Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does Genesis 12:20 mean?
A: Genesis 12:20 describes how Pharaoh, after realizing that Sarah was Avraham's wife (not his sister as initially thought), commanded his men to escort Avraham, his wife Sarah, and all his possessions out of Egypt safely. According to Rashi, this shows that Pharaoh wanted to ensure Avraham left without any harm, as he feared divine punishment after the plagues that struck his household (Rashi on Genesis 12:17).
Q: Why did Pharaoh send Avraham away with all his possessions?
A: Pharaoh sent Avraham away with all his possessions because he recognized that Avraham was under divine protection. The Midrash explains that Pharaoh saw the miracles and plagues that occurred when he took Sarah, and he wanted to avoid further punishment (Bereishit Rabbah 41:2). Additionally, Ramban notes that this was a sign of respect, ensuring Avraham left with dignity and without loss.
Q: What lesson can we learn from Genesis 12:20?
A: From Genesis 12:20, we learn that Hashem protects those who are righteous, even in difficult situations. Avraham faced danger in Egypt, but through divine intervention, he and Sarah were saved and even left with greater wealth. The Talmud (Berachot 5a) teaches that hardships faced by the righteous are ultimately for their benefit, as seen here with Avraham's increased possessions.
Q: How does this verse relate to Jewish history?
A: This verse sets a precedent for how Jewish leaders are treated by foreign rulers. Just as Pharaoh ultimately honored Avraham despite initial conflict, Jewish history shows that even in exile, Hashem ensures the protection and dignity of His people. The Rambam (Hilchot Melachim 10:12) later discusses how non-Jewish rulers must treat Jews justly, reflecting this biblical principle.
Q: Why is Avraham's departure from Egypt significant?
A: Avraham's departure from Egypt is significant because it marks the first exile and redemption in Jewish history. The Midrash (Bereishit Rabbah 40:6) compares this event to future exiles, teaching that just as Avraham left Egypt with wealth, so too would the Jewish people later leave Egypt with great possessions (Exodus 12:36). This foreshadows the pattern of divine salvation for the Jewish people.
Context in the Torah
This verse (Bereshit 12:20) concludes the episode where Pharaoh takes Sarai into his household after Avram (not yet called Avraham) presents her as his sister. When Hashem afflicts Pharaoh and his household with plagues, Pharaoh realizes the truth and confronts Avram. Here, Pharaoh commands his men to send Avram away with his wife and all his possessions.
Rashi's Commentary
Rashi explains that Pharaoh commanded his men "concerning him" (עָלָיו) to escort Avram out of Egypt safely, ensuring no one would harm him. This demonstrates that Pharaoh recognized Avram's divine protection and sought to avoid further punishment. Rashi also notes that Pharaoh returned everything that belonged to Avram, including the gifts he had given for Sarai, indicating complete restitution.
Rambam's Perspective
Rambam (Hilchot Melachim 9:1) discusses how gentile rulers must recognize the sanctity of the Jewish people. Here, Pharaoh acknowledges Avram's unique relationship with Hashem and acts with deference, setting a precedent for how nations should treat the descendants of Avraham.
Midrashic Insights
Halachic Implications
The Gemara (Sanhedrin 56a) derives from this episode that gentiles are obligated in the Noahide laws, including the prohibition of theft. Pharaoh's return of all possessions underscores the universal moral imperative to rectify wrongdoing.
Symbolism and Lessons
This verse teaches: