 98:6) connects this to Yehuda's earlier actions, like taking responsibility for his brother Binyamin (Genesis 44:18-34). The lion imagery also foreshadows the Davidic dynasty, which would come from the tribe of Yehuda.
Q: What does 'who shall rouse him up' mean in Genesis 49:9?
A: The phrase 'who shall rouse him up' implies that once Yehuda (or his descendants) establishes his authority, no one will dare to challenge him. Ramban explains that this refers to the enduring strength of Yehuda's kingship—once it rises to power, it will remain unchallenged, like a lion that no one disturbs when it rests.
Q: How does Genesis 49:9 apply to Jewish tradition today?
A: This verse is seen as a prophecy about Jewish leadership and redemption. The lion symbolizes the Davidic line and the future Messiah, who will come from Yehuda's tribe. Today, Jews recite this verse in prayers and blessings (like the 'Arami Oved Avi' Passover Haggadah section) as a reminder of Yehuda's enduring legacy and the hope for ultimate redemption.
Q: Why is this blessing to Yehuda important in the Torah?
A: This blessing is crucial because it establishes Yehuda as the leading tribe of Israel. The Talmud (Sotah 36b) connects this to Yehuda’s repentance after the incident with Tamar, showing how his moral strength earned him this role. It also sets the foundation for the Davidic monarchy and the future Messianic era, central themes in Jewish tradition.
Overview of the Verse
The verse (Bereshit 49:9) is part of Yaakov Avinu's blessings to his sons before his passing. Here, Yehuda is compared to a lion, symbolizing strength, leadership, and royalty. The imagery of a lion reflects Yehuda's future role as the progenitor of the Davidic dynasty and the eventual Mashiach.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi explains that the phrase "גּוּר אַרְיֵה יְהוּדָה" ("Yehuda is a lion’s whelp") signifies Yehuda's courage and dominance, like a young lion that grows into a powerful king of beasts. The phrase "מִטֶּרֶף בְּנִי עָלִיתָ" ("from the prey, my son, thou art gone up") refers to Yehuda's repentance after the incident with Tamar (Bereshit 38:26), where he admitted his wrongdoing and elevated himself spiritually.
Rambam (Maimonides) on Yehuda's Leadership
In Hilchot Melachim, Rambam emphasizes that Yehuda's blessing establishes the eternal kingship of Israel within his tribe. The lion imagery underscores that true Jewish leadership must be fearless in upholding Torah and justice, just as a lion rules with authority.
Midrashic Interpretations
Symbolism of the Lioness
The phrase "וּכְלָבִיא" ("and as a lioness") highlights the protective and nurturing aspect of Yehuda's leadership. Just as a lioness fiercely guards her cubs, Yehuda's descendants (particularly King David and Mashiach) will safeguard the Jewish people.
Conclusion: Who Shall Rouse Him?
The final phrase "מִי יְקִימֶנּוּ" ("who shall rouse him?") signifies that once Yehuda's kingdom is established, no enemy will overcome it. This foreshadows the ultimate redemption, when the Davidic line will be restored permanently.